Nilgiris Mountain Black
The Nilgiris · Tamil Nadu · India
The Tea
From the Nilgiris, this whole-leaf black tea reveals itself gradually across successive infusions. Bright floral and fruit notes give way to citrus, biscuit-like warmth and a growing sweetness, while later infusions develop a silky, coating texture alongside the region’s characteristic briskness.
At a Glance
Origin The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
Tea Type Whole-Leaf Black Tea
Clone 6017
Production Produced throughout the year
Elevation Approximately 1,600-2,000 m
Producer Glendale Estate
Sourcing Relationship Direct purchase from producer
Sensory observations recorded by Utpatti
Liquor Appearance
Bright golden-straw, gaining depth and warmth across successive infusions.
Dry Leaf Aroma
Rose and strawberry appear alongside a fresh, bright citrus character, later giving way to warmer biscuit-like notes.
Taste
The early infusions carry floral and fruit notes with a vivid citrus zest. As the tea settles, these develop into buttery biscuit and a distinctive orange sweetness, with echoes of warm baked biscuit continuing into the later infusions.
Mouthfeel
Initially brisk and direct, becoming progressively silkier and more coating through successive infusions.
Finish
Clean and gently drying, with lingering sweetness and warmth.
The Story
The Nilgiris were among the landscapes that helped deepen Utpatti’s understanding of Indian specialty tea. At Glendale, tea was encountered not simply through the finished leaf, but within the mountain environment in which it is grown and made.
Nilgiris Mountain Black emerged from that encounter. Originally presented by Glendale as ‘Twirl’, the tea stayed with us for the way its character continued to unfold in the cup — moving from bright floral and fruit notes towards warmth, sweetness and an increasingly generous texture.
