Origin: Nan Yue Heng Shan, Hunnan Province, China

Plucking Season: Early Summer

Introduction: Also known as 'Yin Zhen', Silver Needles is an organic, famous white tea with rich tea history.

White Tea
Known as ‘Bai Cha’ in Chinese, white teas are made ony from the newly sprouted ‘buds’ of the tea plant. These buds have silvery white hair ‘down’ that provide a honey texture to the brew. The buds are ‘heat braised’ in covered pans or dried in direct sun with minimal or no oxidization. Very low in caffeine content.

Varietal & Technique
Original White teas are native to areas of China’s Fujian province. Recently, more areas in China and in other tea countries have started to process white tea and each has its distinct flavor profile.

Hunan
Hunan is located in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River and south of Lake Dongting (hence, its name meaning ‘South of the lake’). The well known attractions in Hunan include Changsha - main city, Dongting - a famous lake, Yueyang - historical tower and Mt. Hengshan and Taohua Yuan - nature reserve. Hunan is also famous for its spicy food. Silver Needles is grown on the southern mountain of Nán Yuè Héng Shan -- known locally as Nán Yuè (Southern Mountain) or Héng Shan, one of the five sacred peaks (symbolizing the four directions and the center) of Daoism. It was believed that these peaks were supernatural channels connecting heaven and earth. For Daoists, mountains were the sites where qì (cosmic energy) was at its most refined; herbs and minerals -- the ingredients of health and longevity elixirs -- were found on mountains.

Season
Although, Silver Needles can be made at several times in the year, the young buds are best in spring. If stored well (airtight in dark low humidity), the buds retain flavor over time.

Flavor Profile: Roasted chestnut and wild honey aroma with a delicate, lingering honeysuckle sweetness.

Certified Organic by: Quality Assurance International (QAI)

Brewing Suggestions