Should You Add Milk to Darjeeling Tea?

Darjeeling tea is a popular tea variety that has sparked a common question among tea drinkers: should milk be added to it? The answer, however, is not a simple one. While some tea drinkers enjoy their tea with milk, others argue that adding milk takes away from the tea’s natural flavors and aromas.

According to statistics, approximately 98% of tea drinkers add milk to their tea. This number is significant, considering that over 3 billion cups of tea are consumed daily. While some tea enthusiasts and bloggers may criticize adding milk to tea, it is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

When it comes to Darjeeling tea, the answer to whether or not to add milk depends on several factors. Darjeeling tea is known for its three main flushes: the first flush, produced in the spring, the second flush, produced in the summer, and the autumn flush. The Monsoon flush, which occurs between the second and autumn flushes, is less popular.

First flush Darjeeling tea is mild and has floral characteristics, making it best enjoyed without milk. However, some tea drinkers may choose to add sugar to this tea. The second flush, on the other hand, has a bolder and fuller-bodied liquor, with a slightly astringent taste. While milk may be added to the second flush tea, purists recommend drinking it without milk. Finally, the autumn flush Darjeeling tea has a bolder liquor color and is preferred by those who enjoy their tea with milk.

Ultimately, the decision to add milk to Darjeeling tea is a personal one. As with any tea, it is important to experiment and find the right balance of flavors that suits individual preferences. Whether one prefers tea with or without milk, the most important thing is to savor each sip and enjoy the unique and exquisite flavors of Darjeeling tea.