Country of Origin: China
Leaf Appearance: varied greens and browns with some buds
Ingredients: white tea
Steep time: 30 seconds
Water Temperature: 180 degrees
Preparation Method: glass gaiwan
Liquor: gold
The first time I tried this tea using a good ol’ teapot and the directions provided, I was slightly underwhelmed. It’s not that it was bad but it just didn’t jump out at me. Not being one to give up after the first go, I thought that it might perform better in my glass gaiwan. I’m very happy to report that my hunch was right. The taste was light and refreshing with cooling notes of honeydew melon. A honey-like sweetness lingered in the aftertaste. There was no bitterness or astringency to speak of. I was able to get at least six infusions so these leaves definitely had some staying power. Something tells me that this would also make a great cold brew iced tea. If only there were more leaves left to play with! It can be hard to know if your tea is sourced in a way that respects the people who produce it. I was happy to see that this tea is Fair Trade Certified. The premiums are used by the growers in Hunan for equipment purchases and much needed public works and sanitation projects.
Premium White Peony sample provided by Little Red Cup Tea Company.