Dahongpao Oolong Tea  (Wuyi Rock Tea, Big Red Robe)

Dahongpao

Dahongpao (大红袍) is a highly prized oolong tea from the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian, and the most revered member of the Wuyi Rock Tea category (武夷岩茶). Historically, this tea has been venerated by Chinese royalty, especially when harvested from the original, ancient trees on Wuyi Mountain, of which 6 remain today. It has often been presented as an executive gift to esteemed foreign dignitaries.

The dark, twisted leaves of Dahongpao are a result of processing that includes oxidation through gentle agitation (做青), pan-roasting to halt oxidation (杀青), kneading (揉捻), and finally baking/roasting (焙火). These steps stimulate enzymatic activity (distinct from fermentation), and result in a complex flavour & aroma, a characteristic dark orange liquor, and an astringent mouth-feel. Dahongpao has a unique mineral-rich aftertaste (岩韵), reflecting the essence of the rocky soil of its growing medium, a result of unique geology, soil structure and microclimate. 

Our Dahongpao is grown on Wuyi Mountain, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site in Fujian province, far from heavy industry.