Zhejiang
Yellow Tea
Spring
Yellowing & Drying
Ping Yang Huang Tang, meaning 'Pingyang Yellow Soup,' is a rare and exquisite Chinese yellow tea from the Pingyang region in Zhejiang Province. Made from tender buds and leaves, it is celebrated for its mellow, sweet flavor, smooth texture, and distinctive golden-yellow liquor with a subtle, fresh aroma.
Ping Yang Huang Tang (平阳黄汤), literally translating to "Pingyang Yellow Soup," is a rare and exquisite Chinese yellow tea originating from the mountainous Pingyang region in southern Zhejiang Province. This tea is part of the renowned "Wenzhou Yellow Tea" family, known for its meticulous production and unique terroir.
Ping Yang Huang Tang is distinguished by its use of tender, young buds and the first one or two leaves (ya zhi 芽枝). The careful selection of raw materials, combined with the traditional yellowing process, results in a tea that is both rare and highly prized for its smooth, mellow character.
The tea is renowned for its distinctive "yellowing" (men huang 蒙黄) process, a crucial step that differentiates yellow teas from green teas. This process imparts a unique mellowness and a subtle, sweet aftertaste. It is considered one of the distinctive yellow teas of Zhejiang and is experiencing a renaissance among tea enthusiasts.
Subtle, fresh, slightly sweet, hint of chestnut
Mellow, smooth, sweet, distinctive yellow tea character
Clean, sweet, lingering, with a subtle "yun" (韵) or resonance
The history of tea cultivation in Pingyang dates back centuries, nestled in the hilly terrain south of Wenzhou. The region's warm, humid climate and fertile, acidic soil create ideal conditions for tea cultivation.
Ping Yang Huang Tang's specific style of yellow tea processing was developed to highlight the unique qualities of the local tea varietals. The "yellowing" process, while complex and time-consuming, imparts the tea with its signature mellowness and depth of flavor.
Although less historically documented than some other famous Chinese teas, Ping Yang Huang Tang has maintained its local significance and is now gaining recognition for its distinct character and quality within the yellow tea category.
"Pingyang's yellow soup captures the essence of southern Zhejiang's mountains in a golden cup." — Local Tea Master
Early records of tea cultivation in the Pingyang region.
Development of yellow tea processing techniques in Wenzhou area.
Revival and recognition as a distinctive regional yellow tea.
Buds and the first one or two leaves are carefully hand-picked during early spring, ensuring only the most tender and fresh material is selected.
Freshly picked leaves are spread out thinly and allowed to wither slightly, reducing moisture and preparing them for the subsequent steps.
The leaves are heated in large woks to halt enzyme activity and prevent oxidation, preserving the leaf structure for the yellowing process.
This is the defining characteristic of yellow tea. The fixed leaves are wrapped in cloth or paper and kept in a warm, humid environment for a controlled period. This allows slow, non-enzymatic oxidation, developing the tea's unique color, mellow flavor, and distinctive aroma.
The tea is dried at a low temperature to remove the remaining moisture, stabilizing it for storage while preserving its shape and aroma.
Traditional Yellowing Process
"The secret of Ping Yang Huang Tang lies in the patient art of 'men huang,' where time and humidity transform the leaf's soul." — Master Tea Maker
Use water at 80-85°C (176-185°F). Slightly cooler than boiling to protect the delicate leaves.
First infusion: 2-3 minutes. Subsequent infusions: Adjust to taste, typically 3-5 minutes.
Use 3-5 grams of tea per 150-200 ml of water.
Use soft, filtered water for the best flavor.
Use a clear glass or gaiwan to observe the color and appreciate the leaves.
Can be steeped several times, with flavors evolving subtly.
Focus on the smooth, mellow, and sweet nature of the tea.
Ideal for a calm moment in the morning or afternoon.
In TCM, Ping Yang Huang Tang, as a yellow tea, is generally considered to have a cool or neutral nature with sweet properties. It is believed to clear heat, aid digestion, and nourish the stomach.
The tea is traditionally recommended for its gentle properties, making it suitable for various constitutions. It is thought to promote relaxation and overall well-being.
Like other yellow teas, Ping Yang Huang Tang contains catechins, L-theanine, and antioxidants. The unique yellowing process may alter the profile of these compounds compared to green teas, potentially affecting their bioactivity.
Research suggests that yellow tea consumption may support immune function, cardiovascular health, and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative benefits.
Contains antioxidants that may help fight free radicals.
L-theanine and caffeine provide calm alertness.
May support healthy cholesterol and circulation.
Can aid in boosting metabolism.
Traditionally used to promote healthy digestion.
Natural compounds may help reduce harmful bacteria.
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 | 0% |
| Caffeine | 15-25mg | 3-5% |
| Antioxidants (Catechins) | Moderate-High | Significant |
| L-Theanine | Moderate | Beneficial |
| Vitamin C | Trace | Minimal |
| Fluoride | Moderate-High | Supportive |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.
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Ping Yang Huang Tang, meaning 'Pingyang Yellow Soup,' is a rare and exquisite Chinese yellow tea from the Pingyang region in Zhejiang Province. Made from tender buds and leaves, it is celebrated for its mellow, sweet flavor, smooth texture, and distinctive golden-yellow liquor with a subtle, fresh aroma.
Huo Shan Huang Ya, meaning 'Yellow Bud of Huo Mountain,' is a rare and prestigious Chinese yellow tea from the Huoshan region in Anhui Province. Made from the finest golden buds, it is celebrated for its delicate, sweet flavor, smooth texture, and distinctive yellow liquor with a subtle floral aroma.
Meng Ding Huang Ya, meaning 'Yellow Bud of Mount Meng,' is a rare and prestigious Chinese yellow tea from the sacred Mount Mengding in Sichuan Province. Made from the finest golden buds, it is celebrated for its delicate, sweet flavor, smooth texture, and distinctive yellow liquor with a subtle floral aroma.
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