China Lung Ching – Organic Green Tea

Brew & Taste

The beautiful color reminiscent of a jade gemstone is a feast for the eyes, but the main thing about Lung Ching is its perfectly balanced flavor with a hint of nuts.

Origins

There are many teas commonly available on the market with the Dragon's Well label. The only real one, however, must come from the mountainous Zheijang province in the southeast of China. And if, as in our case, it is also a Lung Ching from the vicinity of the famous West Lake, then you are guaranteed to taste an absolutely unique tea of the highest quality and class.

It is said that the drink earned its name from a well in a tea grove amidst the beautiful natural scenery surrounding West Lake. According to legend, there was a severe drought in the area around 250AD and farmers prayed for rain for a long time. A Taoist monk came to the well and discovered a dragon's lair. He asked the dragon for rain and at that moment clouds came rushing in from all sides, saving the crops. As a token of thanks, the tea was named Dragon's Well.

As early as the 8th century AD, the writer and tea master Yu Lu mentioned it in his now-acclaimed book on famous Chinese teas. During the Qing dynasty, it was referred to as the imperial tea and over time it established a unique status as the national drink. In fact, until recently, growers reportedly sent premium grade Lung Ching to the government instead of taxes.

The harvesting of Dragon's Well must take place in early April before the arrival of the spring rains. Only the first leaves with buds are hand-picked and then spread on wicker trays. After a few hours, the first round of heat treatment takes place. The leaves are pressed against a current of very hot air before being carefully roasted on large pans under close supervision.

The best Lung Ching is then recognized by four basic characteristics. The dried leaves should have a typically flat shape caused by high temperature air pressing, and the resulting infusion should enchant you with its unique green jade color, orchid-like aroma and sweet finish.

Tea packaging preview

We pack our teas in a strong, zip-lock aluminum packet which allows you to easily re-seal its contents. This container protects the quality of the tea against humidity, light or foreign odors, all of which could noticeably affect the quality of the brew.