2022 Fo Xiang Dian Hong - Yunnan Black Tea

This 2022 Fo Xiang Dian Hong was crafted using the traditional Dian Hong processing method, which includes withering, rolling, oxidation, and baking dry. The tea was picked with a one bud, two leaves standard, resulting in golden-tipped buds that contrast beautifully against the dark dry leaves.

While Fengqing County is often credited as the birthplace of Dian Hong (Yunnan black tea) in 1939, Menghai County quickly followed in 1940, becoming an essential region for both Pu’er and black tea production. Today, Menghai remains one of Yunnan’s major centers for high-quality Dian Hong, producing teas with rich, full-bodied flavors and excellent aging potential.

This tea is made from the Fo Xiang cultivar, which was developed by the Yunnan Province Academy of Agricultural Sciences Institute of Tea, an authoritative research institute founded in 1938. It comes from a tea garden maintained by the institute, ensuring high standards in cultivation and processing. The name Fo Xiang (佛香, "Buddha Fragrance") does not literally refer to the scent of Buddha, but instead derives from Menghai’s historical name, Fo Hai.

A crossbreed between Yunnan’s large-leaf cultivar and Fujian’s small-leaf cultivar, Fo Xiang combines the depth and strength of Yunnan black teas with the smooth, sweet characteristics of Fujian’s black teas. It has been recognized as an excellent cultivar at the provincial level, prized for its complex aroma and refined taste.

This Fo Xiang Dian Hong brews into a deep amber liquor with a honeyed, malty aroma. Its taste is smooth and rich, with notes of caramel, dried fruit, and floral undertones, making it an exceptional representation of Menghai's growing reputation in Dian Hong production.