Our exploration of India’s vibrant tea regions brought us to the prestigious Halmari Tea Estate in Assam — a garden synonymous with producing some of the finest orthodox and CTC teas in the world. Nestled in the lush Dibrugarh region, Halmari stands as a beacon of quality and innovation, where traditional tea cultivation techniques meet cutting-edge manufacturing processes. Managed by Mr. Prem Ojha during our visit, Halmari’s reputation for excellence was evident in every aspect of the estate.
A Legacy of Excellence: The Story of Halmari
Halmari’s journey spans over 100 years, with its roots deeply entrenched in Assam’s tea heritage. Part of the Daga family’s lineage of tea gardens, Halmari has evolved into a global icon, consistently delivering award-winning teas that command top prices at international auctions. The estate’s unwavering commitment to quality, combined with a focus on precision and innovation, has propelled it to the forefront of Assam’s tea industry.
Perfect Terroir for Unmatched Assam Teas
Situated in the heart of Assam’s Brahmaputra Valley, Halmari benefits from an ideal terroir that contributes to its exceptional teas. The fertile soil, abundant rainfall, and warm tropical climate create the perfect environment for cultivating robust Assam teas with distinctive malty richness. The estate spans over 374 hectares, with lush green bushes meticulously plucked in 6-day rounds to ensure the freshest leaves are harvested.
During our tour, Mr. Prem Ojha emphasized the importance of maintaining this rhythm to preserve the quality and consistency of Halmari’s teas. The precision in plucking ensures that only the tender two leaves and a bud are selected, which forms the foundation of Halmari’s signature teas.
Halmari’s Commitment to Pristine Manufacturing
The processing facilities at Halmari are a testament to the estate’s unwavering dedication to excellence. The factory adheres to the highest hygiene standards, ensuring that freshly plucked leaves are processed immediately to retain their natural flavours and aromas. Mr. Prem Ojha focus on maintaining strict quality controls at every stage of production ensures that Halmari’s teas meet and exceed global standards.
From withering to rolling and fermentation, every step of the manufacturing process is meticulously managed to extract the finest characteristics from the leaves. This attention to detail is what gives Halmari’s teas their distinct flavour profiles — rich, malty, and complex, with a smooth, lingering finish.
Award-Winning Excellence: Halmari’s Global Recognition
Halmari has become synonymous with quality, earning numerous awards and accolades over the years. Its orthodox teas are celebrated for their nuanced flavors, while its CTC teas are known for their bold strength and briskness — making them perfect for a robust cup of Assam chai. Halmari’s teas have consistently fetched record-breaking prices at global auctions, a testament to the estate’s exceptional standards.
A Taste of Halmari: Experiencing Assam’s Finest Teas
Our tasting session at Halmari was nothing short of extraordinary. The orthodox teas delivered a complex symphony of malty sweetness, floral undertones, and a velvety mouthfeel, while the CTC blends packed a punch with their robust, invigorating character. Each sip echoed the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every batch of tea produced at Halmari.
The estate’s ability to balance tradition with innovation was evident in the diversity of flavours we experienced. Whether enjoyed with or without milk, Halmari’s teas left a lasting impression, reaffirming their position as one of Assam’s finest producers.
Why Halmari Teas Deserve a Place in Your Collection
For tea enthusiasts seeking to explore the true essence of Assam, Halmari’s teas offer a sensory journey that captures the region’s rich heritage. From the robust strength of its CTC blends to the intricate complexity of its orthodox teas, Halmari delivers an unforgettable experience that embodies the best of Assam.
Plan Your Visit to Halmari Tea Estate
If you’re planning a trip to Assam, a visit to Halmari Tea Estate should be high on your list. Witness the precision of tea cultivation, explore the estate’s lush landscapes, and savour the exceptional flavours that have made Halmari a global icon.