Rizhu

It is by no coincidence that one may recognise the tight curls of the prolific gunpowder green in this tea. This one comes from Shaoxing Prefecture in Northern Zhejiang, the regional hub for gunpowder (zhu cha) production. While most of the tea production here are in large industrial quantities for export, this premium grade demonstrates the finer qualities of this tea-making region. A local tea with a history, Rizhu is not a commonly known tea in China but locally it has been enjoyed for centuries for it brews a soft and savory infusion of pearlescent texture, that contains minerals of dark leafy greens, notes of peanuts, and a slight piquancy of green apples.
  • ORIGIN:  Pingshui, Keqiao, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
  • MEANING:  A mountain range (rizhu), lit. sun cast (ri zhu)
  • CULTIVAR:  Zhong Cha 108
  • HARVEST TIME:  20 March 2023
  • TASTE:  Kale, peanuts, green apple
1
$18.75

Preparation

IN THE TEAPOT
  • Quantity: 6g / 500ml
  • Water temperature: 80°C
  • Infusion time: 3-4 min
GONGFU CHA METHOD
  • Quantity: 2g / 150ml
  • Water temperature: 80°C
  • 3 infusions: 60, 60, 90 sec

For best results in gongfu cha, brew in a tall glass and fill with water before adding the leaves. Too high water temperature would burn the leaves, resulting in bitter taste.