2016 Autumn Aged Shou Mei White Tea Biscuit

This 2016 Autumn Harvest Shou Mei was picked in mid-September, during the second most common harvest season for Fuding white tea. While spring-harvested white teas are often more sought after, autumn-harvested teas develop a distinctive aroma and flavor profile with a richer body, and they are typically more accessible in price.

The tea originates from Panxi Town, one of Fuding’s finest micro-regions, known for producing high-quality white tea. After harvest, the leaves were naturally withered and stored in loose-leaf form under relatively dry conditions, allowing for gradual aging before being compressed into biscuit-shaped pieces (~5g each). This compact format offers convenience in brewing while maintaining the integrity of the tea’s aging potential.

Shou Mei (寿眉, "Longevity Eyebrow") gets its name from the crescent shape of its leaves, resembling an old man’s eyebrow. It consists of naturally withered tips, leaves, and stems, ranking below Bai Hao Yin Zhen (Silver Needle) and Bai Mu Dan (White Peony) in picking standards. However, its larger, coarser leaves give it greater depth, aging potential, and a robust, sweet flavor that intensifies over time.

With its smooth, mellow texture and notes of honey, dried fruit, and herbs, this autumn-harvested Shou Mei offers a warming and comforting brew. It can be steeped lightly for delicate sweetness or simmered for a richer, thicker infusion, making it a versatile choice for both casual and experienced tea drinkers.