Verdant Tea Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea

Embarking on a sensory journey with the esteemed 'Verdant Tea Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea', we find ourselves nestled in the lush, serene landscapes that birth this magnificent blend. As we unfold the layers of this tea's story, we are greeted by the rich history and meticulous craftsmanship that define its essence. The leaves, handpicked with precision, speak of a heritage deeply rooted in tradition. Upon steeping, the tea reveals a symphony of flavors, harmoniously balancing the boldness typical of black teas with the subtle, nuanced notes characteristic of the Shi Feng Dragonwell variety. Each sip is a testament to the tea's impeccable quality, offering a taste experience that is both profound and enlightening. As we delve deeper into this review, we invite you to savor the artistry and passion infused in every cup of the Verdant Tea Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea. Check out our Tea Clubs page to compare and read more reviews of our favorite Tea clubs.

Background

Verdant Tea is a shining example of excellence in the world of tea connoisseurship, embodying a deep dedication to discovering the finest tea experiences. Verdant Tea has carved a distinct niche in the tea industry by adhering to the principles of authenticity, sustainability, and direct sourcing. Their journey began with a simple yet profound goal: to bridge the gap between tea growers and tea lovers, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the art of tea making.

The dedication to showcasing the diversity and richness of tea is at the heart of Verdant Tea's philosophy. They specialize in sourcing rare and artisanal teas from the most revered tea-growing regions, each with its own personality and story. These teas are more than just beverages; they are cultural narratives steeped in ancient traditions, local customs, and the growers' personal stories.

Verdant Tea's selection goes beyond the usual tea offerings, presenting a curated collection of everything from timeless classics to innovative blends. Their dedication to quality can be seen in every aspect of their business, from the careful selection of leaves to the expert handling and packaging that ensures the tea's freshness and flavor.

Verdant Tea is well-known for their educational initiatives, in addition to their exceptional teas. Through detailed tasting notes, brewing guides, and stories about the origins and artisans behind each tea, they aim to cultivate a community of informed tea enthusiasts. This educational approach empowers consumers, enabling them to become active participants in the tea experience rather than passive observers.

The impact of Verdant Tea goes beyond the cup. They are deeply committed to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing, ensuring that their operations benefit the environment and tea farmers' lives. This dedication to sustainability and ethical business practices has earned them a devoted following among those who value not only quality tea but also integrity and mindfulness in its production.

Why Choose Verdant Tea

In the vast ocean of tea brands, Verdant Tea emerges as an island of excellence, offering a myriad of compelling reasons for the discerning tea enthusiast to anchor their preferences here. Let’s explore why Verdant Tea is not just a choice, but an experience worth cherishing.

Direct Sourcing and Authentic Relationships: At the core of Verdant Tea's philosophy lies its commitment to direct sourcing. This means they build genuine, lasting relationships with small-scale tea farmers, ensuring that every leaf in your cup is a product of mutual respect and understanding. This direct line to the source not only guarantees unparalleled quality but also supports and uplifts the communities that have stewarded these tea traditions for generations.

Unrivaled Quality and Variety: Verdant Tea’s catalog is a testament to their dedication to quality. From the classic elegance of black teas to the delicate nuances of rare white teas, each variety is curated with the utmost care. This diverse range includes exclusive, small-batch releases, offering a tasting experience that is both unique and enlightening.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices: In an era where sustainability is not just a choice but a responsibility, Verdant Tea sets a commendable example. Their commitment to environmentally friendly practices and ethical sourcing ensures that each purchase contributes to a healthier planet and a fairer deal for the farmers.

Educational Approach to Tea Drinking: Verdant Tea excels not only in providing quality tea but also in enriching the consumer's understanding of it. Through detailed tasting notes, brewing guides, and stories about the tea's origins, they transform every cup into a learning experience. This approach deepens the appreciation for the subtleties of flavor and the artistry behind tea production.

Commitment to Freshness and Flavor: The team at Verdant Tea understands that the essence of a great tea lies in its freshness and flavor. Therefore, they go to great lengths to ensure that their teas are stored and handled in ways that preserve their inherent qualities, delivering a sensory experience that is both pure and profound.

