It is a frequently asked question that what the difference between the two types of teas is? Naturally, that curiosity level piques, when you are a keen-enthusiast in order to try different varieties of tea. Though both of the varieties of tea are grown in the same country, there are a lot of differences between them. Let us know about the main characteristics that segregate the two teas.

1. The terrain where they are grown

Assam Tea and Darjeeling tea is grown in different terrains. Assam tea is grown in abundance on the low lands of the Northeast India in the loamy soil. Since Darjeeling is situated higher up than Assam, Darjeeling tea is grown on the high lands- on the foothills of Himalayas. On the contrary, the area under tea cultivation in Darjeeling is much lower than in Assam.

2. The Climate in which they are grown

Assam has hot, humid summers and short, cool winters due to its lower altitude. There is also plenty of rainfall. The unique climate in Assam creates a perfect environment for tea cultivation and therefore, most of the tea produced in India comes from Assam. In 2014, this region produced almost 610.97 million kilograms of tea out of the total 1.207 billion kilograms produced in India.

Darjeeling is situated at an altitude of about 6,700ft. The climate of Darjeeling is colder and harsher than the climate of Assam. It gets freezing cold during the winter but it hardly snows within the town limits. This long winter and the harsh weather slow down the growth of tea leaves. Hence production of Darjeeling tea is less in comparison with the Assam tea.

3. The leaves

Tea leaves play a significant role in the identification of a quality tea product. The Assam tea leaves are larger in size when compared to the Darjeeling tea leaves. The Darjeeling tea leaves also have fine hair on the underside, which are lost during the drying process. Additionally, tea leaves of Assam are found to be darker in color as well as glossier than the tea leaves of Darjeeling.

4. Their appearance when they are prepared

The rich and deep-amber color of the Assam tea is famous for its finesse and a perfect cup of tea. It is said that Assam tea is redder and darker when compared with the tea leaves of Darjeeling. Research and experts often say that the color of Darjeeling tea does not change while brewing.

5. The taste and the smell

Assam tea tastes best with milk and sugar. The aroma is smooth, yet sharp with nice deep tones. The flavor is a bit mellow, with a creamy texture and a sweet buttery overlay. Assam tea is generally strong and has a nutty and earthy nuance to it.

Darjeeling tea is slightly spicier than Assam tea. It usually tastes slightly bitter (less than most varieties of tea), and sometimes slightly sour. It is also slightly astringent and makes your mouth feel a tiny bit gritty or dry. Part of what makes Darjeeling tea special is that it tastes different when harvested at different times of year.

6. The Availability factors

Assam tea is grown throughout the year. It is easier to grow and its cultivation is done on a much larger scale than Darjeeling tea. This ensures more availability of Assam tea.

Darjeeling tea has four growing periods, which produce a lesser quantity of produce than Assam tea estates. Therefore, Darjeeling tea is available in a lower quantity than Assam tea.

7. The cost

The cost is a main feature, which plays an important role in differentiating between the two teas. Darjeeling tea involves a shorter harvesting season than that of Assam and is also difficult to grow due to a harsh climate. Hence, it is grown in smaller quantities and is expensive. Since Assam tea is available in more quantity, it costs less.

There also lies a huge difference between Practical and theoretical knowledge. After grabbing all the theoretical differences why not try it yourself. If you call yourself a tea-lover and like to explore options, then you must watch the differences instead of just reading. Go out to a tea shop or buy the tea products and have an aromatic experience of both the teas. It will definitely give you a better understanding between both the types and would acquire a place on your taste buds forever!

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