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Indonesia, often celebrated as the “Spice Islands,” is home to a wealth of natural flavors and aromas. PT Perkebunan Tambi has successfully harnessed this legacy through its innovative Heritage Series, which highlights the rich diversity of Indonesia’s spices blended with premium teas. One standout product in this series is Bagaskara, a unique combination of black tea and purwoceng, a renowned local herb from the Dieng Plateau in Wonosobo, Central Java. This article explores Bagaskara’s essence, its cultural significance, and the remarkable balance it strikes between tradition and innovation.

The Heritage Series and Bagaskara

As a key product within the Heritage Series, Bagaskara exemplifies the series’ mission: to preserve Indonesia’s rich heritage while introducing it to modern tea enthusiasts. The word “Bagaskara,” which means “sunlight” in Javanese, reflects the vitality and warmth that this tea brings to its drinkers.

Bagaskara is a blend of high-quality black tea and purwoceng, an herbal plant native to the highlands of Wonosobo. Purwoceng is not just an ordinary herb—it has long been recognized in traditional medicine for its ability to enhance vitality, particularly for men. By incorporating this local treasure into their black tea, PT Perkebunan Tambi has created a product that embodies the health benefits of traditional ingredients with the comforting experience of a premium tea.

See Other Catalog: Volka Tea

The Unique Blend: Black Tea and Purwoceng

Black Tea: The Foundation

The base of Bagaskara is Tambi’s signature black tea, grown in the fertile slopes of Mount Sindoro and Mount Sumbing. These volcanic soils and the high-altitude environment produce tea leaves that are rich in flavor and aroma. Black tea is known for its robust, earthy taste and warming qualities, which serve as the perfect foundation for Bagaskara’s complex flavor profile.

Purwoceng: The Star Ingredient

Purwoceng, scientifically known as Pimpinella pruatjan, is a medicinal plant indigenous to Indonesia. Traditionally consumed as a tonic, purwoceng has been praised for its potential to boost energy and male vitality. Its distinct earthy and slightly spicy notes complement the boldness of black tea, resulting in a harmonious blend that offers both comfort and rejuvenation.

By combining these two ingredients, Bagaskara delivers a tea-drinking experience that is as flavorful as it is functional.

Flavor Profile

Bagaskara is a sensory journey that captures the essence of the Dieng Plateau. The flavors can be described as:

• Earthy: A grounding note that comes from the purwoceng and the black tea, offering a deep and rich taste.
• Spicy: Subtle hints of spice from the purwoceng enhance the tea’s warmth.
• Warm: A soothing and enveloping quality that makes Bagaskara ideal for relaxation or chilly evenings.

The tea’s aroma is equally captivating, with its mix of herbal and earthy notes creating an inviting and nostalgic scent.

Health Benefits

Bagaskara is more than just a delicious beverage—it’s also a healthful one. The combination of black tea and purwoceng provides a range of benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Black tea is known for its antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and support overall health.
• Energy Boost: Purwoceng is traditionally used to enhance energy and stamina, making this tea a natural choice for those seeking vitality.
• Stress Relief: The warm, soothing qualities of Bagaskara help promote relaxation, making it a perfect drink for winding down after a busy day.

These benefits make Bagaskara not only a nod to Indonesia’s herbal traditions but also a functional beverage for modern lifestyles.

Cultural Significance

Bagaskara’s use of purwoceng highlights the importance of preserving local traditions and biodiversity. Purwoceng has long been a part of Javanese herbal medicine, and its inclusion in this tea is a way of keeping that heritage alive.

Moreover, Bagaskara represents a bridge between generations. While younger audiences may not be familiar with purwoceng’s traditional uses, its modern presentation in the form of a premium tea makes it more accessible and appealing. This blend of old and new ensures that cultural practices are not forgotten but are instead celebrated in innovative ways.

Sustainability and Local Empowerment

PT Tambi is committed to sustainability and community empowerment, both of which are evident in the creation of Bagaskara. The purwoceng used in the blend is sourced from local farmers in Wonosobo, ensuring that the production supports the livelihoods of those who cultivate this unique herb.

Additionally, the tea plantations of PT Perkebunan Tambi are managed with a focus on environmental conservation. By promoting sustainable farming practices, the company not only produces high-quality tea but also preserves the natural beauty of the Dieng Plateau for future generations.

The Art of Crafting Bagaskara

Creating Bagaskara is a meticulous process that requires both expertise and passion. The tea leaves are carefully handpicked to ensure optimal quality, while the purwoceng is harvested and prepared to maintain its natural properties.

Once the ingredients are ready, they are blended with precision to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and aromas. The result is a tea that reflects the dedication and craftsmanship of everyone involved in its production.

A Tea for All Occasions

Bagaskara is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions:

• Morning Boost: Start your day with the energizing warmth of Bagaskara.
• Afternoon Refreshment: Enjoy a calming cup during a midday break.
• Evening Relaxation: Unwind with the soothing flavors of Bagaskara after a long day.

Its balanced flavor profile also makes it an excellent choice for pairing with traditional Indonesian snacks, such as kue lapis or klepon.

Other Catalot from Tambi: Regular Tea

Conclusion

Bagaskara is more than just a tea—it’s a celebration of Indonesia’s rich heritage and natural bounty. As part of PT Perkebunan Tambi’s Heritage Series, it showcases the company’s dedication to blending tradition with innovation.

By combining the robust flavors of black tea with the unique qualities of purwoceng, Bagaskara offers a drinking experience that is both nostalgic and contemporary. It invites tea lovers to explore the richness of Indonesia’s cultural and botanical treasures, one cup at a time.

Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or someone looking for a functional yet flavorful beverage, Bagaskara is a journey worth embarking on. With its earthy, spicy, and warm notes, this tea encapsulates the spirit of the Dieng Plateau and the enduring charm of Indonesia’s spice heritage.