Wuyi Da Hong Pao Tea

Emperor's Choice

Today I had the Wuyi Da Hong Pao brewed with the energy rock mineral gaiwan at the Tea Expo sponsored by Fang Gourmet Tea. It tasted even more rich and mellow than ordinary tea ware, warm and moist caressing the throat.

The hand made energy rock mineral gaiwan created by master Da Hua brought out the unique characteristics of aged tea and rock tea to the fullest.  The chi of tea was most evident.  The beautiful gaiwan glitters under light with metallic shine resulting from the high temperature firing.

Da Hong Pao originated from the Jiu Long (Nine Dragon) Cave, Tien Shin Yan of Wuyi mountain.  Due to the unique and exceptional natural environment along with exquisite and skillful tea processing technique, Da Hong Pao is named the “King of Chinese Tea” for its excellent quality.

Da Hong Pao is a half fermented tea that has been used as tribute to the imperial family since the Yuan and Ming Dynasties.  Its tea color is a beautiful clear yellow, with a taste that is rich and mellow with evident “rock” aftertaste.  Its characteristics are “alive, sweet, pure, fragrant” with strong and enduring aftertaste.  Even after 9 infusions, the osmanthus aroma still persists thus the name “saint of tea” among oolong teas.

Since Da Hong Pao is most precious, the tea is only used for prestigious guests.  In 1972, when ex-president Nixon visited China, the leader of China at the time, Mao, gave him 150 grams of the Original Da Hong Pao.  Nixon privately complained, obviously not knowing the rarity of such tea.  It was then explained to Nixon that the leader already gave him half of the country!  After knowing the origin and the value of Da Hong Pao, Nixon was then grateful with deep respect.