ABOUT
Satemwa Tea Estate was established in 1923 by the late H.M. de Jongh, a Dutch settler who envisioned Malawian tea production that would rival the best in the world. The estate was one of the first in the country to adopt modern tea production techniques, which laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving industry. Over the decades, Satemwa has remained a family-run business, currently overseen by the third generation of the de Jongh family, who continue to blend tradition with innovation. One of the unique aspects of Satemwa Tea Estate is the diversity of its tea offerings. The estate produces a variety of tea types, including black, green, white, and oolong teas. Each type is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the distinctive flavors and aromas characteristic of Satemwa are preserved.
Satemwa Tea Estate prides itself on its commitment to sustainability. The estate employs environmentally friendly farming practices that minimize the impact on the surrounding ecosystem. This includes organic fertilization, natural pest management, and water conservation practices. Furthermore, the estate actively engages in reforestation projects and biodiversity initiatives to preserve the local wildlife habitat.
ORIGIN
Satemwa Tea Estate enjoys a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level, Satemwa experiences cooler temperatures that generally range between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These moderate temperatures are crucial for slow leaf maturation, which enhances the tea's flavor profile. The estate receives an average annual rainfall of about 1,000 to 1,200 mm (39 to 47 inches), concentrated during the rainy season from November to April. This consistent moisture is vital for robust tea growth. The well-distributed rainfall also eliminates the need for extensive irrigation systems, as the plants thrive naturally in the lush environment. The estate's soil is characterized by volcanic, fertile, well-draining loamy soil, enriched with essential nutrients. This rich soil composition supports lush vegetation and the growth of robust tea bushes, leading to high-quality tea production.
ORGANOLEPTICS
Harvested and processed entirely by hand, the tea leaves maintain integrity and impressive visual appeal. The raw material consists of young leaves, ensuring a deep and rich flavor profile. Each tea from Satemwa Tea Estate is distinct and deserving of special appreciation. This particular wulong tea stands out for its simplicity and uniqueness, complemented by a delicate yet rich taste, unlike most wulong teas made from Camellia Sinensis var. Sinensis varietal, this one is crafted from the rarer var. Assamica, giving it a unique character that sets it apart.
Dry tea leaves exude a sweet, honeyed, fruity fragrance that distinctly sets them apart from Chinese wulongs. When warmed, the leaves transform, revealing scents reminiscent of dried tropical fruits with a subtle marine hint. Rinsing the leaves enhances the aroma, deepening it to include notes of perfume and baked goods, accompanied by light floral and creamy undertones. As the tea continues to unfold, jasmine blossoms into the profile.
The flavor is gentle, sweet, and rich, featuring floral, honey, and creamy notes, with a touch of greenery lingering in the aftertaste. It is perfectly balanced, offering a profound tasting experience rich in texture and inducing a sense of tranquility and harmony. The infusion displays a color akin to young whiskey – transparent and viscous. This tea shines in Western and Eastern brewing styles, revealing new layers each brewing session. Longer steeping times yield a thicker infusion, introducing mildly astringent woody notes, tannins, and a hint of spruce.