Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black

Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black

4.6 20 reviews

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.

Low
Caffeine

First Flush
picked Jun 2026

Flavor Strength
Light

GI Certified
Darjeeling

100g 100g≈ 50 cups$21.99 300g 300g≈ 150 cups~~$65.97~~$62.67 MOST POPULAR 500g 500g≈ 250 cups~~$109.95~~$98.96 BEST VALUE 1Kg 1Kg≈ 500 cups~~$219.90~~$193.51

🟢SHIPS BYTOMORROW | 🌍 10–14 DAYSTO US

Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black

$21.99

The Garden

Nestled in Kurseong, Darjeeling, Castleton Tea Estate was established in 1885 by Dr Charles Graham, taking its name from a castle like bungalow that once overlooked its rolling hills.

Spread across elevations of 1,000 to 1,830 meters, its heritage Chinary bushes yield teas celebrated for vibrant florals and remarkable depth, a true benchmark of Darjeeling excellence.

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.

As 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.

Darjeeling Castleton Spring Chinary Black tasting notes

This lot's freshness journey

Verified picking and processing dates. Batch DJ 26 · Chinary cultivar · Grade SFTGFOP1

40.8 km · ~1 hrs. The only facility near the source - this lot reached us within 2 hours.

1st Jun'26

Picked & processed

Hand-plucked and made at the estate

2nd Jun'26

Arrived at Teabox

Within 24 hrs of manufacturing we receive the teas

2nd Jun'26

Sorted & cleaned

Hand-sorted for impurities, dust, fannings & foreign materials

2nd Jun'26

Vacuum-packed

Ensures freshness & protects from 4 enemies (light, heat, moisture & oxygen)

2nd Jun'26

Stored for freshness

Teas are then stored in one of its kind cold chain facility in India to ensure the quality is preserved

On your order.

Ready to ship

Globally within 24hrs. Direct from our facility at the source

How To Steep

Step 1

Heat 150ml of water to 85–90°C (185-194°F).

Step 2

Measure 1.5 tsp (2 g) of tea into the teapot or infuser.

Step 3

Pour the hot water over the leaves and cover.

Step 4

Let it steep for 5 minutes.

Step 5

Strain and pour. These leaves give their best in one steep.

Serving

Enjoy it plain, or with a splash of honey or lemon.

Storage Instructions

Airtight container, away from heat, sunlight and moisture.

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 LICENSE

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.

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.

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.

5 stars: 12 (60%)
4 stars: 8 (40%)
3 stars: 0 (0%)
2 stars: 0 (0%)
1 star: 0 (0%)

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.

Mesmerising gold look

Good aromatic flavouring every sip and giving a very very cool effect and by the time cup gets emptied you are completely lost in tea world

Just 'My cup of tea'

It has a heaven;y taste! Just loved it!

Excellent Tea

This is an excellent first flush with a mellow-to-little strong flavour. Just perfect!

Reliable Spring Black from Darjeeling

This is one spring black to rule them all. Some are a bit too floral, some too grassy/vegetal others too harsh, but for me this tea hits perfect balance. This tea does have a complex aroma and a full body too. This is by no means a silent, mellow tea that will soothe your nerves; this is something that has a shouting quality about it. Perfect to turn a lazy morning into an energetic one! One needs to pay a slight attention while steeping this one, if water is not hot enough it looses the kick. This is my second pack of this tea, needless to say I will continue buying this one for foreseeable future

Good Darjeeling tea

Good to drink for the breakfast. Tast of a good darjeeling.

A classic

Solid first flush Darjeeling, smooth, floral, citrusy and easy to drink.

Almost a bit green

When you look at the leaves, it may be a bit surprising that this is in fact a black tea. It almost looks like a mixture of black and green tea, and it pretty must tastes that way too. It was a very plesent cup of tea, but very far from a breakfast tea.

High Quality and Special

I really enjoy its special tastes, for me they are new and not classic. I find them pleasing and refreshing - some family members did not so much like it.
I enjoy it very much in the evening and noon

Great

It's very fruity I guess but it tastes great plain and better with sugar
Reviewed as part of theTeabox subscription program.

Classic

Their own description of this tea is accurate - a brisk first flush taste without any bitterness. The muscatel aroma was refreshing, and delicious. Nothing to not like about it, very solid. In my estimation, this is the kind of tea that helps form Darjeeling's reputation world wide.