Product Information
-
Name: Jiu Qu Hong Mei (Jiuqu Red Plum)
-
Grade: Exceptional A+++++
-
Material: Long Jing #43 (Early spring tiny buds and young leaves)
-
Type: Hong Cha (Black Tea)
-
Origin: Zhejiang Province, China
Grading Note: Our supplier determines this tea as their highest grade (6A). However, because our internal grading system reserves the ultimate top tier exclusively for exceptional teas originating strictly from core regions, we classify this tea as A+++++.
Description Jiu Qu Hong Mei, or "Red Plum," is a premium black tea named for its vibrant color and plum-blossom elegance. Crafted from the most tender, earliest early spring buds of the renowned "Long Jing #43" cultivar, this A+++++ grade harvest embodies the highly refined terroir and refreshing spirit of Zhejiang with exceptional clarity and depth.
Sensory Profile
-
Appearance & Aroma
-
Dry Leaf: Tightly rolled, delicate threads resembling fine needles; emitting highly distinct notes of rich malt and deep honeyed sweetness.
-
Liquor Aroma: Upon infusion, the tea releases an intense, layered fragrance of wild orchid intertwined with the scent of ripened stone fruits, such as apricot and peach. The aroma is exceptionally steady, deep, and sophisticated.
-
Flavor & Mouthfeel
-
Entry: The liquor is crystal-clear with a luminous, golden-red hue and a distinct golden ring at the rim. The mouthfeel is thick, velvety, and silky, characterized by a pristine rock-sugar sweetness.
-
Mid-palate: Subtle undertones of malty grain provide substantial body, seamlessly complemented by a rounded, mature woodiness.
-
Finish: A swift and lingering Hui Gan (returning sweetness) stimulates salivation, leaving a pleasant, caramelized aftertaste that coats the throat long after the sip.
Storage & Preservation
-
Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from strong odors to preserve the delicate floral notes.
-
Refrigeration: While not mandatory, refrigeration is recommended to maintain the optimal freshness of the early spring buds.
-
Shelf Life: Up to 24 months if stored correctly.
Brewing Guidelines To fully appreciate the nuanced layers of this A+++++ Jiu Qu Hong Mei, please follow these recommendations:
-
Water Temperature: 85–90°C (185–195°F). Avoid boiling water to prevent scalding the delicate buds and causing acidity.
-
Tea-to-Water Ratio: 3–5g of tea per 150–200ml of water.
-
Steeping Time:
-
First Infusion: 10–15 seconds for a light, aromatic start.
-
Subsequent Infusions: Increase steeping time by 10–15 seconds for each following steep. This grade typically maintains its structural flavor for 5–6 infusions.
-
-
Vessel: A porcelain gaiwan or a small teapot is highly recommended to enhance the tea's clarity and capture its floral bouquet.
-
Preparation: Briefly rinse the tea for 5 seconds with hot water and discard to "awaken" the leaves before the first formal steep.
