India is the world's second-largest tea producer, but statistics alone do not capture what makes Indian tea remarkable. It is the diversity — the sheer range of flavour, character, and tradition across a subcontinent — that sets Indian tea apart.
Assam
The Brahmaputra valley in northeastern India is the heartland of Indian tea. Assam produces bold, malty, full-bodied teas that form the base of most Indian chai blends and many English breakfast teas. The climate is hot and humid, the soil rich and alluvial — conditions that produce a robust, deeply flavoured leaf.
Assam CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) is the everyday workhorse of Indian tea. It brews quickly, stands up to milk and sugar, and delivers a satisfying punch. But Assam also produces exceptional orthodox whole-leaf teas, particularly from the second flush harvest in June and July.
Darjeeling
High in the eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling's gardens produce India's most celebrated teas. The cool altitude, misty mornings, and unique soil create a cup that is light, complex, and aromatic — often described with wine terminology like "muscatel," "floral," and "bright."
Darjeeling is best appreciated without milk, brewed at a lower temperature than Assam, and savoured slowly. It is a tea for contemplation rather than routine.
Nilgiri
The Blue Mountains of South India produce teas that are fragrant, brisk, and beautifully balanced. Nilgiri teas are often described as "self-drinking" — they do not need blending to produce a satisfying cup. They work well both hot and iced, making them versatile year-round.
Dooars and Terai
Nestled between Assam and Darjeeling, the Dooars and Terai regions produce teas that bridge the gap between the two. Lighter than Assam, more robust than Darjeeling, Dooars teas offer a smooth, bright liquor with a naturally sweet finish. They are excellent value and increasingly appreciated by discerning drinkers.
Kangra
A lesser-known gem in Himachal Pradesh, Kangra produces small quantities of green and black tea with a distinctive character — slightly woody, with a clean finish. Kangra tea remains a well-kept secret, but those who discover it rarely forget it.
Each of these regions contributes something unique to the tapestry of Indian tea. Understanding where your tea comes from is the first step toward appreciating what makes it special.