Fo Cha
I tried brewing this Tea in several different levels of strength, and whether it is brewed lightly , or of medium degree or very strong, I enjoyed each example immensely !
In the sixth and seventh centuries, tea drinking became increasingly popular with Buddhist monks as they recognized the green leaf as a means of clearing the mind and providing stimulation to allow for longer sessions of meditation. The monks realized they gained mental sharpness while also noting the enjoyable aspects of drinking this special tea. Cultivation followed and, in time, the monks crafted a cultivar rich in flavors and aroma. Our Buddhist Tea is a classic vegetal-tasting green made of early-spring leaves grown on one of the Zhoushan Islands near Hangzhou. This lot was harvested in mid-April 2021.
Lot Notes. The leaves are a pleasing light green coloration mixed with ample white buds. The lot is carefully crafted to form tight, consistently sized curls. Centuries of cultivation have developed a leaf with a grassy-sweet aroma and fresh, vegetal flavors. The tea is smooth with only hint of astringency. For those that enjoy a well-rounded, rich tasting green tea, this is a great choice.
Tea Facts. Tea farm is located on China Sea side of the island. Bathed in sunlight and ocean breeze, it is an ideal location for cultivating a rich green tea flavor. This lot is basket roasted giving the tea an extra sweetness. The basket firing demands attentiveness and quick movements as the leaves can easily be baked or over-fired. This cultivar is noted to be high in amino acids, alkaloids and polyphenols which contribute to the wonderful aroma, fresh flavors and healthy aspects of this tea. These compounds create a tea that is vegetable sweet and clean.
Tasting Notes. Offers a distinctive vegetal, grassy flavor, with a light note of early spring asparagus; soft and sweet on the palate with a lingering finish. The taste is mellow and smooth. The cup color is a rich yellow-green the result of the flavanols in the leaves.
Brewing Suggestions. Use 3 grams of leaf (about a teaspoon) for 6-8 ounces of water at a temperature of 185-195 degrees F. We recommend an initial steeping of 2 to 2.5 minutes to enjoy the subtle qualities of the leaf. For greater body & 2nd infusion, steep for 3 minutes. This tea is slow to turn astringent. The leaves will yield 3 steeps.
