Kilinoe Green 2017 (Hawai‘i)

This extraordinary tea garden is Big Island Tea on the Mauna Loa Volcano in Hawai‘i. It’s one of the world’s most exciting boutique gardens, covering just 5 acres and producing an annual crop of 15-25kg. The garden mainly grows varietals from Darjeeling and Japan, on Hawai‘ian volcanic soil.

Eliah and Cam are the owners of the garden. Eliah makes the tea herself, by hand, from fresh leaves to finished tea. Cam is a scientist and ensures a closed loop, sustainable agricultural system on the garden. Lalani & Co have been working with Cam & Eliah since 2010.

The tea plants are located amongst the other plants on this biodiverse garden. Cam’s research points to diversity having a positive impact on tea flavour. This micro garden is the opposite of the large monoculture gardens. It’s small, owner-run, biodiverse and artisan craft.

A fine tea will always tell it’s story to your palate. The young and vibrant plants deliver a lively, fresh profile. The leaves are pan heated, giving a sappy and slightly sweet vegetal character. The Japanese plants add a touch of gentle umami. Then there’s the volcanic Hawai`ian soil, finishing off this tea with a well structured minerality.

Complex and balanced, this tea is on top form as of early 2018, so buy and drink now.