Keemun tea

Keemun tea is a type of Chinese black tea originating from the Anhui province of China. Known for its unique aroma and taste, it is one of the most famous black teas in the world.

History

Keemun tea was first produced in 1875 during the Qing Dynasty. Prior to this, the Anhui province was known for its green tea production. However, a former civil servant named Yu Ganchen decided to experiment with black tea production and created Keemun tea. The tea quickly gained popularity and became a major export to England, where it was used in the famous English Breakfast Tea blend.

Production

The production of Keemun tea involves a meticulous process that contributes to its unique characteristics. The tea leaves are harvested from the Camellia sinensis plant, specifically the variety known as Camellia sinensis sinensis, which is native to China. The leaves are then withered, rolled, fermented, and dried. The fermentation process is particularly important in developing Keemun tea's distinctive aroma, which is often described as having a hint of floral and fruity notes.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Keemun tea, each with its own unique characteristics. These include:

• Keemun Hao Ya: A high-grade variety known for its fine, thin leaves and rich flavor.
• Keemun Mao Feng: A variety that includes the leaf bud in the tea, resulting in a lighter flavor.
• Keemun Congou: Also known as "gongfu" or "kung fu" tea, this variety is made using traditional Chinese tea-making techniques.

Taste and aroma

Keemun tea is known for its unique aroma, often described as floral and fruity with a hint of pine, orchid, and tobacco. The taste is equally distinctive, with a winey and fruity flavor, and a lingering, mellow aftertaste.

Health benefits

Like other black teas, Keemun tea is rich in polyphenols, which are known for their antioxidant properties. Regular consumption of Keemun tea may therefore offer a range of health benefits, including improved heart health, reduced risk of stroke, and lower cholesterol levels.

See also

• List of Chinese teas
• History of tea in China
• Tea culture