Upper Namring - Darjeeling First Flush Loose Leaf Tea

`Sourced from one of Darjeeling’s most historic and prestigious estates, Upper Namring First Flush is a refined, single‑origin loose leaf tea harvested at the very start of the Himalayan spring. Light, aromatic and beautifully balanced, this early flush Darjeeling captures the freshness of new growth and the distinctive character of high‑altitude terroir, making it an ideal choice for a bright morning or mid‑morning cup. 

What is Upper Namring Tea? 

Upper Namring Tea comes from the highest and most prized section of the renowned Namring Tea Estate, established in 1855 and the second largest Tea estate of Darjeeling. Picked during the first flush, when the tea bushes produce their earliest spring shoots, this tea is crafted using traditional orthodox methods to preserve delicacy, aroma and clarity. Unlike mass‑market tea bags, this is a whole‑leaf Darjeeling, designed to fully express origin, seasonality and craftsmanship in every infusion. 

Tea Highlights 

• Single‑estate Upper Namring Darjeeling First Flush 
• Loose leaf tea crafted from early spring harvest 
• Grown at high altitude in the Teesta Valley 
• Elegant, silvery‑tipped whole leaves 
• Naturally light, fresh and aromatic profile 
• Classic muscatel character with refined fruit notes 

Tasting Notes 

Appearance: Fine, slender, twisted leaves in celadon green hues, highlighted with silvery tips and a pale golden liquor 
Aroma: Fragrant and inviting with notes of fresh brioche, spring flowers and ripe stone fruit. 
Flavour: Bright and precise, opening with muscatel grape before revealing gentle sweetness and fresh vegetal tones. 
Finish: Clean, lightly woody and refreshing, with a lingering floral lift. 

Ingredients 

Single‑origin loose leaf black tea 

How to Brew? 

You can discover our in depth Darjeeling brewing guide to learn how to brew the perfect cup of tea. Use these quick steps to brew the perfect cup:  

Brew 2–2.5g of tea (1–2 teaspoons) per cup in freshly drawn water at 85–90°C for around 3-4 minutes, adjusting infusion time to suit your preference. 

Why Choose This Tea? 

Upper Namring First Flush is best enjoyed as loose leaf rather than tea bags, allowing the whole leaves to unfurl fully and release their nuanced aromas and layered flavours. This approach preserves the delicacy and clarity that First Flush Darjeeling is celebrated for, offering a markedly more expressive cup than compressed or finely cut teas. 

Production & Leaf Grades 

This First Flush Darjeeling is produced using orthodox methods from carefully selected early spring leafsets. A blend of China varietals, clonal bushes and Assam hybrids contributes finesse, aroma and structure, while high elevation, cool temperatures and pure Himalayan water help maintain freshness and aromatic complexity. 

Wellbeing & Potential Health Benefits 

As a high‑quality black tea, Upper Namring naturally contains polyphenols such as theaflavins and thearubigins, alongside L‑theanine and moderate caffeine. Research suggests that regular consumption of black tea may support cardiovascular health, antioxidant activity and mental alertness when enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle. 

Origin & Craftsmanship 

The Namring Tea Estate lies in the eastern Darjeeling district, overlooking the Teesta Valley. Namring Tea Estate, the second largest in Darjeeling, takes its name from a Lapcha priest, or Lama, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage. Established in 1855, it is one of Darjeeling’s oldest and largest estates, divided into Upper and Lower sections, despite being among the oldest and largest tea factories in Darjeeling, it has been consistently modernised with new technology. Upper Namring sits at higher elevations, where cooler temperatures, abundant sunlight and mineral‑rich soils encourage slow leaf development and refined flavour expression, located at an elevation of about 3,000 feet above sea level, the Namring tea factory supports plantations that reach heights of up to 5,500 feet. 

If You Love This Darjeeling First Flush 

The spring release of Darjeeling first flushes is one of the most celebrated moments in the Indian tea calendar. Our tea tasters have sourced some of the district's finest for you to explore alongside the Upper Namring including, giddapahar, Okayti, Glenburn White Moonshine and Jungpana. 

Can't decide which Darjeeling to choose? Browse our full Darjeeling First Flush collection to find your perfect spring brew. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Upper Namring First Flush available all year round?

Upper Namring First Flush is a seasonal tea harvested during the early spring first flush period in Darjeeling. Quantities are limited each year, so availability depends on the harvest and current stock levels.

What does Upper Namring First Flush taste like?

Upper Namring offers a bright, delicate and aromatic cup with classic muscatel grape notes, gentle floral tones and a clean, refreshing finish. It is lighter and more refined than many traditional black teas.

Why is Upper Namring considered a premium Darjeeling tea?

Upper Namring comes from the highest and most prized section of the historic Namring Tea Estate. Its high-altitude growing conditions, careful first flush plucking and orthodox whole-leaf production create a tea valued for elegance, freshness and complexity.