Nilgiri Black Tea
India — Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu
Oxidation: full
Harvest: winter
Tasting Profile
Floral, fragrant with bright citrus
Brisk, aromatic with floral and citrus notes
Medium-bodied, smooth
Clean, bright, slightly fruity
Brewing Guide
Temperature
90-100°C
194-212°F
Steep Time
3-5 min
Leaf Amount
2g / 100ml
Max Infusions
1
About This Tea
Nilgiri Black Tea is a distinguished tea originating from Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, India, where the unique combination of soil, climate, and elevation creates ideal conditions for producing this remarkable variety. The leaves are fully oxidized through a careful process of withering, rolling, oxidation, and firing that develops its characteristic dark color and robust flavor, resulting in a tea that has captivated drinkers for generations with its distinctive character and refined qualities. For centuries, tea artisans in this region have perfected the techniques needed to bring out the best in each leaf, passing down knowledge from master to apprentice through countless generations.
When properly prepared, Nilgiri Black Tea delivers a remarkable sensory journey. The aroma offers floral, fragrant with bright citrus, setting the stage for a taste that is brisk, aromatic with floral and citrus notes. No two infusions are exactly alike — the leaves continue to reveal different facets of their character with each steeping. The caffeine profile of this tea is noteworthy: it is moderately high in caffeine at 40-55 mg per cup, offering a noticeable energy boost while remaining gentler than coffee.
India is one of the world's largest tea producers, with a tea culture that blends ancient Ayurvedic traditions with colonial-era plantation heritage.
Preparing Nilgiri Black Tea requires attention to temperature and timing. Water at 90°C to 100°C brings out the best qualities of the leaf, while steeping for 3 to 5 minutes achieves the ideal balance of flavor and body. A ratio of 2.0g per 100ml of water is recommended. With up to 1 possible infusions, each cup provides a new opportunity to appreciate the nuances of this exceptional tea.
Today, Nilgiri Black Tea continues to be celebrated both in its homeland and by tea enthusiasts around the world. Its unique flavor profile has earned it a devoted following among those who appreciate the art and science of fine tea. Whether enjoyed as a daily ritual or reserved for special occasions, Nilgiri Black Tea represents a connection to centuries of tea tradition and the ongoing pursuit of excellence in every cup. The growing global interest in specialty teas has brought renewed attention to this variety, ensuring that the artisanal techniques behind its production continue to thrive.
Health Benefits
Caffeine Deep Dive
compared to coffee (95 mg)
Based on the FDA guideline of 400 mg/day, you can safely drink up to 8 cups per day.
Track your daily intake with the Caffeine Calculator →Serving Suggestions
Pairs Well With
Recommended Teaware
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Nutrition Facts
Per 240ml serving
Per 240ml serving
| Calories | 2 kcal |
| Caffeine | 40-55 mg |
| L-Theanine | 5-10 mg |
| Polyphenols | 80-150 mg |
| Vitamin C | 0-1 mg |
| Protein | 0.3 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0.4 g |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Potassium | 20 mg |
| Magnesium | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 3 mg |
| Sodium | 1 mg |