2024 Spring Big Golden Needle Black Tea

Harvested early Spring 2024, this is a rare black tea yielded from material sourced from old trees in the Lincang region of Yunnan. The bud picking style has small, soft furs, and is oxidized on the lighter side - revealing complex flavors. The tea starts with a gentle sweetness, hints of light malt, and finishes with light graham cracker, dark chocolate and honey. This tea has moderate to high caffeine. Ladders are used to take the early pickings from very high off the old trees, after which, the tea master takes charge, who has been producing this tea for over 50 years.

This years golden needle is big - and big on flavor too. Very forward with sweet honey and graham cracker!

Characteristic Tasting Notes:

Graham Cracker, Honey, Malt, Faint Vanilla & Cocoa

Brewing Instructions:

Water Temp: 200-212F

Amount: 5-7g tea, 140-200ml vessel

Steeping Time: 

1st Infusion: 5-6 seconds.

2nd Infusion: 5-6 seconds.

3rd Infusion: 6-8 seconds.

4th Infusion: 8-10 seconds.

5th Infusion: 15 seconds (add 5 additional seconds for any subsequent infusions after the 5th).

Western Brewing Method:

Use 5g of tea for every 0.5 liters (~2 cups) of water. Fill teapot or brewing device with water that's between 200-212F and steep for 2-3 minutes. This is overall a fantastic tea for any "lazy" brewing method.

Cold Brew Method:

Use 6g of tea for every 0.5 liters of water (~2 cups). Refrigerate for a minimum of 18 hours, with maximum strength at 24 hours.