Huang Shan Maofeng

Origin

Anhui

Category

Green Tea

Harvest Time

Pre-Qingming

Processing

Pan-firing

Description

Huang Shan Maofeng is a renowned Chinese green tea from the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) region of Anhui Province. It is celebrated for its delicate, downy leaves, fresh, clean aroma, and a smooth, sweet, and refreshing taste.

About Huang Shan Maofeng

Huang Shan Maofeng (黄山毛峰), meaning "Yellow Mountain Fur Peak," is a renowned Chinese green tea originating from the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) region in Anhui Province. It is one of China's top ten famous teas and is celebrated for its distinctive appearance, characterized by fine, downy tips (mao) and pointed leaf buds (feng).

The tea is grown at high altitudes in the misty peaks of Huangshan, benefiting from the unique terroir of the area. The finest grades are harvested before the Qingming Festival, selecting only the most tender buds and young leaves covered with silvery-white down.

Huang Shan Maofeng is known for its light, refreshing flavor, clean aroma, and pale green liquor, embodying the essence of high-quality Anhui green tea.

Key Characteristics

  • Appearance: Slender, pointed buds with visible white down (mao)
  • Aroma: Fresh, clean, subtle, with a light vegetal scent
  • Flavor: Smooth, sweet, refreshing, mellow, with a clean finish
  • Liquor: Pale green, clear, and bright
  • Grade: Premium, often from early spring harvest

Tasting Notes

👃

Aroma

Fresh, clean, subtle, light vegetal

👅

Flavor

Smooth, sweet, refreshing, mellow

Finish

Clean, lingering sweetness with a refreshing aftertaste

History & Origin of Huang Shan Maofeng

Huangshan Mountain

Ancient Origins

The history of tea cultivation in the Huangshan region dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE). However, Huang Shan Maofeng in its current form was developed during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 CE).

The tea was created by a tea master named Xie Zheng'an (谢正安) from Fu Prefecture (now part of Huangshan City). He developed the unique processing method and named it Maofeng, highlighting the fine downy appearance and pointed shape of the leaves.

The tea gained recognition and became one of China's most famous green teas, symbolizing the excellence of Anhui's tea culture. It has been a tribute tea and is now a protected geographical indication product.

"Huang Shan Maofeng captures the essence of the Yellow Mountains in a cup of pure serenity." — Ancient Tea Saying

Historical Timeline

Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE)

Early tea cultivation begins in the Huangshan region.

Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE)

Tea production in the area expands and gains regional importance.

Qing Dynasty (1875 CE)

Xie Zheng'an creates Huang Shan Maofeng with its distinctive processing.

Modern Era (20th Century-Present)

Recognition as one of China's top ten famous teas and global appreciation.

Traditional Processing Method

1. Plucking

Leaves are hand-picked very early in the morning during the Pre-Qingming period. The standard is typically "one bud and one or two leaves" (一芽一、二叶), selecting the finest, most tender shoots with visible down.

2. Withering

Fresh leaves are spread thinly and allowed to wither slightly in a cool, shaded area, reducing moisture content and making them pliable for the next steps.

3. Fixation (Kill-Green)

Leaves are heated in large iron woks at high temperatures to halt oxidation and preserve the green color and fresh flavor. The technique involves tossing and pressing the leaves.

4. Shaping

The leaves are gently shaped by hand in the wok, often pressed and rolled to form the characteristic pointed, slightly twisted appearance while preserving the downy tips.

5. Drying

Final drying at lower temperatures removes remaining moisture and stabilizes the tea for storage, while preserving the shape and aroma.

Maofeng Processing

Traditional Pan-firing Process

"The art of Maofeng lies in preserving the mountain's natural grace within each delicate leaf." — Master Tea Maker

Brewing Guide for Huang Shan Maofeng

Essential Brewing Parameters

Water Temperature

Use water at 75-80°C (167-176°F). Boiling water will scorch the delicate leaves.

Steeping Time

First infusion: 2-3 minutes. Subsequent infusions: Increase by 30-60 seconds.

Tea to Water Ratio

Use 3-4 grams of tea per 150 ml of water for optimal flavor.

Water Quality

Use filtered or spring water for the purest taste.

Brewing Steps

  1. Warm your glass teapot or cup with hot water and discard.
  2. Measure 3-4 grams of Huang Shan Maofeng leaves.
  3. Heat water to 75-80°C (let boiling water cool for 2-3 minutes).
  4. Pour water into the vessel first, then add the leaves (top-down method).
  5. Steep for 2-3 minutes for the first infusion.
  6. Pour liquor into cups.
  7. Can be steeped multiple times (2-4 infusions).

Brewing Tips from Masters

Glass Vessel

Use a clear glass to observe the leaves unfurling.

Top-Down Method

Pour water first, then add leaves for a gentler infusion.

Appreciate Delicacy

Focus on the smooth, clean, and refreshing character.

Spring Season

Best enjoyed in spring to complement its fresh character.

Health Benefits of Huang Shan Maofeng

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

In TCM, Huang Shan Maofeng is considered to have a cool nature with sweet and bitter properties. It is believed to clear heat, detoxify the body, nourish the stomach, and promote mental clarity.

The tea is traditionally recommended for reducing internal heat, improving digestion, and supporting overall well-being, especially during warmer seasons.

Modern Scientific Research

Like other green teas, Huang Shan Maofeng is rich in catechins (especially EGCG), L-theanine, and antioxidants. These compounds contribute to its potential health benefits.

Research suggests that green tea consumption may support cardiovascular health, weight management, cognitive function, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

💚

Antioxidant Protection

Rich in catechins, neutralizes free radicals

🧠

Mental Clarity

Caffeine and L-theanine provide focused alertness

❤️

Heart Health

May support healthy cholesterol and circulation

⚖️

Weight Management

Can boost metabolism and fat oxidation

Digestive Aid

Traditionally used to promote healthy digestion

🦷

Oral Health

Natural compounds may reduce harmful bacteria

Nutritional Profile (per 100ml brewed tea)

Nutrient Amount Daily Value*
Calories 0

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