Green tea · Anhui, China
Mao Feng
Delicate Chinese green tea with downy leaves resembling sparrow tongues, sweet and mellow flavor.
How to brew
| Leaf | Water | Temperature | Time | Infusions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western | 3 g | 250 ml | 80°C / 175°F | 1 min 30 s | 3 |
| Gong Fu | 5 g | 100 ml | 80°C / 175°F | 20 s + | 5 |
About this tea
Mao Feng, meaning 'Fur Peak,' takes its name from the small white hairs covering young tea buds and the peak-like shape of processed leaves. Most famously from Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) in Anhui Province, this tea embodies the Chinese preference for teas that maintain natural leaf appearance while developing refined flavors. The misty mountain environment creates ideal slow-growing conditions.
Harvested in early spring when buds show white down, Mao Feng requires precise timing - too early and yields suffer, too late and quality drops. The processing emphasizes preserving the leaf's natural shape and fuzzy appearance through gentle handling. Unlike teas rolled into specific shapes, Mao Feng's beauty lies in its natural form, with leaves resembling tiny sparrows' tongues covered in white down.
The flavor profile is gentle and refined: delicate sweetness with notes of fresh orchids, smooth, mellow character with no astringency, subtle complexity that builds across infusions, clean, refreshing finish with hint of mountain mist. The white down contributes a silky texture and subtle sweetness. Often described as 'elegant' - never bold or assertive but revealing layers to patient drinkers. The pale yellow-green liquor has exceptional clarity.
Brewing recommendations: Use 1 teaspoon (3g) per 250ml cup with water at 80°C (175°F), steeping for 90 seconds. The delicate nature requires careful temperature control. Use glass or white porcelain to appreciate the beautiful leaves and pale liquor. Yields 3-4 infusions with subtle evolution. Chinese style uses higher leaf ratio with very short steeps.
Best enjoyed in peaceful settings where subtle flavors can be appreciated. Pairs beautifully with light foods - white fish, mild cheeses, simple cookies. Also excellent alone as a meditation tea. The gentle character makes it suitable throughout the day. Premium Huangshan Mao Feng commands high prices and represents one of China's 'Ten Famous Teas.' The combination of appearance, aroma, and flavor creates a complete aesthetic experience.
Caffeine, in context
Per 250 ml cup, brewed as directed.
Flavor profile
- sweet
- mellow
- delicate
- orchid notes
Health benefits
- antioxidants
- calming
- skin health
- gentle energy
Pairs wonderfully with
- light pastries
- fresh fruit
- almonds
- meditation
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Frequently asked questions
Can you re-steep Mao Feng?
Yes — Mao Feng gives 5 good infusions. Start at 20 seconds and add a little time to each round.
How much caffeine is in Mao Feng?
25 mg per 250 ml cup — Low caffeine.
What water temperature does Mao Feng need?
80°C / 175°F. Hotter water pulls out bitterness; cooler water under-extracts the leaf.
Teafinity times every infusion for you
The app loads this tea's exact schedule, rings even in your pocket, and logs every session — free on iPhone and Android.
