2023 Hu Hong Gong Fu - Hunan Black Tea

Hu Hong Gong Fu (湖红工夫) is a type of black tea from Hunan province, with its main production centers spread across various counties, including Anhua, Taoyuan, Shaoyang, and other regions. Our tea club has previously introduced other "Gong Fu" black teas like Yi Hong from Hubei province, located to the north of Hunan, and Tan Yang from Fujian province.

The history of Hu Hong Gong Fu traces back over a century, quickly amassing immense popularity. It once proudly ranked among China's top black teas and was particularly celebrated for its exceptional quality, especially those originating from Anhua County. More than a hundred years ago, it held its place among the top three black teas in China, alongside Keemun and Lapsang Souchong.

In the mid-19th century, both domestic tea dealers and foreign tea traders played a pivotal role in boosting the production of black tea in Hunan due to its consistently high quality. The popularity of Hu Hong Gong Fu grew rapidly, establishing itself as a significant export commodity, particularly to Russia and the UK. By the late 19th century, Hu Hong Gong Fu, notably from Anhua County, had earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest black tea varieties available.

Hu Hong Gong Fu underwent substantial growth and even won a gold medal at the Panama World Exposition in 1915. This recognition elevated Hunan black tea’s status on the global stage and provided a significant boost to its industry.

Hu Hong Gong Fu made a substantial impact on the tea trade, particularly in international markets. Over time, Hu Hong Gong Fu production continued to expand, garnering well-deserved recognition and further solidifying the province's reputation as a major tea-producing region.