Oct 2024: Assam Teas With a Twist – Herbs & Kettles

This month’s box celebrates the essence of Assam and the innovative small farmers we proudly collaborate with. Nestled along the mighty Brahmaputra River, with low-altitude plains and a tropical climate, Assam produces some of the world's boldest and most malty teas. The whole-leaf Assam teas we've curated are among the region’s finest, and we are thrilled to share them with you. The journey begins with an exceptional Assam Golden Reserve Tea followed by two innovative blends – the Assam GABA Tea and the Assam Smoked Melody Tea.

Assam Golden Reserve

Assam Golden Reserve

Crafted by Sailen Phulkan in June 2024, this whole-leaf tea offers a luxurious mouthfeel, reminiscent of fine brandy. The tea’s smooth, low-astringency profile is enriched with notes of malt, burnt sugar, biscuits, raisins, bourbon, cocoa, and oak. The second steep unfurls delicate hints of wildflower honey, while the third reveals floral nuances of yellow roses and daffodils.

Our relationship with the farmer Mr. Phulkan began in March 2023 during a visit to his farmhouse, where we experienced the warmth of his family and their way of life. Sailen, who farms organically without pesticides, inherited intercropping techniques from his late father to manage pests naturally. With just 8 acres, Mr. Phulkan produces remarkable teas. Over a meal of tea leaf pakoras, pitha, dal, rice, and vegetables, we connected with his family and were inspired by his passion. We are thrilled to feature this special summer batch he made exclusively for the Fine Tea Club.

Steeping Instructions:

  • Gongfu: 5 g in 4 fl-oz water at 198°F. First steep: 20 sec; second: 15 sec; third: 20 sec.
  • Western: 6 g in 12 fl-oz water at 198°F for 2-3 min. Milk optional.
Assam Golden Reserve
Assam Golden Reserve Assam Golden Reserve


Assam GABA Tea

Assam GABA Tea

This 2024 Assam GABA Tea is a standout in our collection, and if you love it, more is available online. To enhance your tasting experience, we’ve included GABA teas from 2022 and 2023—much like comparing fine wine vintages. GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) occurs naturally in this tea, thanks to its anaerobic processing in nitrogen-rich environments. Known to calm the mind and alleviate anxiety, GABA offers a soothing tea experience.

Our tea producer Mr. Jha ingeniously use fermentation drums to create the perfect environment for GABA production. Unlike lighter GABA oolongs, this Assam version boasts a bold, jammy profile with notes of plum jam, golden raspberries, and honeyed oats, rounded off by a savory undertone of melted bitter chocolate.

Steeping Instructions:

  • Gongfu: 6 g in 4 fl-oz water at 195°F. Steep each infusion for 25 sec.
  • Western: 6 g in 12 fl-oz water at 195°F for 2-3 min. Milk optional.
Assam GABA Tea


Assam Smoked Melody Tea

Assam Smoked Melody Tea

Imagine an Assam tea infused with the essence of oak smoke—bold, malty, and evocative of cozy campfires and s’mores. The tea’s aroma carries hints of graham crackers, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallow, balanced by an earthy undertone of burnt wood.

Our Assam Smoked Melody is a customer-favorite and is available online for those who can't get enough of its smoky charm. With each sip, you’ll enjoy layers of malt and cocoa, making it a perfect tea to enjoy during crisp autumn evenings.

Steeping Instructions:

  • Gongfu: 5 g in 4 fl-oz water at 205°F. First steep: 15 sec; second: 15 sec; third: 25 sec.
  • Western: 6 g in 12 fl-oz water at 205°F for 2-3 min. Milk optional.
Assam Smoked Melody Tea

We hope you enjoy this curated selection of Assam teas, each crafted with passion and expertise. Let these teas transport you to the lush landscapes of Assam with every sip!

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