Hongyu translates as Red Jade although it is also known as Ruby #18 or Ruby Red. This famous Taiwan black tea (which they call hong cha or red tea) is traditionally made in the area around Sun Moon Lake in Central Taiwan. Sun Moon Lake tea was originally planted by the Japanese when they occupied Taiwan in the 20's. They imported Assam plants from India so they could make a black tea that could compete with English tea on the market. This Red Jade has been made using #18, a newer varietal that's a cross between Wild Mountain Tea from Taiwan and a large leaf Burmese Assam varietal that is similar to the ones the Japanese imported from India. This top-notch Red Jade was made by Mr. Lin, one of our favorite tea producers! Not only is he a master tea producer but, more importantly, he practices organic farming with a comprehensive environmental-conscious approach and dedication. It's a beautiful, big-leaf tea with some small silver tips. It has a very sweet taste and a unique, highly characteristic aroma, reminiscent of wintergreen and spices. You will be reminded of a green forest after the rain with lingering sweetness and freshness.
Origin: Yuchi, Sun Moon Lake, Nantou, Taiwan
Harvest: June, 2023
Color of liquor: orange
Aroma: wintergreen, balsam fir, candy canes, pink pepper, bergamot, spicy
Flavor: wintergreen, robust, velvety
Temperature: 100º c
Steeping Time: 1min; 1,5min; 2min
