Some brands don’t just make products; they make history. And then there is Twinings, which makes both… with elan, expertise and elegance, …a flavour that has lingered on the world’s palate for more than 319 years.

So when Twining, the iconic British tea house unveiled its refreshed chapter for India, it was more than an event. It felt like watching heritage gently swirl into a new era… much like the perfect cup of tea.

The Event

Let’s rewind right back to the beginning, TheGlitz was exclusively invited to an elegant afternoon steeped in heritage, flavour, and artistry for an intimate celebration with Stephen Twining himself, the tenth-generation torchbearer of the iconic Twinings legacy. Hosted at The Lalit Mumbai, the occasion blended old-world charm with contemporary sophistication, marking the unveiling of Twinings’ refreshed packaging, a modern expression of the brand’s 300-year journey in tea mastery and innovation.

Traditional Lamp Lighting

The event was indeed extremely wholesome and at the heart of it all was Stephen Twining, the charming tenth-generation member of the Twining family.

It started with the traditional lamp lighting initiated by the unassuming Master Blending himself, the dynamic Stephen Twining followed by dignitaries from Twinings Asia and Twinings India. Master Blender Stephen Twining spoke about the rich legacy of Twinings and how it has evolved over 319 years. After which, esteemed dignitaries spoke about further about the legacy. It was followed by an amazing unveiling of the Indian packaging of Twinings tea, and of course, soem rapid fire questions from the media.

I, Sumita Chakraborty, Founder & Editor-in-chief, TheGlitz, had the opportunity to meet the Master Blending himself, Stephen Twining at the event, and his warmth was as comforting as a cup of Earl Grey on a rainy afternoon.

Naturally, I had to ask him the question that every tea lover secretly wonders: how does one balance innovation and modernity while carrying a 319-year-old legacy? With the ease of a seasoned master blender, he smiled and explained that tradition and innovation are not opposing flavours, they are complementary notes. According to him, Twinings evolves only to enhance the experience, never to overpower what makes the brand timeless.

Twinings Favourite

I also asked him which blend was his personal favourite. With a twinkle in his eye, as he was in Mumbai, he was in the mood for a calming Green Tea that day. But much like the rhythm of life, his favourites change depending on the moment, the mood, and the place. It was a fitting answer from someone who has spent his life discovering the nuances in every leaf.

The Twinings Tale

The Twinings’ story began in 1706 with a small shop on London’s Strand, but the brand’s commitment to elevating everyday moments has remained unchanged. Today, the company blends tradition with innovation in a way that feels organic, thoughtful, and beautifully steeped in craftsmanship. Behind every cup are Master Blenders, Herbal Experts, and a Research & Innovation team who taste hundreds of cups daily. Each blend undergoes multiple tastings from bush to shelf, ensuring precision, balance, and aromatic consistency, a ritual that has earned Twinings its global reputation.

New Packaging

As Twinings expands its presence in India, it has unveiled an elevated new packaging that reflects a modern global identity. The refreshed design offers clearer communication on flavour notes, provenance, and sensory cues, making it easier for consumers to choose a blend that suits their taste. The sophisticated new look also brings strong shelf appeal, adding a premium touch to the experience.

The carefully curated India portfolio includes beloved classics such as English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Pure Green Tea, Chamomile, Lemon & Ginger, and Assam Second Flush CTC. For discerning tea drinkers who enjoy a mindful steeping ritual, Twinings offers its premium Orthodox loose-leaf tins, featuring Assam Second Flush, Whole Leaf Green Tea, and Darjeeling. As for the future, Twinings India assured ‘chai-lovers’ that the Indian fav “masala tea” too was in the pipeline.

True to its philosophy of creating blends for every mood and moment, Twinings ensures there is a cup for every palate… robust, delicate, soothing, or invigorating.

Health & Well-being

Beyond taste and aroma, Twinings is deeply committed to well-being. Whether it’s energising mornings, mid-day moments of pause, evening relaxation, or intimate conversations shared over tea, the brand aims to enhance daily life with a sense of balance, calm, and positivity. Every blend is crafted with natural ingredients and a technical expertise that reflects three centuries of dedication.

Ethical Sourcing

Equally important is Twinings’ devotion to ethical sourcing. Through its Sourced With Care programme, the brand invests in the communities from which it sources its teas and herbs. From empowering women and improving livelihoods to supporting education and ensuring safe working conditions, Twinings works closely with the Ethical Tea Partnership and sources from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. Behind every soothing cup is a commitment to fairness, dignity, and sustainability.

Chai in India

Stephen Twining’s visit marks a significant chapter for the brand in India, a reaffirmation of its respect for the market, its affection for Indian tea culture, and its promise to continue blending heritage with innovation. As Twinings steps into this refreshed phase with a new visual identity and renewed focus on well-being, one thing remains unchanged: its dedication to creating teas that bring comfort, clarity, and delight, one beautifully crafted cup at a time.

If heritage is the tea, and innovation the hot water, then Twinings proves that when both are blended thoughtfully, the result is timeless.