Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black

Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black

From Castleton’s celebrated Chinary bushes comes a vibrant spring black tea with brisk citrus, raw mango, orchid-like florals, and a lingering sweet-earthy finish that captures the freshness of Darjeeling’s first flush.

Pack Size:

100g/3.5oz

100g/3.5oz

SAVE 5%

300g/10.5oz

SAVE 9%

500g/17.6oz

SAVE 12%

1Kg/35.2oz

Variant

Story

Nestled amidst the mist-laden slopes of Kurseong, Darjeeling, Castleton Tea Estate stands among the most celebrated tea gardens in the world. Established in 1885 by Dr. Charles Graham, the estate derives its name from a castle-like bungalow that once overlooked its rolling hills. Over the decades, Castleton has earned a legendary reputation for crafting teas of exceptional elegance, complexity, and character.

Spread across elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,830 meters, the estate benefits from a rare confluence of altitude, fertile soils, abundant rainfall, and cool Himalayan breezes. These unique growing conditions, combined with its prized heritage Chinary bushes, give rise to teas renowned for their vibrant florals, nuanced fruit notes, and remarkable depth of flavour.

More than a century after its founding, Castleton remains a benchmark of Darjeeling excellence. Its storied slopes, rich heritage, and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship continue to produce teas that beautifully express the spirit of the Himalayas, making every harvest a testament to one of Darjeeling’s most iconic estates.

Why Premium Pricing?

True craft takes time.
This tea could never be rushed.

Your Castleton Spring Chinary Black Tea is:

- Plucked from heritage Chinary bushes
- Grown on the misty slopes of Kurseong
- Nurtured by cool air and high altitude
- Handcrafted in small artisanal batches
- A pure expression of Spring Darjeeling

A rare harvest, just once a year.
And now, in your cup.

Shipping

Your order undergoes 1 day of processing, and we provide a tracking link once it has shipped. Delivery times vary based on the chosen shipping option:

Express: 5-8 days
Standard: 12-18 days

Since we ship fresh teas from the Himalayan foothills in India that normally cover 10,000+ miles via air, to qualify for free Express shipping, order value thresholds are as follows for these countries.

Australia - 74 AUD
Canada - 64 CAD
Russia - 8,000 RUB
Singapore - 52 SGD
South Korea - 59347 KRW
United Arab Emirates - 148 AED
United Kingdom - 30 GBP
USA - 39 USD

For EU countries, please note that we collect nominal duties and taxes up front (on the checkout), and the price you pay is the landed cost/door-delivery cost. You would not have to pay anything extra.

For other countries, unless specified otherwise at checkout, our terms of trade are 'DAP' (Delivered at Place without payment of duty and taxes of the destination country). Under DAP, the buyer is responsible for paying for the goods, import clearance inspection, import formalities, destination duties and taxes, and providing a complete address with correct contact details. Teabox is responsible for providing the goods with the necessary documentation, arranging pickup, carriage, and door delivery, and handling origin customs formalities.

Freshness Journey

Real fresh teas with transparent evidence of 'where' the tea was manufactured, and 'when' it was manufactured, verified by picking and processing dates

Picked & Processed

1st Jun'26

Arrived at Teabox

Within 24 hrs of manufacturing of the teas at estate, we receive them

2nd Jun'26

Sorted & Cleaned

We do hand sorting of the teas to ensure our customers only receive whole leaves and not dust

2nd Jun'26

Vacuum Packed

We vacuum pack the teas to ensure freshness and protect it from the 4 enemies (light/heat/moisture/oxygen)

2nd Jun'26

Stored for Freshness

Post vacuum packing, the teas are stored in one of its kind cold chain facility in India to ensure the quality is preserved

2nd Jun'26

Ready to Ship

Usually delivers within 5-7 Biz Days

3rd Jun'26

The Reason Why Your Teas Are Fresh

As the only facility near the source, our close proximity to the estates ensures teas reach within 24-48 hours of production

Harvest

We believe in 100% Transparency of product traceability & its origins

First Flush

The season of teas picked between the four flushes(harvests) of the year

Season

SFTGFOP1

Refers to Special Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe One: Simply the best & finest in whole leaf quality

Grade

Chinary

Represents the cultivar of the Tea Plant

Speciality

DJ 26

Unique Reference Number for this Batch

Invoice

Medium

The amount of Caffeine this tea contains

Caffeine

Certifications

100% Pure & Fresh Darjeeling Tea

Certified by the Tea Board of India under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. Darjeeling CTM License No.- DJ/489/13032015/TE

TEA BOARD OF INDIA LICENCE

DARJEELING CERTIFIED TRADE MARK

With the rise of adulterated Darjeeling teas blended with teas from different regions, it is important to choose an authentic Indian brand. All of our Darjeeling teas, sourced fresh from the gardens, are sold with a Certified Trademark license.

How To Steep

Step 1

Start by heating water in a kettle

Step 2

Measure precise tea leaves for the teapot/infuser.

Step 3

Pour the hot water over the leaves

Step 4

Let it steep for the recommended duration

Step 5

Strain and enjoy sipping your freshly steeped tea.

Steeping Method

5.07fl oz/
150 ml

185°-194°F/
85°C-90°C

1.5Tsp/2g/
0.07oz

5
mins

Steep
Once

Storage Instructions

Store in a cool dry place away from heat, sunlight and moisture. Use an airtight container to minimize contact with O2

Tasting Notes

From our Chief Tea Taster

Aroma

Fresh greens layered with sweet corn, bright citrus peel, and delicate earthy undertones.

