-KH News Desk (cbdigital@imaws.org)
National, May 2023 – Luxmi Tea Company, a renowned name in the world of tea, has launched its exquisiteMakaibariflagship store at Netaji Subhash Chandra International Airport, Kolkata called “The Tasting Room”, catering to tea lovers who appreciate the finer things in life. “The Tasting Room” is designed to offer an elegant and sophisticated environment, where tea enthusiasts can indulge in and experience Makaibari and Luxmi Estate Teas.
With a legacy of over a century, Luxmi Tea Company has been synonymous with premium quality tea, carefully sourced from the finest tea estates across Darjeeling, Tripura, Assam, and Rwanda. The 20 square meter space at the Domestic Terminal of Kolkata is reminiscent of an old British Plantation Bungalow. Experience the allure of Makaibari, where the fusion of Bengal’s architectural influence, captivating interiors, and the legacy of Makaibari’s journey creates an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and enchanting.
The chequered black and white floor arches are reminiscent of Bengal’s architectural heritage, and the lithographic wallpapers transport visitors to a bygone era. The intricate wooden ceilings, panelling, and meticulously designed carpets an extra touch of elegance to the space. Every element within “The Tasting Room” pays homage to Makaibari’s rich history and heritage.Adorning the walls are photographs that narrate the captivating journey of Makaibari, showcasing the legacy of its first beginnings and notable events such as the G20 event. These images serve as a visual testament to the remarkable heritage of Makaibari.
The Makaibari store offers an exquisite selection of unique and rare tea blends, curated by Luxmi Tea Group’s accomplished tea sommeliers, these blends have been carefully crafted using the finest tea leaves, promising an unparalleled taste experience. Whether it’s refreshing green teas, robust black teas, or wellness teas designed to invigorate the senses, the store caters to every palate.
Soon, the store will also feature organic Himalayan honey sourced exclusively from Makaibari, further enhancing the range of offerings. Additionally, the store showcases tea wares, including beautiful tea sets, sourced from local ceramists who collaborated with Luxmi Estates to create exclusive and captivating designs.
Speaking about the opening of “The Tasting Room” and his visionMr. Rudra Chatterjee, MD, Luxmi Tea Group said “Though we have a store in the Bagdogra airport, this is our first major retail tea store in a metropolitan airport. We intend to open similar stores where people enjoy the finest tea. The decision will not be based on revenue but on taste. While visualizing how I wanted the store to be, I wanted people to get a small taste of a tea bungalow living room in the middle of a bustling airport. Now that it is up and running, it truly reminds me of how an estate manager would entertain guests at his Burra bungalow – warm, intimate yet spectacular”.
Luxmi Tea Group’s “The Tasting Room” is the perfect destination for tea connoisseurs, looking to savour the finest tea blends, in a sophisticated and refined setting. The store is now open, and tea enthusiasts can visit and enjoy the unique tea experience.
About Luxmi Tea Group
Established in 1912, when the tea industry was predominantly British, under the tutelage of PC Chatterjee, Luxmi Tea became an Indian movement for self-reliance and as an expression of freedom from the British Raj. It has now come to stand for the freedom of spirit, quality products, and the art of tea crafting. Luxmi’s tea gardens produce the best tea – TV1, Panitola, and Samdang.
Adopting permaculture and organic farming has been the first step to sustainability. Estates have shunned the use of chemical additives and are switching to natural remedies. Every ounce of tea processed is subject to rigorous standard tests and is MRL verified.
About Makaibari
Makaibari has pioneered Organic, Fairtrade, and Biodynamic practices in tea and tropical agriculture; it was the first garden to be certified Organic in 1988, and Fairtrade and Demeter in 1993. Partnership, not ownership” is the idea that inspires most of Makaibari’s Corporate Social responsibility agenda initiatives.
Makaibari is the only tea garden where organic Camellia Sinensis are growing in harmony with the primary sub-tropical rain forests thanks to biodynamic/permaculture practices.
Located in the Kurseong subdivision, in Darjeeling District, Makaibari sustains seven villages and 1.587 people: Kodobari (Millet Fields), Fulbari (Flower Garden), and Koilapani (Blackwater) and Cheptey are on the Western side of the estate, while Makaibari (Cornfields), Thapathali (Thapa Village), and Chungey are situated in the Eastern side