Community and Cultural Connection: Choosing Verdant Tea means becoming part of a community that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of tea. It's an opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share experiences, and be part of a global conversation about this timeless beverage.

Learn more about Verdant Tea here.

Summary 

Li Xiaoping set aside a portion of her precious in-demand Dragonwell to make this special black tea - fully oxidized in the sun, and hand curled in a wok. Notes of chocolate milk, cinnamon, honey and tangerine zest with cooling mineral texture

Li Xiaoping is an award-winning, respected community leader growing true Dragonwell in the tiny coveted Shi Feng (Lion’s Peak) micro-region with over fifty years experience. Her tea is fed by volcanic mountain springs, shaded by bamboo and evergreens, and grown using organic techniques, hand-picked and hand finished on a wok

For the sixth year in a row, Li Xiaoping is sharing her new Dragonwell Black Tea! She uses the same delicate early buds as her famous green tea, hand-picked from the slopes of Shi Feng, raised on sweet mountain spring water and covered in high elevation mist to protect against sunlight. After light twisting and rolling, this sweet, rich and distinctly mineral-laden tea is then set out in bamboo baskets and loosely covered for ten to fifteen hours and allowed to oxidize in the afternoon heat. This oxidation process brings out savory malty flavors in Li Xiaoping’s Dragonwell that show the unique texture of the region in a completely different light.

Tasting Profile

Savory - Chocolate milk, toasted walnut

Spice - Cinnamon

Floral - Honey

Fruit - Tangerine zest

Texture - Mineral-driven, cooling

Results

A Symphony of Flavors: The first and most striking result is the complex flavor profile. Upon tasting, one is immediately greeted with a luxurious blend of chocolate milk, cinnamon, honey, and tangerine zest. This rich tapestry of flavors is a testament to the meticulous sun-oxidation and hand-curling process. The cooling mineral texture, a signature of the Shi Feng terroir, adds an exquisite finish to each sip.

Aromatic Bliss: The tea exudes an inviting aroma that sets the stage for the brewing experience. The scent is a delicate balance between earthiness and a sweet bouquet, creating an aromatic bliss that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Calm and Mindfulness: Beyond its taste and aroma, brewing this black tea is an exercise in mindfulness and serenity. The act of preparing, steeping, and savoring this tea can be a tranquil retreat from the bustle of everyday life, offering a moment of calm and reflection.

Cultural Appreciation: Each cup of Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea is a journey into the rich history and tradition of Chinese tea cultivation. It embodies the expertise of tea master Li Xiaoping and her deep connection to the land. This cultural appreciation adds depth and meaning to the drinking experience.

Healthful Indulgence: Black tea is known for its health benefits, including antioxidants and potential heart health advantages. Enjoying this tea melds pleasure with wellness, offering a healthful indulgence that complements a conscious lifestyle.

Bottom Line

Verdant Tea's Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea is an example of quality in the world of fine teas, a testament to the art of tea making. This tea is more than just a drink; it's an adventure through layers of complex flavors, deep traditions, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The tea itself is a symphony of flavors, with chocolate milk, cinnamon, honey, and tangerine zest all perfectly harmonized to create a rich, full-bodied experience. The distinctive sun-oxidation process and careful hand-curling in a wok impart a bold and refined character. The Shi Feng terroir's cooling mineral texture adds an exquisite finish that lingers long after the last sip.

Furthermore, in our fast-paced world, this tea serves as an indicator of mindfulness and tranquility. The act of brewing and savoring it invites a pause, a rare and valuable moment of serene reflection.

In conclusion, Verdant Tea's Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea is a work of art, combining exquisite flavors, cultural richness, and mindful enjoyment. It's a tea that should be experienced, savored, and appreciated rather than just tasted. This is an excellent choice for those looking for a tea that goes beyond the ordinary.

As an avid tea enthusiast, I understand the immense variety of teas out there. If Verdant Tea's Shi Feng Dragonwell Black Tea doesn't align with your tastes, I encourage you to delve into our other tea reviews. There, you might find an option that resonates more with your personal flavor preferences!

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