Assam is one of the popular destinations of tea production. Its name is derived from Sanskrit word ‘Asom’. Do you know what does it mean? ‘Asom’ means ‘one without equal’. Assam tea also shares the same meaning.

This place is not only popular for natural beauty of the tea estates but it is also the largest and single tea producing region. Black tea from Assam has the unique malty flavor and is hot favorite to people globally.

How tea is brought to Assam?

Bodo tribe of this country is believed to have introduced tea in Assam. Initially, they harvested it for their own use. Scottish explorer, Robert Spruce discovered tea plants in this region. Then Botanical Garden of Kolkata has identified it as Camellia sinensis, a variety of Chinese tea plant. Gradually, a market was created for Assam blends in foreign countries like London and first consignment was shipped to London in 1836.

Assam – The Land of Indian Tea

The characteristic features of Assam blends are attributed by environment of Assam. Tropical weather condition and low altitude of this place render malty character and rich amber color to its teas. Assam black teas are perfect as a morning cup. Second flush orthodox blends of Assam have bright color and exquisite taste. They are in fact amongst the choicest brews of drinkers globally.

Unique Time System in Assam Tea Gardens

Let’s share an interesting fact about Assam tea gardens with you! Tea estates of this region do not follow IST or Indian Standard Time. Local time in these gardens is called “Tea Garden Time” which is one hour ahead of IST. British had introduced this time system and consequently, it was found very effective in increasing tea productivity. Moreover, Assam is the only place where tea cultivation takes place in plains.

Assam tea is indeed ‘love at the first gulp’. English and Irish Breakfast tea is made with Assam black tea with other blends. Boldness of Assam brew makes it a wonderful substitute to coffee. Taste and aroma of this blend have given it a place of pride in Indian beverage market.

Largest tea research center of India is situated in Jorhat, Assam. Today, this region has numerous tea estates producing millions of tea every year. Almost 13% of tea production across the global comes from Assam. Blends of this region are not only enjoyed by drinkers in this country, they are also exported abroad to countries like USA, UAE, Germany, UK and Russian Federation.