Чай Дянь Хун: история юньнаньского красного чая
Dian Hong is a Chinese red tea from the Yunnan province, widely renowned not only in China but also worldwide. The tea's name translates as "Yunnan red" or "Dian red." Its main distinguishing feature is the presence of golden-hued buds. This special tea is said to have been created for the tea parties of Chinese high society and was an excellent gift for all foreign delegations that ever visited China.
The Legend of the Origin of Dian Hong Tea
According to the legend of Dian Hong's origins, the story of this unique tea begins with a tale of fortunate people living in a Yunnan village and growing tea. It would seem nothing special, if not for one incident...
Many years ago, a general mobilization was declared in Yunnan Province. Villagers learned of this while they were picking tea. Wives and mothers filled their husbands' and sons' duffel bags with unopened buds and tea leaves, which they immediately set out on their journey. Arriving at their base, they roasted their precious load and noticed the beautiful brown hue of the tea. The men brewed the mixture and were pleasantly surprised by the magnificent taste and distinctive aroma of the freshly brewed tea. Since then, Dian Hong has gained thousands of fans worldwide.
The history of tea
The true origin story of Dian Hong tea began relatively recently. Yunnan tea growers produced and exported Sheng Pu'er tea to South Asian countries for centuries. This continued until 1935, when this tea underwent a completely different processing. It was then that its stunning flavor and nutty, fruity aroma were truly appreciated by the British at the Wuhan Exhibition, who dubbed it Yunnan red tea.
Tea growing regions
Dian Hong tea is grown in China's Yunnan province at an altitude of 1,000–2,000 meters above sea level. Its primary and most popular growing area is Fengqing. This city is actually the birthplace of this variety, which translates as "Yunnan red" or "Dian red." Today, Dian Hong is the name given to any tea variety produced in Yunnan Province that produces a reddish-colored infusion. However, initially, this name was given to any tea from Lincang County (Fengqing County), produced using a special Fujian technique. Today, the Fengqing Dian Hong Factory is located here, producing Dian Hong, which is considered the second most popular tea beverage after Pu'er. Due to the mild climate, the tea leaves and buds are harvested throughout nine months of the year. The best harvest is in the autumn, as at this time of year, the tea shoots are distinguished by their tender leaves, and the infusion has a rich flavor and magnificent aromatic notes.
What types of Dian Hong exist?
Based on the quality and form of the final product, tea is divided into the following varieties:
- Gongfu Cha is considered the highest grade of this tea. The tea bush is characterized by rather sturdy, striped leaves covered in numerous fine hairs. The infusion has a rich, reddish flavor and a stunning aroma.
- Ye Cha is distinguished by its long, tightly twisted, shiny, hairy leaves. When brewed, it produces a strong, thick infusion.
- Sui Cha has small, crushed leaves with a fairly dense texture. The infusion is reddish in color and has a tonic taste.
- Pian Cha has beautiful fan-shaped leaves and a delicate flavor.
- Mo Cha is considered the lowest grade of this type of tea due to its powdery appearance. It is characterized by a black color and a rather rich flavor.
Production technology
Dian Hong is produced from young tea leaves and buds, and the process involves picking, withering, rolling, pressing, and roasting the raw materials. The tea is harvested almost year-round, but the autumn harvest is considered the best. The medium-sized, unopened leaves are especially prized; they are withered for several hours, then rolled and pressed to achieve the desired shape. The tea is then roasted over an open fire to bring out the rich flavor of this red tea , so renowned among experts worldwide.
How to brew Dian Hong tea correctly
To properly brew Dian Hong, use hot water (80–85°C) and 5 grams of tea per 120 ml of water. A Yixing clay teapot is best. The tea should steep for only 3–5 seconds, then drain. A second steeping should be done for 10–15 seconds. You can steep the tea multiple times, increasing the steeping time by 5–10 seconds each time. On average, this amazing tea will last for 3–4 steepings. Then, pour the infusion into cups.
Now you know how to brew Dian Hong. The key when preparing this drink is to avoid over-brewing, as too many leaves will create a bitter taste, which can ruin the overall Chinese tea experience.
Description of taste and aroma
Dian Hong has a tart flavor, a lingering honey-nut aroma, and soft woody undertones. The finished infusion has a magnificent golden-brown color.
What are the effects of Dian Hong tea?
The main effect of Dian Hong tea is a combination of warming and tonic properties: the drink invigorates, increases productivity, and helps improve mood. This amazing tea cleanses the body, removes waste and toxins, normalizes the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and digestion, and does not irritate the stomach lining. It is recommended for those suffering from digestive disorders.
It counteracts the formation of cancer cells and reduces weight. Dian Hong is known as a winter tea drink because it is renowned for its warming effect. Drinking it induces sweating, which helps remove harmful bacteria waste products from the body. Therefore, the tea is effective for colds, acute respiratory infections, and is a wonderful warming drink in damp weather.
The miraculous properties don't end there: it perfectly rejuvenates the skin, invigorates, and improves mood throughout the day. It is recommended for people and even children suffering from liver, pancreas, and genitourinary diseases. Yunnan tea is also an excellent preventative measure. Ancient Chinese healers often used this tea to strengthen teeth and gums. It improves performance and relieves headaches after stressful situations or a hard day at work. You can choose Dian Hong from our catalog to see for yourself its healing properties.
Interesting facts about tea
Dian Hong is an elite tea created specifically for Chinese high society and designed for true connoisseurs. After being auctioned in London, this Yunnan tea gained a following worldwide and continues to win the hearts of connoisseurs of this exquisite beverage. Dian Hong was a favorite tea of Queen Elizabeth, who loved to brew it in transparent teacups and savor its tart flavor and sweet, fruity aroma in the evenings.
Undoubtedly, everyone can find something unique in the taste and aroma of Chinese tea. This drink leaves behind a honey-nutty flavor, and its aroma lifts the mood even on the gloomiest winter day. Be sure to try Yunnan red tea and discover new facets of this magnificent beverage.