TEA TALK: Darjeeling tea likely to be granted geographical indication

If no objection is raised, Darjeeling tea will be one of hundreds of goods given Geographical Indication status, according to the Economic Times.

Darjeeling tea is from India, right? It is supposed to be, just like Balsamic vinegar is from Modena and true Champagne is from the Champagne region of France. Darjeeling, which is after all considered to be the ‘champagne of teas’ is a slightly floral, delicate black tea, with a light, amber gold color, and a somewhat ‘grape’ aroma. Darjeeling tea leaves are grown on one of 86

Darjeeling tea gardens within India. Unlike other food products which are only allowed to carry an official title when produced in their specific region, Darjeeling tea is not at this point protected by Geographical Indication.

What is Geographical Indication?

Geographical Indication, also known as GI, is used on food, wine, or spirits which can only be made in one geographical location. Generally, these goods were produced in their particular region for decades, if not centuries. When attempts are made to produce the product outside of the region the result is sub-par. For example, with Darjeeling tea, the particular soil and climate conditions, as well as the standards of excellence for the accredited Darjeeling tea gardens yield a superior product. Technically, someone could grow ‘darjeeling’ tea in their backyard in Wisconsin, even using a tea plant from Darjeeling, and try to sell it as darjeeling tea. This infringes on the rights of the original Darjeeling tea producers, thus the request for Geographical Indication.

What Geographical Indication will do for Darjeeling tea

At this point, the European Commission is opening up the debate for public comments as they have found the dossier sent in by the Indian producers valid for receiving the Geographical Indication status. Once passed, only Darjeeling tea from the Darjeeling region of India could be sold within the European Union. This would ensure consumers that they are purchasing Darjeeling tea when a tea is labeled as such. It would basically raise the standard of quality and perception of Darjeeling tea and force producers outside of the region to find a new way to label their product.