Origin: China

Plucking Season: Summer

Introduction: Black Peony is a handcrafted black tea representing an old artform of hand-tied teas.

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.

Handcrafted Old-Style
In making Black Peony, only long tippy leaves are chosen, then baked in direct sun and gently bruised by twisting hand movements. The bruising facilitates ‘oxidization’ whereby, the leaf starts to change color from green to dark. Old style handcrafting includes tying the leaves with a thread and shaping it into a rosette. A light baking is performed to complete the process. When infused the leaves blossom into the shape of a flower resembling a Peony.

Season
Although the Black Peony can be made at several times in the year, Black teas from Hunan are at their best in the summer. Black Peony is a very hardy tea and keeps well over the months.

Flavor Profile: Smooth texture, full bodied, earthy, cacao flavor with subtle roasted undertones.

Certified Organic by: Quality Assurance International (QAI)

Brewing Suggestions