2022 Lu'an Guapian 六安瓜片 - Melon Seed

Lu'an Guapian is one of the ten most famous teas in China, and its fame is widespread all over the world, making it one of the most appreciated green teas. The name derives from the peculiar shape of the leaves, that resemble small melon seeds - 瓜片 guapian in Chinese.

It is composed of only the second apical leaves: even though this harvest may seem of lower quality, it is actually as precious as an Imperial harvest. In fact, pickers select the leaves with the utmost care, choosing only the older and bigger leaves, which give a strong body, and a great complexity. The absence of buds also means that the liquor doesn't have a strong grassy taste, which is considered unpleasant by the Chinese. The aroma of this harvest is mouth-filling and unmatched among most green teas. The first brews release a sweet scent of roasted chestnuts, warm and long-lasting. The liquor shines of a pure emerald light, that gets stronger and more intense with each new brew.

Zhou Enlai, who was China's head of Government from 1949 to 1976, was particularly fond of this tea. According to the legend, a fresh cup of Lu'an Guapian was his last dying wish. 

Origin: Manu town, Jinzhai, Lu'an prefecture, Anhui province
Flush: April 2nd 2022, Pre-Qingming
Format: 25 gr. Signature Pack
Storage: the leaves can be stored in their original package or in ceramic vases. Avoid heat, light, and moisture.

Infusion Parameters

Eastern Brewing

Quantity: 1 gr. of tea every 30 ml of water
Brewing time: Begin with a 30-second brew. Increase with each successive brew as needed. 
Water temperature: 75° C
Number of brews: 4-5

Western Brewing

Quantity: 1 gr. of tea every 100 ml of water
Brewing time: 2:30 minutes
Water temperature: 75° C

Cold Brew

Quantity: 1 gr. of tea every 100 ml of water
Brewing: put the tea leaves in room temperature water and steep for 6-7 hours. Filter the liquor and drink within 24 hours.