Considered one of China’s "10 Famous Teas", Lu An Guapian is a bold, smooth and thick green tea with minimal vegetal notes. The aroma of the dry leaf is reminiscent of a bucolic spring forest. The brewed leaf produces an aroma of toasted sesame seeds and flavor notes of sweet grain and roasted nuts, with a hint of citrus. Our Lu An Gua Pian was harvested in early April and fully handmade by the Hu family.
Lu An Gua Pian is distinctive among green teas not only for its taste but for its traditional craftsmanship. Unlike most green teas in China where both buds and leaves are picked, Lu An Gua Pian uses only single leaves. The signature rolled shape, resembling a sunflower seed, is created during wok frying where the leaves are tossed upward with special brooms made of local weeds.
The final step in making Lu An Gua Pian is an intense flash roast, known as “la lao huo”, which contributes to the tea’s distinctive aroma and taste. First, an open charcoal fire is created. The dried leaves are placed in a bamboo drum with a handle on each side. Two tea makers stand on each side and move the drum over the fire for a few seconds, then remove it and stir the leaves. They will repeat this process up to 80 times to fully roast the tea.
Origin: China, Anhui Province, Lu An
Harvest Season: April 5, 2024
Brewing Guide
Use 3 g (1 heaping tbsp.) per 6 oz (175ml) of water. Heat water to 185º F. Let steep 2-3 minutes. Green teas can usually yield 3-4 infusions. Adjust amount of leaf, brewing time and water temperature according to your personal preference.
