Welcome to Makaibari Tea Estate, where every cup of tea tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and excellence. Join us on a journey through the intricate process of transforming Makaibari tea leaves into the finest Darjeeling brews, from the lush fields of our estate to your cup of steaming goodness.
Harvesting the Freshest Leaves
Harvesting tea leaves is similar to picking leaves from any other plant. It requires skill, especially for prized teas like Bai Mu Dan or Silver Tips Imperial. To gather these high-quality tea leaves, the top three leaves of the tea plant are carefully plucked because they are the sweetest and most nutritious. First, the top three leaves are identified, and then the stem of the tea plant is held a few millimeters below the third leaf. They are gently pulled upward until a small pop sound is heard, and the leaf is separated. Although this method of harvesting takes a lot of time, it results in excellent-quality tea.
Embracing Biodynamic Practices
Our commitment to sustainability and quality extends to our cultivation methods. Through biodynamic farming techniques, we nurture the soil and protect the ecosystem, allowing our Makaibari tea bushes to thrive and produce leaves of exceptional quality. By harnessing the natural rhythms of the earth and aligning our farming practices with cosmic influences, we cultivate teas that are not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.
Withering: Enhancing Aroma and Flavour
After harvesting, the Makaibari tea leaves undergo the withering process, where they are spread out to wilt naturally. This step allows moisture to evaporate from the leaves, intensifying their flavour and aroma while preparing them for the next processing stage. At Makaibari, we believe in the power of nature to enhance the quality of our teas and withering is where this journey begins.
Harnessing the Power of Sun and Air
Darjeeling's unique climate plays a crucial role in the withering process. Our Makaibari tea leaves bask in the gentle rays of the sun and are caressed by the cool mountain breeze, imparting a distinct character to our teas. The combination of sunlight and fresh air allows the leaves to undergo natural chemical changes, resulting in vibrant, aromatic teas and full of flavour.
Oxidation: Unveiling Depth and Complexity
Once withered, the Makaibari tea leaves undergo controlled oxidation, a crucial step in developing the complex flavours that define Darjeeling teas. During this process, enzymes within the leaves interact with oxygen, gradually transforming their chemical composition and creating layers of depth and richness. At Makaibari, our skilled artisans carefully monitor the oxidation process, ensuring that each batch of tea achieves the perfect balance of flavours.
Mastering the Art of Fermentation
Fermentation is where the magic truly happens. Our artisans carefully control temperature and humidity levels to facilitate the oxidation process, allowing the Makaibari tea leaves to develop their unique flavour profiles. This delicate art requires precision and expertise, as even slight variations in conditions can impact the final taste of the tea. At Makaibari, we take pride in our mastery of fermentation, producing teas that are nuanced, vibrant, and full of character.
Drying and Sorting
After oxidation, the Makaibari tea leaves are gently dried to halt the fermentation process and preserve their freshness. This final step ensures that our teas retain their vibrant flavours and aromas, ready to be enjoyed by tea lovers around the world. At Makaibari, we use traditional drying methods such as sun drying or indoor drying, depending on the specific characteristics of each tea.
Handcrafted with Care
Once dried, the Makaibari tea leaves undergo meticulous sorting by our skilled artisans. Each leaf is carefully inspected and graded based on size, shape, and quality, ensuring that only the finest leaves make it into our final blends. This hands-on approach to tea production ensures consistency and excellence in every cup, reflecting our dedication to crafting teas of the highest caliber.
Moonlight Plucking Under Darjeeling's Sky
At Makaibari, we begin our tea production process with moonlight plucking, a time-honoured tradition unique to Darjeeling. As the moon casts its ethereal glow over our tea gardens, skilled pluckers carefully select the freshest leaves, ensuring optimal flavour and aroma. This method, practiced during specific phases of the lunar cycle, allows us to capture the essence of the Makaibari tea leaves at their peak, resulting in teas of unparalleled quality.
From leaf to cup, the journey of tea production at Makaibari Tea Estate is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and tradition. With each sip of our Darjeeling brews, you embark on a sensory adventure that celebrates the rich heritage and natural beauty of our beloved estate. Join us in experiencing the magic of Makaibari, where every cup tells a story of passion, craftsmanship, and unparalleled quality.