Yunnan Red Snail Black Tea

Yunnan Red Snail Dian Hong is the classic and widely beloved version of spiral-shaped black tea. Made from one bud and one or two leaves, it offers a robust, satisfying cup that is both sweet and substantial. Its dark, reddish-brown spirals with occasional gold tips brew into a rich, coppery-red liquor.

Tea Profile

• Type: Fully oxidized black tea.

• Origin: High-altitude tea gardens in Yunnan, China (e.g., Fengqing, Lincang), where ideal climate and soil conditions yield exceptional tea leaves.

• Cultivation Conditions:
  Grown at elevations of 1,500–2,000 meters in mineral-rich red soil with abundant sunshine, cool nights, and misty mornings. These conditions enhance the tea’s natural sweetness and complexity.

• Harvest Season:
  Exclusively harvested in spring (March–April) when the tea bushes produce their most tender buds and leaves.

Flavor & Sensory Experience

• Appearance: The dried leaves exhibit a deep, russet-brown or auburn-red base with occasional golden tips, presenting a warmer and darker visual tone compared to Golden Snail.

• Aroma: Warm and inviting aromas of baked yams, honey, and dried fruit.

• Taste:  Full-bodied and rounded with prominent notes of malt, dark caramel, and a hint of stone fruit. The sweetness is bold and direct, with a clean, comforting finish.

• Mouthfeel: Plush and round.

Brewing Recommendations

1. Teaware: Use a porcelain teapot or glass cup to appreciate its beautiful color and aroma.

2. Water Temperature: 90–95°C (194–203°F).

3. Leaf-to-Water Ratio: 3–4 grams per 200ml of water.

4. Steeping Skills:

   • First infusion: Pour water vigorously along the inner wall of the vessel in a circular motion to stimulate aroma. Immediately decant the tea soup within 5-8 seconds (this step rinses and awakens the tea; discard the liquid).

   • Second to Fifth Infusions: Pour water gently to avoid over-extracting bitterness. Increase the brewing time incrementally by 5-10 seconds per infusion (e.g., 10 seconds for the second infusion, 15 seconds for the third, and so on).

   • Subsequent Infusions: As the tea flavor weakens, extend brewing time to 30-60 seconds and increase water temperature to 95°C to enhance extraction.

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and theaflavins, this tea may help boost energy, support cardiovascular health, aid digestion, and enhance mental focus. Its low bitterness makes it ideal for drinking without additives.

Perfect For

• For those new to black tea or seeking a gentle, sweet daily brew.

• Afternoon tea sessions or pairing with light desserts.

• Gifting tea lovers due to its unique appearance and exquisite taste.

A symbol of Yunnan’s tea artistry, Golden Snail Dian Hong offers a sip of pure golden indulgence.