Idulgashinna Estate

Idulgashinna is the longest-standing biodynamic tea estate in Sri Lanka and one of the highest-elevation gardens in Uva Province. Operated by the Stassen / Bio Foods group, it was an early convert to organic and Demeter-certified biodynamic cultivation and remains a reference point for ethically managed high-grown Ceylon tea, particularly for European buyers who prioritise certification alongside cup quality.

The estate was established in the late 19th century, when Uva Province was being rapidly developed for tea after the collapse of Ceylon's coffee industry. It sits on steep ridges in the Welimada / Haputale uplands, where the cool, dry 'Uva season' winds in July and August produce the distinctive 'Uva flavour' - a slightly menthol, dry, savoury character that sets the region's high-grown teas apart from those of Dimbula or Nuwara Eliya.

Idulgashinna converted to organic farming in the 1980s and to full biodynamic management shortly afterward, making it one of the earliest gardens of either kind in South Asia. Demeter certification has been maintained continuously since then.

On the tea side, Idulgashinna is best known for its Uva-season black teas - high-grown orthodox leaf with the typical brisk, slightly woody character - alongside organic green and silver tip whites.

Signature teas

• Idulgashinna Uva OP
• Organic Silver Tips
• Biodynamic Green Ceylon

Certifications

Organic · Biodynamic (Demeter) · Fair Trade

Visiting

The estate occasionally hosts buyers and visitors through the Bio Foods / Stassen group.