Lu’an Gua Pian Superior

Lu'an Gua Pian is one of China's most distinctive green teas. Not only does it hold a place among the country's Ten Famous Teas, but it also possesses a character entirely its own, with a bolder and more expressive profile than many of its celebrated counterparts. Made exclusively from mature leaves, without any buds, it undergoes the unique and demanding roasting technique known as la lao huo. During this process, the leaves are gathered in large baskets, briefly placed over a chestnut charcoal fire, then lifted away and returned repeatedly. The result is a tea with characteristics found nowhere else in the world of green tea.

This particular lot has also earned our Superior designation, a title we reserve only for teas that truly stand out. It is produced from seed-grown plants, traditionally believed to develop deeper root systems over time, drawing from a broader range of soil layers and thought to contribute to greater depth and complexity in the cup.

The results are, unsurprisingly, remarkable. The liquor immediately impresses with its thick, almost oily, mouth-coating texture, matched by the delicious nuttiness of toasted sunflower seeds. This rich, savory foundation—a hallmark of Lu'an Gua Pian's leaf selection and traditional roasting—supports brighter, greener notes reminiscent of flash-blanched chicory: fresh and vibrant, yet free from any harsh bitterness. The finish unfolds with the delicate sweetness of freshly shelled peas, lingering gracefully on the palate long after the final sip.

Written by Simone