Little Melon Seed (Lu An Gua Pian)

A “famous tea”, recognized as exceptional in quality by emperors in centuries past, Little Melon Seed or Lu An Guapian is a wonderful yellow tea. Showing deep green almost blue colors, the leaves evidence the richness of the varietal and the farm’s nurturing soils. Grown at a high elevation in the Huang Shan Mountains of Anhui Province, this tea has long been enjoyed for its unique flavor and sweet, herbaceous notes. Due to the fact a yellow tea receives an extra “steam” in processing, it cups to a clear, light-yellow with hint of green cup color. As the leaves fully open, their shape reminds tea drinkers of a melon seed with a finely serrated edge. Taste is full, offers a bit of a green tea “bite” as the varietal is strong in flavor; yet it is undeniably sweet and “round” in the mouth, with a finish that makes for an exquisite cup of tea. A “famous tea” it is well worth the taste experience.