Honey Jin Jun Mei
These beautifully golden leaves produce a classically malty black tea, but knowing Jin Jun Mei, one can expect anything but the mundane: this one has been characterized by the producer as a honey flavor, and, true to character, the brew leaves a long-lasting sweetness on the tongue. It is the aromatics, though, that make it something else, with the tantalizing bitterness of cacao enlivened by an aroma of paprika, and even a hint of piquancy in the finish to complete the picture. Continuing for infusion after infusion, it is bound to satisfy the black tea lover looking for a next-level experience.
For those who have not yet encountered the varietal, this one may indeed be the start of a long-term affair with Jin Jun Mei, and we will only be too happy to call ourselves the matchmaker.
Watch the video on the Nannuoshan YouTube Channel to learn more about the history and the different versions of this controversial black tea.
- ORIGIN: Fenshuiguan, Da'an cun, Yangzhuangxiang, Wuyishan, Nanping, Fujian, China
- MEANING: Golden steed eyebrow (jin jun mei)
- CULTIVAR: Fu Yun Nr. 6
- HARVEST TIME: 28 March 2025
- TASTE: Honey, cacao, paprika
- Quantity: 6g / 500ml
- Water temperature: 90°C
- Infusion time: 5 min
- Quantity: 3g / 100ml
- Water temperature: 90°C
- 6 infusions: 45, 45, 60, 90, 120 sec
For best results in gongfu cha, brew in the traditional gaiwan or in a Yixing teapot.
Additional Information
A newcomer varietal with characteristic golden buds, Jin Jun Mei was developed in 2005 in Tongmuguan, forbidden to outsiders and nestled in the same almost-inaccessible, mountainous corner of Wuyishan that also produced Lapsang Souchong. Considered one of the pinnacles of Chinese black teas, it has been the subject of much hype since its creation, and other than beginning oxidation by shaking, a technique usually reserved for oolong production, the special steps in its processing have been kept a closely-guarded secret.