Learn More about Tea Flushes

Most tea lovers would agree that the topic of discussing tea flushes excites them more than anything due to their delicate taste as well as freshness. In India, plucking the tea is known as flush. There are two kinds of tea flush, the first and the second. The first flush is when the first tea is plucked during spring or maybe towards late winter. The first flush is considered the best and the most expensive one. The term first flush represents the flavour and not the specific plucking time.

Tea plantations require an adequate amount of sunlight, water and soil to grow. But if exposed to too much sun, the tea bush loses its nutrients even if the bush appears to grow faster. The loss of its nutrients affects the flavour of the tea. Tea flush is an effective way to detect the flavour profile and quality of various teas. Season, geography, the flavour they retain and the type of tea grown contribute to how fast the tea leaves grow. This is the reason why tea flush is such a deciding factor of its quality and distinct flavour.

First Flush Tea

First flush tea is often handpicked and is most suitable for green, white and oolong teas. It is said to have more nutrients, caffeine and antioxidants compared to the second flush. Indian Darjeeling is generally harvested in three flushes, namely spring flush, summer flush and autumn flush. First Flush Tea is considered to be the most expensive followed by the second and third respectively. 

The first flush is defined by the geographic, weather and climatic conditions of the place where teas are grown and it is the first plucking of the harvest season. First flush tea leaves are more tender and younger and are said to be the most refined and freshest of the lot. Every additional flush bears a different flavour and characteristic as the growing season changes. 

Preparation of First Flush Tea

First flush tea is considered to be the champagne of all teas present. They are the most exquisite teas in the world. Storing first flush tea is extremely important to retain the taste of this blend. They are to be stored in a cool dark place away from sunlight in an airtight container. 

Brewing the first flush with cold filter water gives the best results as the tea leaves are lightly oxidized. Steep the tea leaves for about 2-3 minutes to achieve an astringent brew. Cover the tea and avoid adding sweeteners or milk to retain the delicate flavour. Make sure not to over steep the tea as it can make the tea bitter.

What is Second Flush Tea?

Second Flush tea is a result of early summer. They are plucked and produced towards June or July. Tea leaves from this flush are darker in comparison to the first flush and it appears more like black tea. Second flush tea leaves are a combination of dark brown and grey and once brewed, the tea takes a dark amber colour.

The flavour of the second flush is notable and is described best as muscatel. The aroma varies from being nutty to fruity and the flavour can be either mild or heavy. The flavours best associated with the second flush tea are mainly that of almond, earthy, rose, plum and chocolate.

Second flush Darjeeling Tea is the most popular. It has a flavourful aroma, is light hewed and is a thin brew. The second flush tea does not require milk or sweeteners. Second flush tea is full-bodied and bold compared to first flush tea. 

Which is Better - First Flush Tea or Second Flush Tea?

There have always been heated exchanges between tea experts when it comes to tea flushes. A few may say that the best tea is procured from fresh buds and leaves whereas, others prefer bolder infusions. Tea is harvested all year long, but the flush is the deciding factor of the best outcome.

The first flush tea depends on the area it is grown in, the country of its origin and the farmers who cultivate it. The term first flush normally describes the taste characterisation rather than the time of plucking. The second flush tea is harvested during late spring or early summer. In Assam, the first and second flush are both harvested at the same season. Try first flush sample:- https://teaswan.com/collections/tea-samplers  from Teaswan.

First flush tea is more expensive and is appreciated for its delicate and fresh notes. First flush tea is always the best pick for green teas, along with white as well as oolong tea. But, Darjeeling teas are slightly more complicated as they are less oxidized compared to other black teas. Whereas, on the other hand, Assam second flush tea is regarded as a better choice than the first flush as it is full-bodied and has a rich, malty flavour.

Benefits of First & Second Flush Tea

Both first and second flush teas have a lot of benefits. Whichever you might choose to drink, it will effectively boost your immune system. This is because of the huge amount of antioxidants present in them. Other benefits include the regulation of blood pressure and improvement in bone density. You might also witness weightloss if you consume this tea with a healthy diet and exercise.

Power flush herbal tea is another great option that helps effectively to remove toxins from your body and aids in detox. This tea is made by using various powerful herbs. Power flush herbal tea has been curated by professionals who have studied this process thoroughly by researching the methods of detox and by creating and formulating this herbal blend. 

Does Green Tea flush out toxins?

Many individuals have this constant query if green tea flushes out toxins? Let us take a look at what studies have shown. Detox is a method that helps you feel less bloated and increases your energy levels. During this process eating clean, nutritious, and natural foods are key. This helps to release toxins from the body.

Green tea is rich in antioxidants which is a major factor that leads to flushing out toxins and boosts immunity. Green tea is also said to have a refreshing effect on your body and helps cleanse your system. It also aids digestion along with other health benefits.

Final Words

Tea is a universal subject of discussion, however, Tea Flushes aren’t. Many experts have varied opinions and research and studies have shown the difference between the first flush and second flush. It is amazing how tea can procure different flavours, aromas and textures depending on the time of harvest. It leaves you with abundant choices of flavour profiles to choose from. So go ahead and give tea flushes a go and choose your favourite.