Da Hong Pao Oolong Tea

Da Hong Pao

This tea is from the spectacular province of Fujian on the Southeast coast of China famed for its Oolong teas, and is also known as ‘Big Red Robe’. It has tightly curled dark brown leaves, which unfurl when brewed to release a complex fragrance with a rich, smoky and slightly floral flavour.

It is traditionally brewed in China using a Gawain but using a normal tea infuser works perfectly well too.

There is an interesting story behind the name of this tea. During the Ming Dynasty the mother of the Emperor fell ill. After drinking a cup of tea she was cured. To pay tribute to the tea, the Emperor ordered that the plants from which it came should be covered with red robes to ensure their survival through the winter. This is where the name Big Red Robe comes from.

The four original plants were grown on a cliff named Nine Dragons Cave on Wuyi Mountain. Da Hong Pao sold today is made from plants grown using clippings from the original plants.

Brewing Guide

3-4g in an average sized teapot, use boiled water cooled to 85˚C. Infuse for 30 seconds and discard first brew. Re-steep and infuse for 1-3 minutes, depending on taste. Re-steep up to 3 times.

Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.