ABOUT
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Bihar, India, the Doke Tea Estate is a remarkable example of the rich tradition and heritage of Indian tea cultivation. Renowned for its high-quality teas, Doke has become a significant player in the specialty tea market, attracting enthusiasts worldwide. Doke Tea Estate was established in the 1980s by the Doke family, who were inspired by the potential for cultivating tea in the region. The estate covers approximately 200 acres and has been dedicated to producing high-quality tea since its inception. The estate's founder, Rajiv Ranjan Doke, initially experimented with various tea cultivars, ultimately settling on plants that best suited the estate's unique terroir. Over the years, Doke Tea Estate has gained recognition for its commitment to organic farming practices, sustainability, and innovation in tea production. The estate has earned numerous domestic and international accolades for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavors, establishing itself as a prestigious entity in the global tea market.
Doke's teas are known for their complex and layered flavors, which often include floral, fruity, and earthy notes. The unique terroir of the estate enhances the natural characteristics of the tea leaves, resulting in a memorable tasting experience. Doke’s commitment to quality is reflected in its meticulous harvesting process. The tea leaves are carefully handpicked to ensure that only the best leaves are selected for production. This labor-intensive approach contributes to the premium quality of the final product. Doke Tea Estate is committed to sustainability and organic farming practices. By avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, the estate not only preserves the environment but also ensures that the tea produced is free from harmful chemicals, making it a healthier choice for consumers. Doke Tea Estate continuously explores new methods of tea processing, often experimenting with traditional techniques to create unique blends and flavors. This commitment to innovation has kept Doke at the forefront of the specialty tea market.
ORIGIN
Doke Tea Estate is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, specifically in the region of Munger, Bihar. The estate benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by lush green landscapes, fertile soil, and ample rainfall, providing ideal tea-growing conditions. The elevation, which ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 feet above sea level, is crucial in developing the flavors and aromas of the tea produced here. The surrounding environment is rich in biodiversity, with abundant flora and fauna contributing to the ecosystem's health. The estate’s location near the Ganges River adds to the richness of the soil, further enhancing the tea's characteristics.
ORGANOLEPTICS
The tea leaves are a stunning mix of colors, ranging from white to dark brown, evoking the beauty of autumn foliage. Their fragrant aroma is rich and sweet, with hints of floral, honey, and fruit notes. After warming, the scent deepens with floral nuances, while the rinsed leaves unveil fruity and wine-like characteristics.
This tea excels with any brewing method and at any temperature, but I particularly enjoy the gongfu cha style, where it stands out among its eastern peers. By creatively adjusting the water temperature throughout the brewing process, you can unlock a delightful symphony of aromas and flavors as the tea unfolds.
The taste is smooth and sweet, featuring honey, fruit, dried fruit, and subtle sugar notes. The infusion has a silky texture and a lingering sweetness with a hint of menthol. The liquid exhibits a clear amber color with orange undertones. With extended infusion, the tea reveals tobacco and woody notes, along with a touch of citrus and a characteristic light astringency typical of Indian teas.