I think for Indian packers the estates are under contract. I think for British blends it is auction. I don't see fake darjeeling under contract or auction. I think the problem is downstream through the independent wholesaler where a retailer wants their brand name.
Jim
Scott Dorsey wrote:
On the box of Lipton Green label I just bought it clearly has the Darjeeling logo, and does not say "100% Darjeeling" anywhere but clearly states that it is pure DJ. The ingredients state: "Black Darjeeling Leaf Tea" and on the front it says: "Premium Quality" "Darjeeling Leaf" there are no stories or writing about misty mountains or anything on the package. The tea is very fresh and appears to contain some very long leaf pieces.
I'm very pleased with it for what it is, I have had better DJ for sure, but this particular box of green label seems fresher and higher quality than my last box... I'll check out the TATA brand next time I'm out that way and see how it compares on this lower level.
- Dominic Drinking: Lipton Green Label DJ
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