For those familiar with our previous offerings, this Xinyang Maojian will be a welcome return—a brisk and clean tea from the alpine regions of Henan. True to its 'downy buds' namesake, this particular vintage reveals a character defined more by its leaves than its buds. Plucked at the cusp of spring and summer, just as the rainy season began, its dark, twisted leaves unfurl to release a nutty and vegetal aroma reminiscent of roasted soybean and fresh green beans. The resulting liquor is vigorous and pleasantly astringent, imparting a dry mouthfeel, not unlike that of a well-hopped beer.
Written by Sigi
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.