Gongmei Tea | Exquisite White Tea | Benefits and Brewing
Gongmei Tea (Gòngméi Chá)
Tea Category: White Tea
Origin: Fujian Province, China, especially in the regions of Zhenghe, Fuding, and Jianyang
Harvest Time: Spring, typically from late March to early May, when the tea buds and young leaves are at their most tender
Properties: Cool nature, delicate and sweet flavor with floral undertones
1️⃣ Tea Characteristics
Appearance: Composed of tender tea buds and young leaves, often with visible white fuzz. The leaves are loosely twisted and vary in color from light green to silvery-white, sometimes with reddish-brown edges.
Aroma: Fresh and delicate, with prominent floral notes reminiscent of wildflowers, combined with subtle hints of honey and dried fruits. As it ages, the aroma develops more complex notes of dried herbs and wood.
Liquor Color: Pale yellow to light gold when brewed, clear and translucent, with a gentle sheen. Aged Gongmei tea may have a deeper, more amber hue.
Taste: Light-bodied and refreshing, with a smooth, sweet flavor that lingers on the palate. Young Gongmei has a clean, crisp taste, while aged Gongmei offers a more mellow, rich, and complex flavor profile with hints of dried fruits and a slight earthiness.
Type
White Tea
Elevation
300 - 1200m
Caffeine
Low
Vintage
Spring 2024
2️⃣ Health Benefits
- ✅ Rich in Antioxidants:
- Contains high levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins, which are powerful antioxidants. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and may lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders
- ✅ Supports Immune System:
- The antioxidants and other bioactive compounds in Gongmei tea can boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to overall immune health
- ✅ Promotes Skin Health:
- Regular consumption of Gongmei tea can help protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays and environmental pollutants. Its antioxidant properties may reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots, promoting a more youthful complexion
- ✅ Aids in Digestion:
- Gongmei tea can stimulate the digestive system, promoting healthy digestion and preventing issues like bloating and indigestion. It is gentle on the stomach and can be enjoyed after meals
- ✅ Calming and Relaxing:
- With its low caffeine content and the presence of L-theanine, Gongmei tea can have a calming effect on the nervous system. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being
Unique Processing Method: Gongmei tea is minimally processed, undergoing only withering and drying. This gentle process preserves the natural properties of the tea leaves, allowing them to retain a high concentration of beneficial compounds. Additionally, like other white teas, Gongmei tea can be aged, and its flavor and health benefits can improve over time with proper storage.
3️⃣ Brewing Guide
1
Water Temperature: 75 - 85°C (167 - 185°F) for young Gongmei tea; 90 - 95°C (194 - 203°F) for aged Gongmei tea
2
Tea Amount: 3 - 5 grams per 150 - 200ml of water (adjust according to taste and the tea's age)
3
First Infusion: Steep for 2 - 3 minutes for young Gongmei tea; 3 - 4 minutes for aged Gongmei tea, allowing the leaves to gradually release their flavors
4
Subsequent Infusions: Increase the steeping time by 30 - 60 seconds for each additional brew. Gongmei tea can be steeped 5 - 7 times or more, with each infusion offering a unique taste experience
5
Teaware: Glass, porcelain, or clay teaware is recommended. Glassware allows you to appreciate the beautiful color of the liquor, while porcelain and clay teaware can enhance the tea's flavor and aroma
Optimal Consumption:
- 🌞 Morning Refreshment: A cup of Gongmei tea in the morning can provide a gentle energy boost and refresh the senses without the jitters associated with high-caffeine beverages
- 🌞 Afternoon Relaxation: Ideal for an afternoon break, helping to relax the mind and body, and enhancing focus
- 🌙 Evening Wind-down: The calming properties of Gongmei tea make it a great choice for the evening, helping you unwind and prepare for a restful sleep
4️⃣ Product Specifications
- ✅ Origin: Fujian Province, China, where the unique climate and soil conditions contribute to the exceptional quality of the tea
- ✅ Harvest: Hand-picked, carefully selecting tender tea buds and young leaves at the optimal stage of growth
- ✅ Processing: Undergoes natural withering, either outdoors in the sun or indoors, followed by slow drying, which helps preserve the tea's natural characteristics and nutrients
- ✅ Appearance: Loosely formed, with a mix of silver-white buds and greenish-brown leaves, covered in fine white fuzz
- ✅ Active Components:
- Polyphenols (including catechins, flavonoids), which contribute to the tea's antioxidant properties
- L-theanine, an amino acid that provides a calming effect and enhances mental clarity
- Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, and fluoride, which are beneficial for overall health
- ✅ Storage: Store in a cool, dry, dark place in an airtight container. Gongmei tea can be aged for several years, and with proper storage, its flavor will become more complex and its health benefits may increase
Nature
Cool
Flavor
Delicate, Sweet, Floral
Daily Intake
3 - 5 cups (9 - 25 grams total)
📌 Usage Cautions
- ⚠ People with a sensitive stomach may experience discomfort if consuming Gongmei tea on an empty stomach due to its mild tannin content
- ⚠ Although the caffeine content is low, excessive consumption, especially in the evening, may still cause sleep disturbances for some individuals
- ⚠ If you are taking certain medications, especially those that interact with antioxidants, consult a healthcare provider before increasing your intake of Gongmei tea
