Tea: Da Hong Pao (High Fire)

Grower: The Chen Family of Wuyishan Rock Tea Village

Origin: Wuyi Mountains in Fujian, China

Cultivation: Natural (Organic, but no certification)

Harvest Date: May 15, 2014

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A classic Chinese tea, Da Hong Pao means "Big Red Robe". The tea is famous for its distinct mineral undertones and sweet-tart dried fruit flavors. This particular lot has powerful charcoal overtones and persistent flavors.

This tea is harvested and crafted on Cindy's family lands on Wuyishan, located at 300-500m elevation. They pick the tea after around 8AM, when the dew has evaporated from the tea leaves. Afterwards, the leaves are withered briefly in the sun to remove excess moisture, before they are rolled and oxidized and high-fired.

The name Da Hong Pao/Big Red Robe comes from tea myths, as is the caes for many Chinese teas. According to legend, an emperor once sent his luxurious robes to protect four tea bushes on Wuyishan, after the tea demonstrated amazing healing qualities for his mother, and saved her life.

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Recommended Brewing Instructions: Use 1tsp (~3g) per 250ml cup.
Brew for 1 minute.

- 195F for a smoother, sweeter profile.

- 205F for a stronger, more complex profile.

This tea can be rebrewed up to 5 times, with hotter water and longer infusions.