Dancong Huang Pian

Much like the crooked tree in the classic Daoist tale—spared from the axe due to its irregular form and living longer than its peers—this tea’s true value lies beneath its unassuming appearance. Huang Pian, or "yellow pieces," refers to tea leaves and twigs that, while considered aesthetically imperfect for the market, hold a quiet, unexpected charm. This is a high-grade Dancong Huang Pian, known in its origin village of Daping in Wudong as Huaxiang Huang Pian, meaning “flower-fragrance Huang Pian”—a name that highlights its pronounced florality. It shares the vibrant complexity of its Dancong relatives, offering a rainbow of flavors: from the sweetness of dried persimmon to the crisp, floral essence of orchids, with a creamy, mineral-rich liquor that feels juicy on the palate and leaves a fresh, plummy aftertaste. Unlike many Dancongs, however, this tea is gentle and forgiving, encouraging experimentation. Brew it slowly, gong fu style, adjusting the temperature to reveal its many layers as it grows more golden with each infusion, or steep it in a thermos for a richly developed flavor throughout the day. No matter the method, this tea never becomes bitter or astringent, always providing a delightful experience with each sip.

Written by Simone