Amba Estate
At Route 636 Tea Co., we believe that every cup of tea tells a story of its origin—the land, the people, and the traditions that cultivate it. Our partnership with Amba Estate embodies this philosophy, bringing you teas with exceptional flavor, rich in tradition, and ethically produced.
Meet the Growers
Nestled in the picturesque Uva Highlands of Sri Lanka, Amba Estate is a small-scale, organic farm producing artisanal teas. The estate is managed by a passionate team, including Sanka and Nalani, who oversee daily operations to ensure the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Their skilled tea maker, Neethanjana Senadheera Tharuka, plays a crucial role in crafting award-winning teas that are celebrated worldwide for their unique character and depth.
The Estate
Spanning just 25 acres in the serene valley of Ambadandegama, Amba Estate sits at an elevation of approximately 3,280 feet (1,000 meters). This altitude, combined with a mild climate and fertile, well-draining soil, creates the perfect environment for cultivating distinctive teas. The estate's commitment to organic farming practices ensures that the land remains vibrant and productive, supporting not only tea plants but also a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Sustainable and Ethical Practices
Amba Estate's dedication to sustainability is evident in their holistic approach to farming. They employ organic methods, utilizing homemade compost and natural sprays while strictly avoiding chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Manual weeding and the integration of nitrogen-fixing plants among the tea bushes further exemplify their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Beyond their agricultural practices, Amba Estate places a strong emphasis on social responsibility. They have implemented a profit-sharing structure, allocating 10% of the estate's revenues to their employees, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and community. Additionally, initiatives like the Ambadandegama Chutney Cooperative empower retired tea pickers by providing opportunities to produce chutneys and preserves, supplementing their incomes and enriching the local economy.
Experience the Craftsmanship
We invite you to experience the exceptional teas crafted by Amba Estate:
- Vangedi Pekoe : A hand-rolled black tea offering a harmonious blend of rich, malty flavors with subtle notes of fruit and spice.
- Ravana’s Uva Brew: A bright, citrusy black breakfast tea with malty depth and subtle pine notes, hand-rolled in small batches to capture the bold spirit of Sri Lanka’s Uva Highlands.
- Sri Lankan Black Tea Duo: Featuring Ravana’s Uva Brew and Vangedi Pekoe, this duo showcases the diverse and captivating flavors of Sri Lankan black teas.
Each sip delivers a delightful sensory experience and connects you to the dedicated individuals and sustainable practices behind its creation.
By choosing Amba Estate teas through Route 636 Tea Co., you are supporting a partnership that values quality, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. Together, we celebrate the art of tea-making while making a positive impact on both the land and the communities that nurture these exceptional teas.