Tippy Orthodox GFOP Assam

An excellent Assam. Just add milk and sugar and it is good at any temperature- hot, warm, cool, or iced.  I would describe this as a classic Assam tea with a malty flavor profile and honey-like notes.  I've introduced this tea to several of my family members and friends, and it has become a solid 'tea-time' favorite.  Even my boyfriend, new to loose leaf tea, enjoys this blend.  I always keep a tin of this on hand.  Upton describes the blend as, "A whole-leaf Assam with golden tips (young leaf buds). Characteristic maltiness and complex flavor. This is our most popular Assam."

 TA40: Tippy Orthodox GFOP Assam

Origin: India

Steeping Suggestions

Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup

Water Temp: 212º (boiling)

Steep Time: 5 min.

Tippy Orthodox FBOP Assam

This brew appears to be a lighter version of the full leaf sister by Upton, Tippy Orthodox GFOP Assam.  It reminds me of the sweet black tea used for bubble tea.  It  brings back memories of lunch breaks in Harvard Square.  It is described as, “A uniform, broken-leaf tea with bold character and strong, malty flavor. Floral hints in the aftertaste make this tea a great choice for breakfast and throughout the day.”  I have to agree with this one.  A solid, basic breakfast tea.

A20: Tippy Orthodox FBOP Assam

Origin: India

Steeping Suggestions

Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup

Water Temp: 212° (boiling)

Steep Time: 4 min.

Banaspaty Estate FTGFOP1 Organic

Dry leaves smell earthy. During infusion, the brew smells like freshly-roasted peanuts. The liquid tastes harsh even with milk and sugar. It's missing that flowery taste and aroma I value in an Assam.  According to Upton, “This modestly priced Assam is a great value, with uniform leaf and a moderate amount of tip. The medium-bodied cup has rich flavor, with smooth, malty nuances. This is an excellent choice for those seeking an organic Assam for any time of day.”  Ultimately my vote goes towards a more flowery, honey-like assam, so I'm afraid I have to give this one a thumbs down.

TA26: Banaspaty Estate FTGFOP1 Organic

Origin: India

Steeping Suggestions

Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup

Water Temp: 212° (boiling)

Steep Time: 4-5 min.

Sessa 'B' Estate STGFOP1(S)

An exceptionally flowery and creamy Assam! It balances the maltiness with sweetness well. I will definitely consider buying a larger packet after trying the sample!  According to Upton, "While this whole-leaf tea displays only limited tip, the pleasant cup has a creamy-smooth character with a rich complexity that suggests a more expensive tea. This is a special Assam tea at an everyday price."

TA25: Sessa 'B' Estate STGFOP1(S)

Origin: India

Steeping Suggestions

Leaf Quantity: 2¼ g/cup

Water Temp: 212° (boiling)

Steep Time: 4-5 min.