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Muscatel flavor is a term used to describe the unique taste found in second flush Darjeeling teas. Unlike simple aroma, it refers to the overall flavor profile, combining aroma, taste, and aftertaste.
General understanding
- Often compared to the flavor of ripe muscat grapes.
- Sweet, spicy, and complex character.
- Strongly influenced by Darjeeling’s terroir, especially the misty weather during May and June.
The “Moscatel sherry” theory
Some argue that the term does not originate from “muscat grapes” but rather from Moscatel sherry, a fortified wine made from muscat varieties in Spain and Portugal. Its sweet, raisin-like and slightly nutty profile is closer to the actual impression of Darjeeling’s muscatel flavor.
Importance in tea
- Considered a signature of Darjeeling’s identity.
- Rare outside Darjeeling, reinforcing its terroir value.
- Lots with strong muscatel flavor often fetch the highest auction prices.
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マスカテルフレーバー：日本語版です。
マスカテルフレーバー：紅茶と科学版。マスカテルフレーバーについてのダイジェスト版です。
マスカテルフレーバー(１)：紅茶の発展的研究版。マスカテルフレーバーについてのFull版です。
マスカテルフレーバー (２)