Type: Organic Black Tea (Qimen Hong Cha) Origin: Qimen County, Anhui Province, China (Fair Trade Certified) Grade: Premium Orthodox Ingredients: 100% Organic Black Tea Leaves Caffeine Content: Medium (≈50mg per 8oz cup) Certifications: USDA Organic, Fair Trade Leaf Appearance: Large, tightly twisted threads with coppery-gold tips Flavor Profile Taste: Smooth toasted pine with dark cherry sweetness. Balanced complexity reminiscent of Pinot Noir (earthy fruit + mineral structure) Aroma: Orchid honey, cocoa, and faint smoke Mouthfeel: Velvety with zero astringency Liquor Color: Bright amber-red Aftertaste: Lingering "gān" (sweet retronasal sensation) Key Characteristics Terroir: High-altitude gardens near Huangshan ("Yellow Mountain") Processing: Traditional withering, rolling, oxidation, and basket-firing Sustainability: Ethically sourced from smallholder farmers in Jiangxi Brewing Guide Gongfu Style (90ml gaiwan): - 4g leaves → Rinse 5 sec with 95°C (203°F) water - 1st infusion: 15 sec → Add 5 sec per subsequent steep (6+ infusions) Western Style: - 3g per 250ml teapot - Water: 90°C (194°F) - Steep 3 min → Re-steep 2x (+1 min each) Wellness & Pairings Antioxidants: High in theaflavins (supports heart health) Pairings: Dark chocolate, roasted duck, or cinnamon pastries Morning Alternative: Lighter caffeine kick than coffee Price Breakdown $15.00: 50g pouch (15–20 servings) $45.00: 200g resealable tin $96.00: 500g bulk refill (best value) Storage & Aging Short-term: Airtight tin away from light/heat (use within 18 months) Aging Potential: Develops honeyed notes over 2–3 years (store like wine)Pro Tip: Add a drop of milk to highlight its natural creaminess—rare for Chinese black teas. Why This Keemun? Historical Significance: One of China’s "Ten Famous Teas" since 1875 Affordable Luxury: Complex profile at half the cost of premium Dianhongs Ethical Choice: Fair Trade ensures farmer income + environmental stewardship Note: "Qimen" = Mandarin pronunciation; "Keemun" = colonial-era Anglicization.
