Kathmandu, 2nd Flush

I've been drinking second flush teas for years and this one from Ilam Estate really stands out. The grape-like flavor is smooth without any bitterness, even when I accidentally oversteep it. It's become my go-to afternoon cup.

The muscatel in this second flush is real — that grape-y thing people talk about actually comes through once it cools a bit. I brew it at about 90°C for three minutes and it stays smooth without going bitter. Ilam Estate clearly knows what they're doing.

I'd never tried a Nepali tea before this one, and the muscatel note really does come through — that grape-y finish caught me off guard in the best way. Steeped it about three minutes and it stayed smooth without any bitterness. Already eyeing my second order.