Discover Assam and its Famous Black Tea
Assam’s tea industry dates back to the early 19th century, when British colonialists first discovered its potential for tea cultivation. In 1823, the British began experimenting with tea cultivation in the region after finding wild tea plants in the Brahmaputra Valley, the largest river in the region. By 1836, the first commercial tea estate was established, and Assam quickly became one of the largest tea-producing regions in the world. The favorable climate, rich soil, and abundant rainfall made Assam an ideal location for growing tea, and the industry flourished throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Over time, the state’s tea estates began to produce a wide variety of teas using two primary processing methods: Orthodox and CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl). Orthodox tea is made using traditional methods that preserve the whole leaf, resulting in a more complex, nuanced flavor profile, while CTC tea is processed by machines that tear the leaves into smaller pieces, creating a brisker, stronger brew, often used in mass-market tea bags.
Assam black tea is known for its bold, malty flavor, and rich, full-bodied character. It typically has a deep amber or reddish-brown liquor with a robust, slightly astringent taste. The tea’s unique flavor profile is a result of Assam’s distinct growing conditions, where the combination of high humidity and fertile soil creates teas with a rich mouthfeel and pronounced maltiness. Assam black tea is a key component in popular blends such as English Breakfast and Irish Breakfast teas, where its strong and invigorating flavor balances well with the other ingredients. Its deep, malty flavor is especially popular for those who enjoy a morning pick-me-up.
Premium Assam teas, such as the highly regarded "TGFOP" (Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe) and "BOP" (Broken Orange Pekoe), are graded using a system that reflects the size, quality, and appearance of the leaves. "TGFOP" is one of the highest grades, indicating that the tea has a significant proportion of tips—young, tender leaf buds—giving it a more delicate, complex flavor with floral, fruity, or subtly spiced notes. "BOP," on the other hand, consists of smaller, broken leaves, which typically brew a stronger, more robust cup, often with malty and bold characteristics. Other notable grades include "FTGFOP" (Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe), which is considered even more premium due to its higher proportion of tips, and "OP" (Orange Pekoe), which features longer, whole leaves and produces a balanced, less astringent brew. These high-grade teas, meticulously handpicked and processed, offer an elevated tea-drinking experience with distinct, layered flavors that are appreciated by tea connoisseurs.
At Pretty Good Tea, we have handpicked premium Assam teas from Mokalbari Estate and from Aideobari Estate. You can't go wrong with either of these choices to get that robust, malty pick-me-up cup of tea in the morning!
Top Things to See and Do in Assam:
Tour a Tea Estate:
Assam is home to some of the world's most famous tea estates. Taking a guided tour of a tea estate allows you to walk through sprawling tea garden, observe the traditional tea plucking process, and learn about the various stages of tea production. Many estates also offer tea-tasting sessions, where you can sample different Assam teas and learn about their distinct flavor profiles.
See One-Horned Rhinos at the Kaziranga National Park:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is not only home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros but also offers a rich cultural experience. The park’s diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes are complemented by the vibrant Assamese culture of the nearby villages. Exploring the local communities offers insight into the harmonious coexistence of nature and cultural traditions in Assam.
Spend an afternoon at the Kamakhya Temple:
Situated on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, the Kamakhya Temple is one of the holiest sites in India. Known for its connection to Tantric rituals and its significant place in the worship of the Goddess Shakti, the temple attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The annual Ambubachi Mela, a festival dedicated to the goddess, is a major draw for those seeking a spiritual experience.
Visit Sivasagar to Explore Assam's Heritage:
Once the capital of the Ahom kingdom, Sivasagar is home to several historical monuments, including the grand Rang Ghar (an ancient amphitheater), the Talatal Ghar (a royal palace), and numerous temples and tanks. The region’s rich history is a testament to Assam’s royal past, and it offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Ahom dynasty.
Discover Majuli Island:
Beyond its tea-drinking charm, Majuli is a center of Assamese culture, particularly known for its Vaishnavism-based satras (monasteries) that preserve the region’s traditional performing arts and crafts. The island is also famous for its festivals, folk music, and dance forms such as Sattriya, making it an enriching destination for those interested in Assam's cultural heritage.
Photo Credits:
- Main Assam Tea Estate image by Amit Ranjan
- Rhino image in Kaziranga National Park by Omkar Rane
- Ranghar image in Sivasagar by Ankita Konwar