Xinyang Maojian 2026
For those familiar with our previous offerings, this Xinyang Maojian will be a welcome return: a brisk and clean tea from the alpine regions of Henan. Its slender, slightly twisted needle-shaped leaves display a jade-green color and the buds are covered in a fine layer of downy hairs, perfectly in keeping with the name Maojian, meaning "downy buds". Harvested in mid-April, at the height of the spring season, the leaves unfurl to reveal aromas of roasted soybean and fresh green beans. The resulting liquor is lively and full of character, opening with a creamy texture that complements its nutty depth before developing a pleasant astringency. The finish is refreshing and thirst-quenching, reminiscent of a well-hopped, lightly fruity beer.
Written by Karsten
- ORIGIN: Balipo, Shihe, Xinyang, Henan, China
- MEANING: Xinyang downy buds (xinyang mao jian)
- HARVEST TIME: 15 April 2026
- CULTIVAR: Qun Ti Zhong
- TASTE: Roasted soybean, fresh green beans, fruity hops
- Quantity: 6g / 500ml
- Water temperature: 80°C
- Infusion time: 4 min
- Quantity: 3g / 100ml
- Water temperature: 80°C
- 4 infusions: 40, 30, 40, 60 sec
For best results in gongfu cha, brew in the traditional gaiwan or brew this tea in a tall glass by filling it with water before adding the leaves. Too high water temperature would burn the leaves, resulting in bitter taste.