Songyang Xiang Cha 2024
This tea is a good example of an everyday tea without compromises. Its thin, dark leaves release aromas of seaweed nori, the dried salty kind that anticipates a mouthful of umami. A dousing of warm water opens them up, revealing waves of leafy greens and a distinctly savory character that resembles sencha before a walnut note confirms its roasting. It's a hearty soup to accompany savory meals or to contrast sweet snacks.
- ORIGIN: Songyang, Lishui, Zhejiang, China
- MEANING: Songyang fragrant tea (songyang xiang cha)
- CULTIVAR: Long Jing No.43
- HARVEST TIME: 11 March 2024
- TASTE: Leafy greens, walnut, seaweed nori
IN THE TEAPOT
- Quantity: 6g / 500ml
- Water temperature: 80°C
- Infusion time: 4 min
GONGFU CHA METHOD
- Quantity: 3g / 100ml
- Water temperature: 80°C
- 3 infusions: 60, 60, 90 sec
For best results in gongfu cha, brew in a tall glass and fill with water before adding the leaves. Too high water temperature would burn the leaves, resulting in bitter taste.