Appearance

Gold

Taste

Bright and brisk on the palate, the cup opens with a refreshing interplay of citrus, fresh greens, and a gentle sweetness that immediately enlivens the senses.

s the liquor evolves, vibrant notes of raw mango and wood apple emerge at the center, bringing a juicy, green-fruited character that is both expressive and refined. These fruit accents are beautifully complemented by delicate floral nuances reminiscent of orchid blossoms and soft geranium, adding elegance and complexity to the cup.

As the tea settles, subtle earthy undertones begin to surface, harmonizing with a lingering touch of fennel seed that imparts a delicate aromatic sweetness. The finish is clean and enduring, leaving behind a graceful impression of spring freshness and the distinctive character of a fine Castleton first flush.

YOU ASKED WE ANSWERED

What is Spring Chinary Black Tea?

Spring Chinary Black Tea is crafted from the Camellia sinensis var. sinensis plant, commonly known as the Chinary tea bush. After a winter dormancy from December to February, the young spring leaves—rich in sap—are harvested between March and May, giving the tea its signature freshness and layered complexity.

How does this tea differ from other Darjeeling black teas?

This tea is crafted from heritage Chinary bushes, offering a distinctly fresh and lively cup with delicate floral and fruity notes. Its spring harvest ensures a bright, crisp character that sets it apart from later seasonal flushes.

What makes spring flush teas special?

Spring flush teas are the first harvest after the plant's winter dormancy, making them highly prized for their freshness, complexity, and delicate flavors. The tender leaves are rich in natural sap, resulting in a refined and aromatic cup.

How should I steep this tea?

1. Heat water to 185°F-194°F (85°C-90°C).
2. Add the recommended amount of tea leaves to a teapot or infuser.
3. Pour hot water over the leaves.
4. Steep for 4-5 minutes.
5. Strain and enjoy.

You can adjust steeping time to explore different flavor nuances.

How should I store this tea?

1. Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
2. Store in a cool, dark place, away from heat and sunlight.
3. Avoid strong odors to preserve its delicate aroma.

Does this tea contain caffeine?

Yes, this tea contains moderate levels of caffeine—offering a gentle energy boost without overwhelming stimulation.

Are these teas sustainably sourced?

Yes! At Teabox, we are committed to sourcing teas from renowned estates that uphold ethical and sustainable practices. Our teas come from gardens that prioritize environmental responsibility and fair labor practices, ensuring both quality and social impact.

By choosing Teabox, you support a tea culture rooted in sustainability and care—for the land, the people, and your cup.

Frequently Purchased

Stepping (or Steeping) Into the World of Teabox

Excited to broaden my tea experience with my first black tea sampler box. So far, not disappointed. I'll update with reviews on the other varieties tried but will start with the Castleton Spring Chinary Black. I'll say, having not studied ahead, I was surprised by the light golden hue & milder taste. My mind was telling me it was a green tea instead of a black tea with the first cup, but now a few cups in, I'm getting more of a black tea essence. I'll admit that my palate is not that trained or sophisticated, so can't yet claim some of the distinctions I see Teabox or others make in flavor notes but I'm working on it. ha-ha. Wish I had more time to sit and compare the other varieties directly rather than a day or two apart - maybe in time. Meanwhile, I'm enjoying my included glass mug, and knowing I'm getting a fresh, high-quality tea.

Great tea

I bought a sampler package in 2024 and while not a connoisseur of fine teas, I found three that I really enjoyed. I couldn't order any more last year as it was gone but I did ask Teabox to remind me when it was once again available. I got the notice and ordered it for my consumption and to give one of the packets to my sister-in-law for use. Very nice flavor and aroma. Teabox comes through with some great tea.

Good, simple black

Has a flavour that can be described as mellow-to-little strong flavour.

Delicious and refreshing

A perfectly balanced and delicious cup of tea. I’m really enjoying this flavor profile and look forward to my afternoon cup of tea. You make an exceptional product and I’m glad I discovered Teabox. Especially love the ritual of steeping it in the lovely glass cup. While I have many tea brewing gadgets, I always reach for this cup.
Highly recommend.

Excellent quality tea. Very...

Excellent quality tea. Very nice packaging which maintains the freshness of the tea. Thank you.

It's light and flavourful.

It's light and flavourful.

Very nice tea. We...

Very nice tea. We are enjoying.

ALWAYS MAINTAIN EXCELLENT QUALITY

ALWAYS MAINTAIN EXCELLENT QUALITY

A mild cup with a fruity note & a hint of citrus.

Very good cup of Spring produce. A hint of citrus and a very light roast flavor makes this cup a truly enjoyable one.
The service of Teabox is exceptional though!!!

A taste extraordinary

I could go out and buy my favourite cuppa. So I took a peek at teabox. On a whim I ordered Castleton black. The ease of payment, prompt delivery and a free gift too. All these made me appreciate the service.
But the taste of the cuppa was amazing. I thank Teabox for curating flavours that please the tea soul in me.
Love Darjeeling.

Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black

Freshness Journey

The Reason Why Your Teas Are Fresh

Harvest

Certifications

How To Steep

Tasting Notes

YOU ASKED WE ANSWERED

Frequently Purchased

Customer Reviews