Description

Yunnan Baihao Yinzhen

Silvery Elegance with Ethereal Sweetness

Yunnan Baihao Yinzhen (White Hair Silver Needle) is a prestigious white tea celebrated for its pure simplicity and refined character. Sourced exclusively from the tender, downy buds of Yunnan’s ancient large-leaf tea trees, this tea undergoes minimal processing to preserve its natural essence. When brewed, it yields a delicately sweet, creamy liquor with a luminous clarity and a lingering honeyed finish, offering a serene and uplifting tea experience that captures the pristine spirit of its high-altitude origins.

Tea Profile

• Type: White tea (bud-only plucking)
• Base Tea: Early spring tea buds from Yunnan ancient large-leaf varietals
• Origin: Jinggu, Lincang, or other high-altitude areas in Yunnan, China

Appearance

• Dry Leaves: Plump, straight, needle-shaped buds covered in dense, silvery-white pekoe
• Liquor: Pale, bright apricot-yellow, clear and luminous

Growing Conditions

• Climate: High-altitude subtropical climate with significant diurnal temperature variation
• Elevation: 1500-2000 meters above sea level
• Environment: Cloud-shrouded mountains, pristine and pollution-free ecosystems
• Cultivation: Natural and ecological farming methods, no pesticides

Harvest & Processing

• Tea Plucking: Early spring (Late February to March), exclusively single fat buds
• Processing: Traditional white tea method – primarily solar withering, minimal handling to retain natural state

Shelf Life:

• Under proper storage conditions (clean, dry, ventilated, away from light and strong odors), this Yunnan White Tea / Baihao Yinzhen can be stored for decades. As a post-fermented tea, it does not expire but evolves. Its flavor transforms from fresh and floral to mellow and honey-sweet over the years, developing rich notes of dates and Chinese herbs. It is a treasured tea for aging and collection.

Flavor & Sensory Experience

• Aroma: Subtle, elegant dried flower and honey aroma
• Taste: Fresh, clean, sweet, and smooth with a thick, creamy texture
• Mouthfeel: Silky, refreshing, with a long-lasting sweet aftertaste reminiscent of fresh fruits and melon

Brewing Guide：

• Teaware: Gaiwan or transparent glass cup recommended
• Water Temperature: 85-90°C (185-194°F)
• Leaf Amount: 3-5 grams
• Steeping Time:

  ① First Steep: Rinse & Awaken the Buds (5 seconds)

  • Quickly pour hot water over the tea

  • Discard the rinse
    This helps the buds open and enhances aroma release.

  ② Second Steep: 10–15 seconds

  • Expect a smooth, pale golden liquor

  • Flavor: honey-sweet, soft, refreshing, with light floral notes

  ③ Third Steep: 15–25 seconds

  • The buds open fully

  • The flavor deepens with a round, elegant sweetness

  ④ Subsequent Steeps

  • Can be brewed 6–10 times

  • Extend steeping by 5–10 seconds with each infusion

• 🌸Tasting Tips

  • Enjoy warm to capture the tea’s natural sweetness and subtle fragrance

  • A glass cup allows you to enjoy the “beautiful rising” of the buds as they stand upright before sinking slowly

  • Avoid boiling water — it will dull the flavor and burn the tender buds

  • Silver Needle pairs well with fresh fruit, mild cheeses, and simple desserts

Health Benefits

• Promotes relaxation and mental clarity
• Rich in antioxidants for cellular health
• Supports skin health and natural detoxification

Perfect For

• Mindful morning rituals and tranquil moments
• Special occasions and refined gatherings
• Pairing with light fruit, mild cheeses, or delicate desserts