Assam Tea and Darjeeling Tea are two of the most popular teas in the world due to their aromas and unique flavors. They are both produced in India, in the regions of Assam and Darjeeling, and are considered to be of the highest quality. While they share some similarities in taste, there are many differences between the two teas.
Key Takeaways
- Assam tea is grown on lowlands, while Darjeeling tea is grown on highlands.
- Darjeeling tea is considered to have a higher quality, flavor, aroma, and taste, and is more expensive than Assam tea.
- An overwhelming majority of tea comes from Assam, while Darjeeling contributes a minuscule amount of tea.
Assam tea is cultivated on lowlands, while Darjeeling tea is grown on highlands. The foothills of the Himalayas in Darjeeling provide a unique flavor to the tea, which is why it is more expensive and highly sought after by the western world. The climate in Assam is ideal for tea cultivation, with most of the tea in India being produced in this region.
Darjeeling tea has a high demand, but low quantity due to the smaller area in which it is grown and the harsher climate. The higher the plantation, the more concentrated the flavor of Darjeeling tea, but other factors such as wind, clouds, soil quality, and sunshine also contribute to its unique flavor.
The harvesting time of Assam tea is longer than that of Darjeeling tea, with two harvests of Assam tea: the first flush in late March or early April, and the second flush in September. The second flush is considered superior and sold at higher prices due to its sweeter, full-bodied flavor. Assam tea leaves are darker and glossier than Darjeeling tea leaves.
