2024 Song Luo Cha - Anhui Green Tea

Song Luo Cha (松萝茶) is a prized green tea from Song Luo Mountain in Xiuning County, Huangshan, Anhui Province, China. Celebrated as China's first pan-fried green tea, Song Luo Cha has a rich history of over 400 years, dating back to the early Ming dynasty. It was pioneered by a Buddhist monk named Da Fang, who developed the pan-frying technique that set the standard for green tea processing.

This specific batch is sourced from the origin of the Ming Zhou Zhong cultivar, Mingzhou Village, located at an elevation of 585 meters. Harvested before the Qingming festival on April 3rd, it follows the picking standard of one bud and one leaf, occasionally including a second tender leaf. This premium, pre-Qingming tea is far superior to the typical Song Luo Cha exported abroad, offering a rare, custom quality that is seldom found even within the Chinese market.

The tea's uniquely tightly curled leaves, which resemble small twisted flowers, help minimize oxidation and preserve its delicate flavors and aromas. When brewed, Song Luo Cha produces a crystal-clear, bright green infusion with an aroma that is distinctly fresh and features a subtle hint of olives. The flavor is robust and full-bodied, enhanced by a lingering sweetness that reflects the fertile, mountainous terrain of its origin.

Song Luo Cha not only provides a wonderful taste experience but also a connection to the deep cultural heritage of Chinese tea. This tea is a testament to the skill and traditions of the artisans who have kept its legacy alive through centuries, making it a special addition to our club's selection this year.

Storage & Freshness Notice:

For the best experience, Chinese green tea is traditionally enjoyed within the first year after harvest to highlight its freshness and vibrant character. While this tea was harvested in April 2024, it has been carefully stored to retain its quality. If kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or refrigerated, it can still be enjoyed well beyond a year.

To encourage fresh consumption, we are offering 20% off this batch—making it a great opportunity to enjoy a high-quality green tea at a lower price before the next harvest arrives.