Golden Snail Black Tea

Golden Snail, a black tea from Yunnan Province, is a testament to the artistry of tea making. Its name comes from the appearance of the dry tea leaves, which are carefully rolled into spirals, resembling tiny snails. This unique rolling process allows the tea leaves to unfurl slowly over the course of two to three steepings, offering multiple high-quality infusions. 

Prepare to indulge your senses with this Golden Snail tea. It offers a rich, thirst-quenching taste, with delightful notes of fruit and dried apricot, complemented by hints of caramel. 

The first note of its aroma is the rich aroma of pekoe, which, when brewed, turns into a sweet, ripe fruity aroma. The liquid is bright and transparent, with a strong honey aroma with a characteristic note of chocolate.

Tasting Notes

Yunnan Golden Snail black tea is celebrated for its complex and rich flavor:
- Aroma: The dry leaves emit a warm, sweet aroma with hints of malt, honey, and a touch of floral notes.
- Flavor: Upon brewing, the tea offers a smooth, full-bodied taste with prominent notes of malt and caramel. There is a natural sweetness, with undertones of cocoa, honey, and a slight hint of fruitiness. Some batches may also present a subtle spicy note.
- Finish: The finish is clean and lingering, leaving a pleasant, sweet aftertaste that invites another sip.

Health Benefits

Yunnan Golden Snail black tea provides numerous health benefits:
- Antioxidants: Rich in polyphenols, which help fight oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Cardiovascular Health: May aid in improving heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure.
- Digestive Aid: Known to help with digestion and soothe the stomach.
- Mental Alertness: Contains caffeine, which can improve focus and mental clarity.
- Weight Management: May support weight management efforts by boosting metabolism and promoting fat oxidation.

Brewing Tips

Chinese Gongfu Method (5oz / 150ml):

1. Tea Leaf-to-Water Ratio: Use approximately 5-7 grams of Yunnan Golden Snail Black Tea for 150 ml (5 oz) of water. This ratio allows for a higher concentration suitable for Gongfu brewing.

2. Water Temperature: Heat water to around 90-95°C (194-203°F). This temperature range helps to extract the full-bodied flavors and aroma of the black tea.

3. Brewing Time:
   - First Infusion: Steep for about 30-40 seconds. This initial short steeping time allows the twisted golden buds to unfurl and release their flavors gradually.
   - Subsequent Infusions: Increase the steeping time slightly for each subsequent infusion. For example, steep for 40-50 seconds for the second infusion, then adjust based on taste preference. Yunnan Golden Snail Black Tea can typically be steeped multiple times (3-4 infusions or more) using this method, with each infusion bringing out different layers of its maltiness and sweetness.

Cup Method (8.8oz / 250ml):

1. Tea Leaf-to-Water Ratio: Adjust based on personal preference for tea strength. 

2. Water Temperature: Use water just below boiling, around 95°C (203°F).

3. Brewing Time:
   - Steep Time: Steep Yunnan Golden Snail Black Tea for 3-4 minutes. This longer steeping time allows the tea leaves to fully unfurl and release their rich, malty flavors into the larger volume of water, resulting in a robust and aromatic cup of tea.

Cultural Significance

Yunnan Golden Snail black tea holds an important place in Chinese tea culture:
- Heritage: Originating from Yunnan, a region with a rich history of tea cultivation, it carries the legacy of ancient tea trees and traditional processing methods.
- Ceremony: Often featured in traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.
- Gift: Due to its high quality and appealing appearance, it is often given as a gift to convey respect, good fortune, and health.

Conclusion

Yunnan Golden Snail black tea is a prime example of the craftsmanship and rich heritage of Chinese tea production. Its unique appearance, complex flavor profile, and health benefits make it a highly sought-after tea among connoisseurs. By following proper brewing techniques, one can fully appreciate the delicate nuances and cultural significance of this exceptional tea.

• Collected: 2024
• Origin: Yunnan Province, China
• Taste: Rich, thirst-quenching taste, with delightful notes of fruit and dried apricot, complemented by hints of caramel.