Bug-Bitten Organic Tea

In April 2025, an exciting and rare discovery from our organic tea unit in Arunachal Pradesh led to the creation of this experimental bug-bitten white tea. A localized infestation of Jacobiasca formosana (green leafhopper) – the same insect responsible for Taiwan’s famous Oriental Beauty tea – prompted us to craft a micro-lot using leaves from only 6-7 bushes, producing an ultra-rare, small-batch tea.

This bug-bitten tea underwent a minimalist production process with gentle withering and slow drying, preserving the unique aroma compounds generated by the leafhopper’s activity. The feeding triggers oxidative stress, enhancing monoterpene diols and hotrienol, resulting in a distinct fruity and honeyed aroma.

Tasting Notes

✓ Liquor: Bright, clear infusion with a soft golden hue
✓ Flavor: Fruity punch with a lingering sweetness
✓ Aroma: Unique and complex, with hints of natural honey and fruit

This limited-edition batch showcases the potential of bug-bitten tea craftsmanship and represents a new expression of Northeast India’s terroir. Only a handful of batches were produced, making it a rare collector’s tea.

Availability: Extremely limited – one-time batch from a unique natural occurrence.