Jiuqu Hongmei is a type of black tea (red tea as it's known in China) that originates from Hangzhou, China. It's often overshadowed by its much more prestigious and famed counterpart, Xihu Longjing Green Tea, but Jiuqu Hongmei is still well-known mostly across mainland China. This tea is known for its red plum flavour, with its name being derived from it as Hongmei (红梅) directly translates to "red plum".
This Jiuqu Hongmei we have is made under the supervision of Mr Lou, who is the fourth generation cultural inheritor of Jiuqu Hongmei tea. In China, this tea is classified as 特二级, which means "No. 2 special grade", which is why it is more expensive compared to other Jiuqu Hongmei teas in the market today. However, we feel that it is worth the price, owing to its unique milky quality that pairs with the red plum fruity and woody notes of the tea. A juicy texture and a strong permeating aftertaste, coupled with an impressive steep longevity, makes this tea a no-brainer to have in our store. Honestly, we recommend you to ignore the "special grade" classification and just try the tea out yourself. The tea itself can do the talking!
Tea Information
- Harvest Date: 7th-9th April 2023
- Origin: Near Shuangling Village, Dawu Basin, Lingshan Scenic Area, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China (中国，浙江省，杭州市，西湖区，灵山风景区，大坞盆地，靠近双灵村)
- Varietal: Qunti Zhong (群体种)
- Elevation: 238m
- Source: Directly from Tea Master Mr Lou 楼师傅
- Organic?: Yes, organic methods used, uncertified. Laboratory tested.
Map
Brewing Guide
Gongfu Brewing
- Leaf-to-water ratio: 5g/100ml
- Temperature: 90°C/194°F
- Steeping time: 15s, +5-10s for each subsequent steep
Western Brewing
- Leaf-to-water ratio: 5g/400ml
- Temperature: 90°C/194°F
- Steeping time: 2m30s, +1m for each subsequent steep
Grandpa Style
- Leaf-to-water ratio: 5g/300ml
- Temperature: 90°C/194°F
- Steeping time: 2m30s, top up to taste
Don't know anything about these brewing styles? Fret not! Read our "How to Brew Chinese Tea" article here!
* Ultimately, experiment with the different parameters to find what works for you. If you think it's too bitter, reduce the temperature. If it's too strong, reduce the number of leaves used. This is just a guide with rough parameters to get you started.
Media
Mr Lou's tea farm
Mr Lou (Mr Lou has agreed to have his face shown)
