Laoshan Black

This tea is crafted by Mr. Tang, whose family are generational tea farmers in Laoshan Mountain of Qingdao, Shandong. Located along the coastline in Northeastern China, Laoshan is named after Mount Lao, a magnificent mountain range recognized by its striking elongated cliffs that run alongside the ocean.

Some of the small plots that make up Mr. Tang's tea farm are distributed 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 tranquility of Mr. Tang's tea farm is resounding, and extends between its many parts. Following a path that connects the plots next to the ocean to the ones tucked away in the forest, the sound of the waves progressively gives way to the sound of forest birds and running springs and the scent of the ocean turns into the scent of red pines and green plum.

Teas from Laoshan have a distinct taste when compared to other teas from Southern China. The mountain minerals and the cooler temperatures give them richness, and the wet air coming off of the ocean imparts umami and an unmistakable saline taste to them.

This harvest brews an especially bright liquor that looks sharp and distilled. The dried, curled leaves appear like metal shavings in the gaiwan. They deliver a refreshing 'upwards energy,' reminding us of the energetics of Japanese green teas.

Teas from Laoshan are also known for their soothing, chocolaty undertone, and this one is no exception. These warm, rich notes provide a beautiful foundation for this tea's sencha-like qualities. We are appreciating the clearing aspects of this year's harvest, and its direct expression of its unique terroir.