Jun Chiyabari Moondrop Enigma 2026 · Premier Flush

Jun Chiyabari · Moondrop Enigma · FTGFOP1 · First Flush

THE 2026 MOONDROP ENIGMA

A rare Spring Flush from the renowned Jun Chiyabari estate in eastern Nepal, this 2026 release offers an exceptionally pure expression of the P312 cultivar.

Jun Chiyabari means “moonlight on the tea garden” in Nepali. Located in the pristine mountains of eastern Nepal, the estate has pursued the expression of exceptional Himalayan tea since its foundation in 2001.

The estate has developed a strong spirit of experimentation. Originally focused on exploring the character of individual cultivars, Jun Chiyabari has progressively developed a broader expertise in blending different cultivars.

This evolving approach has shaped a distinctive and increasingly refined style. It also highlights the particular value of rare lots made from a single cultivar.

ORIGIN & TERROIR

The 2026 Moondrop Enigma is harvested from a tea-growing area between 2,000 and 2,200 metres above sea level.

It comes from young tea plants of the P312 cultivar. Only downy buds and young leaves are selected, creating a balanced and complete expression.

The high-altitude environment contributes to the tea's distinctive character. Mountain conditions and cool temperatures encourage a slower development of the tea plants.

The result is a tea with remarkable clarity, freshness and aromatic precision.

A RARE EXPRESSION OF P312

Produced in a total quantity of only seven kilograms, this Spring Moondrop Enigma offers an exceptionally rare expression of P312.

A prolonged, low-temperature withering process allows the aromas and flavours to develop with remarkable clarity.

The result is bright, pure and exceptionally refined. Its signature character lies in a delicate sensation of frosted sweetness, supported by a light and airy body.

Its delicate character evokes the elegance of a fine Riesling, with subtle flavours unfolding in successive waves.

True to the Moondrop style, the liquor is clear, luminous and remarkably deep.

TASTING PROFILE

The aromatic profile combines the fresh sweetness of frosted fruits, a gentle fruity acidity and the soft sweetness of floral nectar.

From the first sip, delicate white grape notes spread across the palate. They create a refreshing and subtly cooling sensation.

As the tea is enjoyed slowly, its sweetness becomes increasingly pronounced. The texture remains smooth and silky, while the aromas become deeper and more persistent.

The result is an elegant combination of freshness, sweetness, clarity and persistence.

THE JUN CHIYABARI GARDEN

Jun Chiyabari is located in the Dhankuta district of eastern Nepal, in the Himalayan foothills.

The name refers to a tea garden illuminated by moonlight. According to the story surrounding the estate's name, the founders were inspired by the intense moonlight shining over the hills as they searched for a name for their garden.

The estate's high-altitude environment plays an important role in the character of its teas. Mountain conditions, cool temperatures and misty surroundings contribute to a slower development of the tea plants.

Jun Chiyabari is also known for its experimental approach to tea production. The estate explores different cultivars and processing techniques while developing its own distinctive style.

THE MOONDROP STYLE

Moondrop is one of Jun Chiyabari's distinctive experimental tea styles.

The style is known for its refined aromatic character and carefully controlled processing. Its expression can reveal characteristics that sit between the freshness of lighter teas and the depth of more developed teas.

The result is a clear and luminous liquor with an elegant aromatic profile.

For this 2026 release, the P312 cultivar expresses delicate white grape, frosted fruit, floral nectar and gentle fruit acidity.

CRAFTSMANSHIP

The production of this type of tea requires careful attention at every stage.

Tender buds and young leaves are selected before undergoing a carefully controlled withering process. The prolonged, low-temperature withering helps develop the tea's aromatic clarity and refined sweetness.

The result is a tea with a light body, layered aromas and a remarkably clean finish.