Da Hong Pao

Caffeine Content: Moderate Caffeine

Ingredients: Dark smoky oolong

Flavor Profile: Roasted - Smooth - Aromatic

Brewing Instructions: 

Amount: 1-2 teaspoons per 8oz

Water Temperature: 185°

Steep Time: 3-4 minutes

Da Hong Pao is one of China’s most legendary and highly prized oolong teas, originating from the misty cliffs of the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province. Its name, meaning "Big Red Robe," comes from an ancient tale in which a scholar was cured of illness by this tea, prompting the emperor to drape his royal red robe over the tea bushes in gratitude. This tea is known for its bold, roasted character, mineral-rich taste, and complex layers of flavor, making it a favorite among tea connoisseurs worldwide.

Key Characteristics:

Traditional Wuyi Rock Tea (Yancha) Influence:

• Origin: Grown in the mineral-rich soils of the Wuyi Mountains, Da Hong Pao is a famous Yancha (rock tea), known for its unique terroir.
• Roasting Process: This tea undergoes a meticulous roasting process over charcoal, contributing to its deep, toasty complexity.
• Long, Twisted Leaves: Unlike rolled oolongs, Da Hong Pao features long, twisted leaves with dark, reddish-brown hues, a hallmark of its artisanal processing.

Flavor Profile:

• Rich & Roasted: A deep, warming aroma with notes of charred wood, dark chocolate, and toasted nuts.
• Mineral & Earthy: A signature rock essence ("yan yun") gives this tea a smooth yet structured minerality, evoking the stony cliffs of Wuyi.
• Sweet & Floral Undertones: Hints of orchid, caramel, and dried fruit emerge in the finish, balancing the tea’s rich, roasted notes.
• Lingering Aftertaste: A velvety texture with a sweet, long-lasting finish that deepens with multiple infusions.

Brewing Tips:

• Water Temperature: 185°F (85°C) – This allows the tea to fully express its complex flavors without burning the delicate leaves.
• Steeping Time: 3-4 minutes – A longer steep brings out the tea’s bold, roasted notes, while a shorter steep highlights its floral sweetness.
• Multiple Infusions: Da Hong Pao is known for its ability to be steeped multiple times, revealing new layers of flavor with each infusion.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Helps combat oxidative stress and supports overall wellness.
• Boosts Mental Clarity: The balanced caffeine content provides gentle energy without the jitters of coffee.
• Aids Digestion: Traditionally enjoyed after meals to promote gut health and aid metabolism.
• Supports Cardiovascular Health: The minerals found in Yancha teas may help support heart health and circulation.

Serving Suggestions:

• Traditional Gong Fu Style: Brewed in small concentrated amounts for a refined, evolving experience.
• Classic & Pure: Best enjoyed without additives to fully appreciate its natural complexity.
• Cold Brew: For a smoother, sweeter profile with a refreshing mineral finish.

Why Da Hong Pao?

Da Hong Pao is more than just a tea—it is a historical treasure and a sensory masterpiece. Its legendary origins, complex depth of flavor, and lingering aftertaste make it a must-try for tea lovers seeking a luxurious, time-honored experience. Whether enjoyed in a ceremonial setting or as a daily indulgence, this Big Red Robe remains one of the most exquisite teas in the world.