In the tranquil dawn at Huo Mountain, a young disciple asked his mentor:
– Sifu, why is Huang Xiao Cha revered above other teas?
Sifu Lao Cha replied with a smile:
– This tea whispers sweetness like a breeze through spring blossoms. Its taste is enticing, like a well-told tale, and it rounds off each sip with the elegance of a full moon. It's like a melody crafted by the mountain – refined and smooth.
Huang Xiao Cha (黃小茶) is an exquisite and rare Yellow Tea. Nestled in the serene slopes of Huo Shan, a mountain known for its pristine natural beauty, the tea garden provides a perfect environment for growing high-quality tea leaves.
Yellow teas, such as Huang Xiao Cha, offer a distinct tea experience that sets them apart from the more common Green Teas. The production of Huang Xiao Cha involves a traditional technique known as Men Huang (闷黄), a process pivotal in shaping its unique character. After the initial steps of tea processing, such as withering and light heating to slow down oxidation, the leaves undergo the Men Huang process. This process, which involves wrapping the leaves in cloth to gently and slowly oxidize in a controlled environment, results in a tea with a softer, rounder taste, distinguishing it from the sharper tones of green teas.
Men Huang (闷黄)
One of the most notable outcomes of the Men Huang technique is the distinctive nutty sweetness. Huang Xiao Cha will greet you with subtle notes of quince and dried apricots. The signature sweet nuttiness of yellow teas complements the flavor. The mouthfeel of this tea is particularly pleasing, characterized by a creamy, tingly sensation that makes each sip a refreshing experience.
This tea is perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of a finely crafted brew. Whether enjoyed in a quiet moment alone or shared in the company of friends, Huang Xiao Cha is sure to delight anyone looking to explore the nuanced world of yellow teas.
Watch a short video about Yellow Tea
- Place of Origin: Foziling Town, Huo Shan, Anhui Province, China
- Altitude: 400m
- Harvest Date: April 2024
- Picking Standard: One bud with two leaves
- Aroma: Roasted chestnuts, raw sunflower seeds
- Taste: Sweet and nutty. Notes of quince and wildflower honey.
- Cultivar: Quinti Zhong (当地群体种)
Brewing guidelines:
185℉ / 85℃ 
1g per 60ml 
3-4min
1g per 25ml 5sec + 5sec for each subsequent infusion