Black Tea | Song Hong Small-Leaf Black Tea (Golden Prize 2023)

Unlike the typical Assam black teas made from large-leaf varieties, our High-Mountain Small-Leaf Black Tea is made from the Chin-Shin oolong cultivar, traditionally grown in Taiwan’s high-altitude regions. This is what sets this tea apart from others on the majority of the market— it’s a sophisticated brew that carries the legacy of high-mountain oolong teas.

One of the most enchanting aspects of this tea is its unique citrus-like aroma, which is not merely a coincidence. During its growth, the tea plants are naturally visited by the small green leafhopper, an insect that plays a crucial role in developing the tea’s flavor profile. When these leafhoppers nibble on the tea leaves, the plants activate a natural defense mechanism, producing compounds like dimethyl, octadiene, and diol. These compounds contribute to the tea’s distinctive fruity and floral aromas, which can range from citrus and apple to lychee.

The Chin-Shin oolong variety’s small leaves contribute to a balanced structure of sponge-like and palisade tissues, produce a tea with a unique texture. Unlike large-leaf teas, which can be bold and robust, using Chin-Shin oolong cultivar in black tea is gentle on the palate, offering a silky and nuanced flavor that is both sweet and aromatic, ensuring that each cup offers a moment of tranquility and indulgence.