Black Tea Bitter Shai Hong from Ailao 'Black label', Pin Wu Cha. Shai Hongs (or “sun-dried”, 晒红) are Yunnan Hong Cha teas which are sun-dried during the final stages of production. Raw material for this tea is collected from 100 to 150-year-old trees that grow at an approximate height of 2400m. The tea has a straight-forward aroma that includes menthol and gooseberry notes with hints of red apple, the heated brewing vessel unveils a tartness and a spicy sweetness. The liquor is a luscious amber colour, the taste is rich with hints of spice and chill in the base and an astringency that seems to creep up on you. The aftertaste is long lasting and slightly viscous.

A tea that requires a certain amount of tea experience and a certain mood. Chances are you will remember its flavour for a long time. Not a typical tea, but if you end up enjoying it you will certainly look forward to your next tea session with this Shai Hong.

Recommended brewing temperature: 90°C. Best prepared in thick-walled brewing vessels. Keep steeping time short and avoid drinking this tea on an empty stomach.