While it is categorized as "black tea" one of the unique features of Darjeeling is that it actually ranges from green to oolong to black in every batch. During the oxidation process (the level of oxidation tea undergoes is one of the key differences between green, oolong and black teas) Darjeeling tea is infrequently raked or mixed. This means that some parts of the tea are not exposed to as much air as others, leaving these less oxidized parts closer to the green end of the spectrum. Looking at loose Darjeeling, one can see this mix of color shades in the leaves.

The mixed nature of Darjeeling leads to complex nutty and "muscatel" flavors not ordinarily found in black teas. Perhaps one of the reasons that Darjeeling is known as the the "Champagne of teas."

While it certainly can be sweetened or lightened, most Darjeeling fans enjoy the tea without milk or sugar. Unlike actual Champagne, it is difficult to imagine a time of day that is not a good time to enjoy the "Champagne of teas."