Black Tea

Black tea from Yunnan stands out as one of the most robust yet elegant black teas in the world! Usually crafted from the Assamica or Assamica hybrid varietals, Yunnan Black teas have gained increasing popularity since the end of World War II. Over the past two decades, a range of intriguing hybrids have been developed, enhancing both the diversity and flavor profile of these teas. The characteristics of black teas are influenced by factors such as the hybrid variety, harvest time, plucking method, and processing techniques.

Camellia Sinensis var. Assamica: the original assamica varietal, not deliberately hybridized.
Yun Kang #10: a drought-resistant hybrid of Sinensis and Assamica, known for its tippiest nature, sweetness, and malty undertones.
Yun Kang #100: similar to #10 but featuring larger and plumper buds.
Chang Ye Bai Hao: distinguished by more pronounced tips and downier leaves on one side.
The Wild tree varietal is a rare Assamica Kuntze varietal that grows wild and has recently been processed into Black tea. Initially sour and thick when young, this tea ages beautifully, acquiring textures reminiscent of red wine and fruit over time.

In Fujian Province, renowned for its exceptional black teas, notable varieties include Golden Monkey (from Fuding), Jin Jun Mei (from Tong Mu Guan), and Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong (also known as Lapsang Souchong), among many others. Fujian Black Teas typically feature small leaf varietals but can also be found in hybrid forms crossed with Assamica or Tie Guan Yin.

Yingde City is famous for its production of black tea. The black tea known as Hero 9 from this city is favored by members of the British royal family.