Green Monkey King

Perhaps no other tea embodies the artistry of China's teas more than the famous and impressive leafed Tai Ping Hou Kui (TPHK). Ours is a first-grade leaf grown on a spring-fed farm at an elevation of 800 meters in the Huang Shan Mountains. At night, wild cymbidium orchids lightly infuse the leaves with aroma. High grade TPHK is plucked only in the morning hours, then worked by hand (teamaker wearing white gloves) in a wok-like pan reducing moisture and preparing for 4 additional steps to create its unique leaf shape. Our TPHK was plucked in the spring harvest of 2024.

Lot Notes. Lot is a Yu Qian pick, harvested "before the rain". Our TPHK is organically grown, the farm is noncertified but strictly adheres to traditional organic methods of cultivation. A first-grade leaf, the plucking standard is one bud and 2 leaves, with its vaying stem lengths up to 5-centimeters. 

Tea Facts. The pluck is done before the sun shines on the bushes. Our lot is processed using a contemporary version of Nie-Jian processing. TPHK undergoes 3 light firings, a process starting at a temperature of 75-80 degrees F to wither and prepare the leaves for a 1st pressing toward its flat shape. Pliable, the leaves are placed on silk mats and handpressed into their classic shape. 

Tasting Notes. Large, flat, deep green leaves cup to a light orchid aroma, clear liquor, and a delightfully sweet vegetal taste, with a hint of apricot. While delicate, one will note its long finish.

Brewing Instructions. As the leaves are long, it is difficult to measure your leaf quantity. Use 3 grams (approx. 8 leaves) for 8 ounces of water at a temperature of 175-195 F. Steep for two minutes and taste. Leaves have body, plenty of flavor and will steep multiple time.