Golden Needles Premium Black Tea

Yunnan Golden Needles Premium is a high-quality black tea from Yunnan province.
It is one of the best black teas we have had the pleasure of tasting, with beautiful, delicate, and elegant leaves. The tea is harvested from ancient tea trees in the region, which contribute to its unique flavor profile. The leaves are carefully hand-picked and processed to preserve their delicate structure and vibrant color. Yunnan Golden Needles are the fully oxidized young buds with a flavor reminiscent of prunes and maple syrup. 

A truly exquisite tea.

If you enjoy pure bud teas with malt and chocolate sweetness, this tea might be perfect for you!

Tasting Notes

Yunnan Golden Needles black tea is known for its rich and complex flavor:
- Aroma: The dry leaves have a sweet, malty aroma with hints of honey and dried fruit.
- Flavor: When brewed, the tea offers a full-bodied, smooth taste with prominent notes of malt, cocoa, and a natural sweetness reminiscent of caramel. There are also subtle hints of spice, earthiness, and occasionally a floral undertone.
- Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a sweet and slightly spicy aftertaste.

Health Benefits

Yunnan Golden Needles black tea provides several health benefits:
- Antioxidants: High in polyphenols, which combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart Health: Regular consumption may help lower cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.
- Digestive Aid: Known to aid digestion and soothe the stomach.
- Mental Clarity: Contains caffeine, which enhances alertness and focus.
- Weight Management: May assist in weight management 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 Needles 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 golden needles 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 Needles Black Tea can typically be steeped multiple times (3-4 infusions or more) using this method, with each infusion revealing different layers of its sweetness and maltiness.

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 Needles Black Tea for 3-4 minutes. This longer steeping time allows the tea leaves to fully unfurl and release their sweet and malty flavors into the larger volume of water, resulting in a rich and aromatic cup of tea.

Cultural Significance

Yunnan Golden Needles black tea holds significant cultural value in China:
- Heritage: It comes from Yunnan, a region with a rich tea history and ancient tea trees, adding to its prestige.
- Ceremony: Often used in Chinese tea ceremonies, it symbolizes refinement and the art of tea making.
- Gift: Its high quality and visual appeal make it a popular gift, symbolizing respect, health, and good fortune.

Conclusion

Yunnan Golden Needles black tea is a testament to the artistry and heritage of Chinese tea cultivation. Its distinct characteristics, rich flavor profile, and numerous health benefits make it a cherished tea among enthusiasts. Brewing this tea with care allows one to experience its full range of flavors and appreciate its cultural significance.

• Collected: 2024
• Origin: Fengqing County, Yunnan province, China
• Taste: Roasted and chocolatey with notes of red apple and hibiscus.