First Bloom

First bloom ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️has left me speechless. I'm convinced that I've discovered my new favorite first flush Darjeeling. The ideal balance of floral and sweetness makes it a true masterpiece.

This is a truly delightful darjeeling. This is a soft, almost creamy like tea with a subtle fruitiness (think stone fruit here, not anything heavy) and floral tint. I thoroughly enjoyed this tea—it was light and lovely on a hot summer’s morning.

I brewed this gongfu style, so I could get the most out of my sample. I used the recommended brewing temperature and time—175 F, for 3 minutes—and was able to get several infusions out of the tea. The tea became so creamy and fruity by the time my last infusion finished.

What a delightful tea!

There's something special about that today, it's the First Bloom tea from Margaret's Hope Tea Estate. It’s such a lovely cup full of crisp and green fruitiness. In 2006, I first tasted Margaret's Hope Tea and it has been my favorite ever since. Thanks to Brook37 Tea Atelier for making this tea available!

When I was just discovering Darjeeling for the first time, the very first one I tried happened to be Margaret’s Hope. From the moment I tried it, I was hooked.

So when I heard that Brook37 was able to source a first flush Darjeeling for 2025 from none other than Margaret’s Hope Tea Estate in Darjeeling, of course I was looking forward to “re-experiencing the magic” so to speak.

First Bloom is a moonlit reserve Darjeeling which is hand-harvested from these renowned tea gardens. Said to deliver a delicate and silky light bodied infusion.

First Flush Darjeeling teas are generally in much lighter in taste but stronger in aroma than a Second Flush. While second flush has a stronger in taste with good aroma. Each has their fans that appreciate the different aspects between the two. I always like both but like the delicate bright floral notes of a First Flush.

It’s a rare treat to experience them, so when I am able to enjoy them, I find my tea time has an extra bit of elegance to it.

First Flush Margaret's Hope leaves are typically processed with minimal oxidation to preserve their delicate character. Its leaves are often a lighter color and more delicate in nature. Much as the appearance First Bloom had from the packet. And the aroma is heavenly. I immediately noticed the floral bloom with delicate clean scent.

I prepared mine in 175 degree water and let it steep for about 4 minutes, resulting in a pale yellow liquor. Very pleasing to the eye.

Taste wise, this blend is everything I could have possibly imagined and more. It clearly defines itself as the first essence of spring with its spring blooms, with hints of jasmine, and apricot notes. It is delicate and crisp with a clean floral flavor. It definitely has no harsh bitterness.

This truly is an elegant and beautiful blend and lends itself to clearly defining why Darjeeling is known as the champagne of teas.

It is elegance at its best.

This tea was so good! I used 2 tsp of tea and steeped at 175° for 3 minutes. It brewed a really light yellow color. Very delicate, soft floral notes. So refreshing. Perfect cup of tea to start the day! I will definitely have to get more of this tea, absolutely delicious!