The high-elevation organic garden of Jun Chiyabari, in eastern Nepal, has been making delicious, unusual teas for over two decades. Bordered by China and India, orthodox tea production in the mountainous country is relatively new; this innovative farm draws from the complete spectrum of traditional tea making, utilizing cultivars from nearby Darjeeling and processing techniques from Taiwan and Japan. This exquisite lot of its white tea is comprised of large buds and top leaf sets, harvested by hand. A simple process of air drying allows minimal oxidation, preserving the fresh, soft nature of the leaves alongside a floral and vegetal fragrance. Light spice notes of white pepper and citrus round out the cup, which offers a clarifying sip at any time of day. Steep with water below boiling—around 185°F—to maintain this tea’s natural sweetness, and try multiple infusions. Try several infusions, increasing the steeping time on each subsequent round. Country: NepalRegion: DhankutaTasting Notes: asparagus, white pepper, roundHarvest Season: Fall 2024
