Good morning, dear tea friends! Spring is in full bloom here in my little corner of the world. I love to watch the landscape come alive with color – soft yellow greens, vibrant fuschia, cheery yellows, and delicate petal whites, to name a few. One of my favorite springtime colors is the glowing golden of a first flush Darjeeling, and that’s what’s in my cup this morning. This lovely selection is called Margaret’s Hope FTGFOP Tippy Cl. First Flush.

I’ve read that when the Margaret’s Hope Estate was first set up in the 1830s, it was called Bara Ringtong. It was later renamed Margaret’s Hope after the daughter of one of the managers in the early 20th century, Mr Bagdon. His daughter, Margaret, fell in love with the beautiful estate but, on a trip back to England, fell ill and died so she was never able to return and live there as she wanted to. A tragic story but a lovely tribute. It’s so hard to lose someone you love.

I steeped the leaves for 3 minutes in water just under the boiling point.

The gorgeous new spring growth brews a tea with a fresh flowery fragrance and flavor.

Light citrus hints play along the edges of the aroma and the mouth feel is smooth and buttery. A vegetal tang lingers in the finish. I could drink this tea all day long.

Now that I’m well caffeinated, it’s time for a walk in the spring sunshine. As always, thanks for stopping by and sharing a cuppa with me. See you in two weeks!