Laoshan Green 2026

Mr. Tang's family are generational tea farmers in Laoshan Mountain of Qingdao, Shandong. Shandong is located in Northeastern China. It is named after Mount Lao, a magnificent mountain range recognized by its striking, slim, elongated cliffs.

The many small plots that make up Mr. Tang's tea farm are scattered along the coastline at the foot of Mount Lao. Some are distributed right along the beaches, exposed to the salty wind that blows off of the water, while others are tucked slightly up into the forested hills, protected by the pine trees and the mountain behind them.

The mountain minerals and the constriction that comes with cooler temperatures give these teas a great richness, and the wet air coming off of the ocean gives them an unmistakable salinity. Because of the colder climate, the first harvest of Laoshan green tea is almost a month later than the first harvest of green teas from tea regions in Southern China. These leaves are hand harvested by Mr. Tang's mother and grandmother then pan fried in a charcoal-fired wok by Mr. Tang's father and uncles, all generational craftsmen.

The impeccable quality of this tea is noticeable at first glance and the smell of the delicate, uniform leaves is very enjoyable, even before you add water. This harvest is very balanced in its qualities: it is as refreshing as it is rich, and as salty as it is sweet. Its champagne colour liquor has a rich, nutty aroma and a soft, oceanic taste. On the finish we find a light, uplifting astringency with a honeyed cereal undertone. This balancing act gives this tea a very satisfying fullness. It will be especially enjoyed by those who prefer a green tea that isn't too cooling.