A true treasure of Chinese tea heritage, Xinyang Maojian is one of the most revered green teas in history. During the Tang Dynasty, it was selected as an official tribute tea for the imperial courts — a mark of exceptional quality reserved only for emperors. This premium example comes from high-elevation gardens above 500 meters in the majestic Dabie Mountains of Henan Province, one of China’s northernmost tea regions.
The cool mountain climate and dramatic day-night temperature swings slow the growth of the bushes, concentrating amino acids and creating a naturally rich, complex character that sets this tea apart from softer southern greens. The result is a bold, full-bodied green tea with impressive depth and structure.
In appearance, it is striking: slender, tightly twisted needles of deep emerald green, generously covered in fine silvery-white down and abundant tender tips — clear hallmarks of premium Ming Qian grade and meticulous handcrafting.
When brewed, Xinyang Maojian releases a robust, toasty-nutty aroma with fresh vegetal notes and savory depth. The liquor is bright and vivid, delivering a hearty, complex flavor reminiscent of a fine Cabernet Sauvignon — layered with umami richness, toasted chestnut, and fresh green notes. It offers a satisfying upfront strength with natural sweetness from high amino acid content, followed by a clean, slightly tannic finish that adds structure and elegance without sharpness. This Ming Qian (pre-Qingming) harvest captures the tea at its peak of vitality and concentration. Exceptionally resilient, it excels in gongfu style and can easily deliver 8–12 quality infusions, with the flavor evolving from bold and savory in the early steeps to deeper sweetness and smoothness in later ones.
Xinyang Maojian is a tea for those who appreciate power and nuance in their cup — not delicate or overly floral, but profoundly satisfying with real presence and longevity. It stands as an outstanding choice for connoisseurs seeking an authentic, high-altitude northern Chinese green tea with character, history, and excellent value.
A bold, memorable tea to savor slowly and return to again and again.
