The origin of Dahongpao Tea is Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province. Wuyi Mountain enjoys the reputation of being a “Tea Mountain” and is renowned both at home and abroad as the birthplace of high-quality Wuyi Rock Tea and genuine Black Tea. Selected from exceptional single-bushes in the Wuyi Mountain tea gardens, it is meticulously crafted using traditional hand methods. Its outstanding quality makes it one of China's special-name teas and also one of the top ten famous Chinese teas.
The Environment of Dahongpao's Origin
The climate is mild with warm winters and cool summers, with an annual average temperature between 18 to 18.5°C; there is abundant rainfall, with an annual precipitation of around 2000mm. Between the peaks and rock formations, clear streams flow, and the mountain is often shrouded in mist, with an annual average relative Humidity of about 80%. Most of the tea gardens are located in deep valleys and ravines surrounded by mountains, which shield them from direct sunlight and wind damage.
The geology of Wuyi Mountain belongs to the Cretaceous Wuyi Formation, with its lower part composed of quartz porphyry, and its middle part consisting of gravel, red sandstone, shale, tuff, and volcanic breccia layered together. The parent rock material for the tea garden soil is mainly volcanic breccia, red sandstone, and shale. The suitable soil contributes to the superior quality of the rock tea. The landscape features crystal-clear waters, vermilion mountains, steep cliffs, deep gorges, high-altitude springs, rocky soils, and abundant foggy rains, with early morning sun and more shade during the day.
Quality Characteristics of Dahongpao
The main characteristics of Dahongpao include rock fragrance and a distinct terroir, as well as specific traits such as dry tea appearance, liquor color, taste, and more:
Shape: Tight, robust, slightly twisted. Color: Lustrous with a precious-stone hue or oiliness. Purity: Clean.
Aroma: Sharp, long-lasting, or subtle and far-reaching. Flavor: Distinct rock character, full-bodied, sweet and refreshing, with lingering aroma in the cup.
Liquor color: Clear and lustrous, deep Orange-yellow or orange-red. Leaf base: Soft, bright, uniform, with reddish edges or a carmine hue.
High-quality Dahongpao is not only judged by its appearance but also by its taste and origin-specific characteristics. To truly experience the unique charm and value of Dahongpao tea, you should seek products that possess these qualities.