Jin Jun Mei

About this tea

Jin Jun Mei, meaning 'Golden Beautiful Eyebrow,' represents the pinnacle of Chinese black tea craftsmanship. Created in 2005 in the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian Province, this ultra-premium tea revolutionized Chinese tea culture, commanding prices exceeding $1,000 per kilogram. Its creation story involves tea master Liang Jun De and represents innovation within ancient tradition.

What makes Jin Jun Mei extraordinary is its production requirements: only the tiniest leaf buds are plucked, requiring 50,000-60,000 buds to make just 500g of tea. Harvest occurs during a brief window in early spring when buds are perfectly formed but haven't opened. The buds must be plucked by experienced workers who can identify the ideal specimens. Processing requires master-level skill to achieve the perfect oxidation that preserves the buds' golden color.

The flavor profile is remarkably complex and refined: initial sweetness reminiscent of honey and chocolate gives way to subtle fruit notes - lychee, longan, and apricot. There's no astringency, just layer upon layer of evolving flavors. The tea produces a silky mouthfeel with a cooling sensation and lingering sweet aftertaste that Chinese tea lovers call 'hui gan.' The liquor is bright golden-amber with an almost oily texture indicating high quality.

Brewing recommendations: Use 3g per 250ml cup with water at 90°C (195°F) and steep for 2 minutes. This tea can yield 10-12 infusions when brewed gongfu style, each revealing different flavor notes. For Western brewing, use 1 teaspoon per cup.

Best savored alone as a meditative experience, without food pairings that might mask its subtleties. The Chinese consider it a 'CEO tea' - served to honor important guests or for special occasions. Due to its value and limited production, authentic Jin Jun Mei is rare. Many counterfeits exist, so purchase only from reputable sources. This is not everyday tea but rather a luxury experience akin to fine wine.