Yunnan (Dianhong) Tea

Yunnan black teas are rich and peppery tea indigenous southwestern China nearest the Himalayas. It is thought that tea plants may have originated from this region, however, cultivation of black tea, for which the province is most famous today, only began in 1939. Yunnan black tea is made from the distinct Dayeh cultivar, or subvariety, of Camellia sinesis. The dry tea is easily recognizable because of its broad, thick, soft leaves and fat buds. There is often so much of the bud in the dry product has a golden color.

The finest grade of Yunnan are often labeled golden Yunnan because of the color lended by the buds to the finished product. Yunnan makes a richness makes it a great morning brew that also has enough complexity to be enjoyed throughout the day. Yunnan is certainly a self drinker, but it is also used to good effect as a base for fancy iced teas and Russian Caravan Blends.