Pinhead Gunpowder

Caffeine Content: Low Caffeine

Ingredients: Green tea

Flavor Profile: Smoky - Savory - Subtle Sweetness

Brewing Instructions: 

Amount: 1-2 teaspoons per 8oz

Water Temperature: 165-175°

Steep Time: 3-5 minutes

Pinhead Gunpowder Green Tea is a traditional Chinese green tea known for its distinctive appearance, tightly rolled leaves, and bold, smoky flavor profile. This tea is named "gunpowder" because of the round, tightly rolled appearance of the leaves, which resemble gunpowder pellets. The tea’s rolling process is a key factor in developing its unique characteristics, giving it a strong, slightly smoky aroma and a robust, refreshing taste. It’s a favorite among those who enjoy a bolder green tea with a more robust character than typical, delicate green teas.

Key Characteristics:

Rolling Process:

• Traditional Hand-Rolling: The leaves of Pinhead Gunpowder are hand-rolled into tight, small pellets. This process helps preserve the tea’s flavor and essential oils, and it also reduces oxidation, keeping the leaves fresh. The tightly rolled pellets help protect the delicate green tea from damage during storage and shipping, allowing the tea to maintain its freshness for longer periods.
• Firing (Drying): After the leaves are rolled, they are quickly pan-fired or dry-roasted. This step helps halt oxidation and lock in the natural flavors, contributing to the tea’s signature slightly smoky or toasty notes. The firing also imparts a distinct richness that is one of the defining characteristics of Gunpowder tea.

Flavor Profile:

• Smoky & Robust: Pinhead Gunpowder has a bold, smoky flavor with hints of roasted vegetables and a subtle, savory depth. The smokiness comes from the roasting process, which infuses the leaves with a toasty flavor that is both grounding and satisfying.
• Grassy & Vegetal Notes: While smoky, the tea also carries a fresh, green taste with grassy and vegetal notes. These flavors balance the richness of the roasting, creating a tea that feels both hearty and refreshing.
• Mild Astringency: The tea has a mild astringency that adds a slight dryness to the mouthfeel, but it’s not overwhelming. This helps to cleanse the palate and allows the bold flavors to shine without being overly bitter.
• Sweet Finish: The tea finishes with a light, almost sweet aftertaste, lingering pleasantly in the mouth.

Brewing Tips:

• Water Temperature: To brew Pinhead Gunpowder tea, use water that is just under boiling—around 165-175°F (73-79°C). Using water that is too hot can result in bitterness, while water that’s too cool may not fully extract the robust flavors.
• Steeping Time: Brew for 3-5 minutes. This time allows the leaves to unfurl properly while extracting a balanced flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter taste, steep for 1-2 minutes.  If you prefer a stronger taste, you can steep for a bit longer, but avoid over-steeping as it can bring out more bitterness.
• Multiple Infusions: Pinhead Gunpowder can be re-steeped multiple times. Each subsequent infusion will bring out a slightly different character, often softening the smokiness while emphasizing the vegetal and grassy qualities. Increase the steeping time by 30 seconds with each new infusion.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Like all green teas, Pinhead Gunpowder is loaded with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which can help protect against free radical damage and promote overall health. These antioxidants are linked to benefits such as improved heart health, enhanced brain function, and anti-aging properties.
• Boosts Metabolism: Green tea is known to support metabolism and fat burning. The caffeine and catechins in Pinhead Gunpowder may help increase fat oxidation and promote weight management when consumed regularly.
• Improved Digestion: The natural compounds in green tea, including polyphenols, are thought to aid digestion and may help soothe the stomach, making it an excellent choice after meals.

Serving Suggestions:

• Plain or with a Touch of Sweetener: Pinhead Gunpowder is best enjoyed plain to fully appreciate its smoky, robust flavor. However, some may prefer a small amount of honey or a slice of lemon for added sweetness or brightness.
• Iced or Hot: Traditionally enjoyed hot, Pinhead Gunpowder also makes an excellent iced tea. When brewed and chilled, the tea’s smoky and vegetal notes are more subdued, offering a refreshing drink during warmer months.

Why Pinhead Gunpowder?

Pinhead Gunpowder is perfect for tea drinkers who enjoy a bold, smoky flavor with the refreshing qualities of green tea. Its tight, pellet-like leaves unfurl beautifully during brewing, releasing layers of complex flavors. The tea is ideal for those who like their green tea with a bit of character—smoky, savory, and satisfying. Whether you're new to Chinese teas or a seasoned enthusiast, Pinhead Gunpowder offers a distinctive and reliable experience. It's an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more robust, hearty tea that provides a warming, energizing effect, making it suitable for both morning and afternoon enjoyment.