Himalayan Summer • Second Flush | Muscatel Reserve

Description

The Grand Vintage of the Himalayas

If the spring harvest is the “awakening,” the Himalayan Summer • Second Flush is the “maturity.” Harvested during the warm, sun-soaked months of June and July, these leaves are transformed by the intense mountain sun. This is widely considered the most prestigious harvest for black tea connoisseurs in Dubai and Europe, prized for a unique flavor profile that can only be achieved in the high-altitude terroir of the Himalayas.

The Legendary Muscatel Character

The Second Flush is world-renowned for its “Muscatel” character—a natural sweetness that resembles sun-ripened muscat grapes and dark honey. When brewed, the tea produces a brilliant, sparkling amber liquor. The flavor is complex and multi-layered: it begins with a floral top note, moves into a rich body of stone fruits and raisins, and finishes with a subtle, spicy musk. It is a bold, sophisticated tea with significantly more “fire” and body than the delicate spring varieties.

Traceability and Origin

Our Second Flush is hand-picked only from the top-most “two leaves and a bud” to ensure the highest concentration of aromatic oils.

• Estate: High-Altitude Summer Gardens

• Altitude: 1,900m – 2,200m

• Process: Hard withered and fully oxidized to develop the fruity esters.

• Terroir: Intense solar radiation and mineral-rich mountain soil.

• Season: Second Flush (Summer Peak).

The Connoisseur’s Ritual

To appreciate the complex grape-like notes of the Second Flush, use water at 95°C. We recommend a “Gongfu” style steep (short, multiple infusions) or a standard 3.5-minute steep. This tea is the perfect accompaniment to fine desserts, afternoon pastries, or enjoyed on its own as a celebratory midday ritual.

Discover the Science of Muscatel or browse our Limited Harvests.