Anhui Tea: Complete Guide to Anhui Famous Teas
Anhui Province is one of China most historically significant tea-producing regions, known for producing several of China Ten Famous Teas. From the misty peaks of Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) to the ancient tea gardens of Qimen, Anhui teas represent the pinnacle of Chinese tea craftsmanship. The province is particularly renowned for its green teas and the world-famous Keemun black tea.
Anhui Tea Geography
Anhui diverse landscape creates ideal tea conditions:
- Location: Eastern China, between the Yangtze and Huai rivers
- Mountains: Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), Dabie Mountain, and Tianmu Mountain ranges
- Climate: Northern subtropical climate with distinct seasons and abundant rainfall
- Elevation: Tea gardens range from 300-1,800 meters
- Soil: Mountain yellow earth, rich in minerals and organic matter
- Mist: Huangshan famous “sea of clouds” provides ideal moisture and shade for tea plants
Famous Anhui Teas
Huangshan Maofeng
- One of China Ten Famous Teas
- From the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) area
- Harvested in early spring with a standard of one bud and one or two leaves
- Appearance: Slightly curved, downy tips with a yellowish-green color
- Flavor: Fresh, sweet, with notes of orchid and a lingering aftertaste
- The tea liquor is clear and light yellow-green
Taiping Houkui (Monkey King Tea)
- One of China Ten Famous Teas
- From Houkeng village in Huangshan area
- Famous for its exceptionally large, flat leaves (often 5-7cm long)
- Appearance: Two leaves embracing a bud, flat and straight
- Flavor: Delicate, sweet, with a unique “monkey rhyme” (hou yun)
- Won gold medal at the 2004 China Tea Exhibition
Liuan Guapian (Melon Seed Tea)
- One of China Ten Famous Teas
- From Jinzhai and Liuan counties
- Unique because only the second leaf is used (no buds)
- Appearance: Shaped like melon seeds, bright green
- Flavor: Fresh, mellow, with a hint of smokiness
- Historically a tribute tea since the Tang Dynasty
Qimen Hongcha (Keemun Black Tea)
- One of China Ten Famous Teas
- From Qimen County, southern Anhui
- Considered one of the three great black teas of the world (alongside Darjeeling and Ceylon)
- Famous for its “Keemun aroma” - a unique fragrance combining notes of honey, flowers, and sometimes a hint of pine smoke
- Appearance: Tight, thin strips with a dark, glossy color
- Flavor: Smooth, mellow, with a complex aroma that includes honey, orchid, and sometimes apple notes
- Historically exported to Britain for blending in English breakfast tea
Tunxi Green Tea
- From the Tunxi area near Huangshan
- Often used as the base for jasmine tea
- Clean, fresh flavor profile
The Huangshan Tea Region
Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) is the heart of Anhui tea country:
- UNESCO World Heritage: Famous for its granite peaks, pine trees, and sea of clouds
- Tea gardens: Located on mountain slopes between 700-1,400 meters
- Soil: Rocky mountain soil rich in minerals
- Water: Natural mountain springs provide pristine water for tea processing
- Traditional processing: Many tea makers still use traditional wood-fired woks for frying
Keemun: The Pride of Anhui Black Tea
Qimen (Keemun) black tea deserves special attention:
- Origin: Developed in 1875 by a scholar named Yu Ganchen who learned black tea production in Fujian
- Cultivar: Made from the local Zhu Ye Zhong (Bamboo Leaf) variety
- Grades: Keemun has 7+ grades, with Hao Ya being the finest
- Export history: Major export to Britain since the 19th century, used in English breakfast tea blends
- Award: Won gold medal at international expositions in the early 20th century
- Unique aroma: The “Keemun aroma” is so distinctive it has its own name in tea terminology
Tea Tourism in Anhui
- Huangshan: Visit tea gardens, experience tea frying, and enjoy the spectacular scenery
- Qimen: Explore Keemun tea factories and taste different grades
- Tunxi Old Street: Historic tea trading street in Huangshan City
- Tea farms: Many offer hands-on tea picking and processing experiences in spring