Makaibari Tea Estate

The Story

Established in 1859, Makaibari (“Cornfield”) is not just a tea garden; it is a philosophy. Under the legendary stewardship of Rajah Banerjee (4th Generation), it became the world’s first certified Organic tea garden in 1988 and the first Biodynamic garden in 1993.

The estate operates on the principles of Permaculture and Rudolf Steiner’s Biodynamics, treating the entire 1,573 acres as a single living organism. Uniquely, they maintain 70% of their land as virgin forest, growing tea on only 30%. This radical ratio means the tea leaves absorb the aromatics of the surrounding jungle—orchids, herbs, and fruit trees—resulting in a “Muscatel” that is literally born of the ecosystem.

Certifications

Demeter (Biodynamic), USDA Organic

Demeter (Biodynamic), USDA Organic

The Story

Established in 1859, Makaibari (“Cornfield”) is not just a tea garden; it is a philosophy. Under the legendary stewardship of Rajah Banerjee (4th Generation), it became the world’s first certified Organic tea garden in 1988 and the first Biodynamic garden in 1993.

The estate operates on the principles of Permaculture and Rudolf Steiner’s Biodynamics, treating the entire 1,573 acres as a single living organism. Uniquely, they maintain 70% of their land as virgin forest, growing tea on only 30%. This radical ratio means the tea leaves absorb the aromatics of the surrounding jungle—orchids, herbs, and fruit trees—resulting in a “Muscatel” that is literally born of the ecosystem.

Certifications

Demeter (Biodynamic), USDA Organic

Additional Info

  • Region
    South Darjeeling
  • Elevation Range
    2,000 ft – 4,500 ft
  • Tea Board Registration No
    2245
  • Factory Code
    MK
  • Authenticity Check
    Verified

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