Wu Xiang Da Hong Pao

Da Hong Pao (大红袍, “Great Red Robe”) is the most renowned of the Si Da Ming Cong — the Four Great Famous Cultivars of Wuyi. This Wu Xiang (五香, “Five Fragrances”) release is presented in a five-sachet gift box, blended by Wuyi Star tea master Chen Xiangdi (陈橡棣).

The producer’s quality programme is unusual in its detail: 33 stages of field management, 32 pre-factory inspections, 99 quality standards, 21 tea-making steps, and 13 sensory evaluations before release.

Brewing. Gaiwan, 100°C. One 9g sachet per session. Short rinses, then steeps from 10 seconds extending as the leaves open.

Format. Red gift box, five 9g sachets — well suited as a present or a tasting flight.