Keemun Orchid

So named after the old Western spelling of Qimen county in Anhui Province, China where this tea is grown. Produced from the same plant varietal for Huagshan Mao Feng green tea, this Keemun tea exhibits an orchid-like aroma. The liquor is deep red with a signature lightly smoked yet sweet and nutty character.

Until the late 19th Century, the Anhui Province of Eastern China only produced green tea. However, this changed when a man who worked in the army in Fujian Province had witnessed how rich black tea farmers had become in this region.

When he returned to Qimen in Anhui, he began working on replicating the black tea production process. This culminated in the creation of Keemun black tea which was much more resilient to long-distance travel to Europe than green tea. It became the most popular tea in the UK and at one time, was the main component of 'English Breakfast' blends but was later replaced by less expensive components.

Ingredients: Keemun Orchid Chinese Black Tea

Preparation: Steep 1tsp per cup for 3-5 minutes in 88-100°C water.