Facts This handmade Ruby / Red Jade Black Tea, also known as Taiwan Tea No. 18, originates from Hsinchu, Taiwan. The tea bushes are a hybrid of Taiwan's native wild camellia and Myanmar’s large-leaf varietal, growing untamed for eight years at an altitude of 300 – 400 meters in rocky terrain. Limited cultivation and yield make this tea a true rarity. Source Handcrafted by an elder passionate about nature, this tea is made from old tea trees found near his home in undeveloped forests. Each step of production—from hand-plucking to careful processing—is done manually, preserving the essence of the natural environment. The resulting tea is delicate, smooth, and imbued with a nurturing energy. Every batch is produced in extremely limited quantities only. Flavor Profile Renowned for its signature honey and minty notes, Ruby Black Tea often presents a bold and overt flavor. However, this wild-farmed version offers a refined and understated profile, influenced by its pure environment and meticulous craftsmanship. The aroma unfolds subtly, revealing floral and honey notes, followed by earthy undertones that echo the spirit of the land. Its liquor is smooth, warm, and harmoniously balanced, creating a serene and introspective drinking experience. Drinking Suggestion Elegant and composed, this tea invites quiet contemplation and inner balance. Whether enjoyed during a peaceful evening or a tranquil afternoon, it provides a grounding presence, helping to harmonize emotions and restore equilibrium. Gongfu Style Use 2 – 2.5 g of tea leaves with 100 ml of water at 100° C. Steep for 20 seconds on the first infusion, increasing by 5 – 10 seconds thereafter. Western Style Use 3 g of tea leaves with 500 ml of water and steep for 3 – 5 minutes. Why We Share This Tea The first sip of this Ruby Black Tea revealed a remarkable ability to address inner imbalances for me, offering a sense of deep nourishment and harmony. Its handcrafted production balances the bold character of the Ruby varietal, softening its intensity while preserving its vitality. This tea demonstrates the transformative potential of traditional methods, offering a new perspective on the varietal’s possibilities. Beyond this tea, we offer three additional handcrafted black teas from the same artisan, each showcasing unique varietals, flavors, and craftsmanship: Red Wild № 16, Mountain Echo № 18, Healing Glow № 19. Every tea promises an equally enriching journey of exploration and appreciation.
