Mingjian Longjing

One of the most famous of Chinese green teas, and indeed of Chinese teas altogether, Longjing is a pinnacle of the refinement that has been going on for centuries in tea, and this Longjing is itself a further refinement of the varietal (often translated as Dragonwell), boasting a balanced, sweet flavour in addition to its characteristic vegetal and chestnut notes.

The earlier harvest has had its milder flavours complemented by a light roasting, bringing forth the delicious sweetness present in the small, young leaves, along with a heady floral note rarely found in Longjing. And with such an exquisite flavour, the crown-like form of the stacked leaves may let one feel the royal pleasure of this queen of green teas.

Harvest season: Spring
Taste: Sweet, floral, bright
Origin: Guangxi, China
Cultivar:  Wu Niu Zao
Preparation: Read in this blogpost how to brew Chinese green tea