Iliós Aurora Oolong

The Iliós Aurora is the pinnacle of the 2026 First Flush Darjeeling harvest. This unique, highly Tippy Oolong is sourced exclusively from the elite AV2 clone — the most coveted lineage in Darjeeling, renowned for its intense sweetness and structure.

The resulting cup is profoundly balanced, opening with a luminous golden-yellow liquor. The palate is immediately captivated by a wave of layered honey sweetness and delicate florals, underpinned by an exquisitely clean and full-bodied flavour — notably without any hint of astringency.

This exceptional quality stems from the high-elevation gardens, where the AV2 bushes emerge from four months of deep winter dormancy. The spring flush yields a profusion of young, vibrant shoots, meticulously hand-plucked by artisans to secure only the finest buds and leaves. Slow growth, intensified by the cool, dry weather, concentrates the flavour before a careful, measured oxidation process locks in every exquisite note of this rare spring expression.

The Craft

• Cultivar: AV2 bushes
• Oxidation: Mildly oxidised with post rolling
• Speciality: Hand-picked and sufficiently oxidised to ensure exquisite flavours are prominently present

Sensory Profile

• Taste: Mouthful, mellow, honey sweet and pleasant fruity flavour
• Aroma: Fresh aroma of Darjeeling high mountain
• Liquor colour: Bright yellow

Brewing Fundamentals

• Water: Always use fresh, filtered water
• Leaves: Use one teaspoon (approximately 2.5g) per cup
• Serving: Best enjoyed pure (no milk)
• Designed for multiple infusions

Our Philosophy — The Art of the Whole Leaf Tea

Darjeeling Tea was meant to be an encounter, not a commodity. At Iliós, we honour the true character of Camellia sinensis, preserving the integrity of every whole leaf.

Our Commitment — Beyond the Bag

At Iliós Tea Studio, we work exclusively with whole, hand-plucked leaves, often only the bud and youngest leaves, to preserve the plant's natural structure, balance, and integrity from garden to cup.

Steeping Protocol

• Temperature: 85–90°C (185–195°F)
• Steep time: 3–4 minutes
• Quantity: 1 teaspoon (approximately 2–2.5g) per cup