Are You Brewing Darjeeling Tea the Wrong Way? Let’s Fix That

Darjeeling Tea. Elegant, floral, and often called the “Champagne of Teas.”

But here’s the real question:
Are you brewing it the right way… or just dunking a bag and hoping for the best?

If you’ve ever sipped Darjeeling and thought, “Is this it?”, there’s a good chance the problem isn’t the tea—it’s the brew.

Let’s fix that.

First: Darjeeling Isn’t Like Other Teas

Most people treat Darjeeling like a typical black tea.
Boil the water, drop in the tea, and let it sit for five minutes.

Wrong move.

Darjeeling is delicate.
It’s not meant to be over-steeped or drowned in milk.
It needs respect—and the right temperature.

Mistake #1: Using Boiling Water

The fix:
Let your boiled water cool for 1–2 minutes before pouring.
Ideal temperature? 85°C to 90°C (Not piping hot!).

Why?
Because boiling water scorches the leaves, ruining Darjeeling’s floral notes and turning it bitter.

Mistake #2: Steeping It Too Long (Or Too Short)

The fix:
Steep it for 3 to 4 minutes—no more, no less.
This gives just enough time for the complex flavors to develop without going tannic.

Pro tip:
Use a timer.
One minute too long, and your tea turns from fragrant to flat.

Mistake #3: Using Too Much (or Too Little) Tea

The fix:
Use 1 heaped teaspoon (about 2.5 grams) of loose-leaf Darjeeling per cup (around 200 ml).
For a stronger taste? Add a little more—but don’t overdo it.

Bonus Tips for Brewing Like a Pro:

• Skip the milk: Darjeeling is best enjoyed without milk. Add honey or lemon if you like—but try it pure first.
• Use spring or filtered water for the best flavor. Tap water can dull the delicate notes.
• Warm your teacup beforehand for a better tasting experience.

Still Using Tea Bags?

Nothing wrong with that.
But if you want to experience Darjeeling in its full glory, switch to loose-leaf.
You’ll instantly taste the difference.

So… What Should It Taste Like?

Done right, a cup of Darjeeling tea should feel like:

• A light floral breeze
• Hints of muscatel grapes
• A smooth, clean finish

In short?
It’s less punchy, more poetic.

Ready to Brew It Right?

Darjeeling isn’t just tea—it’s tradition, terroir, and taste in one elegant cup.

Now that you know what to fix, give it another try.
Same tea. Whole new experience.