On steep, rocky cliffs gracing the sides of Wuyi mountain in the province of Fujian, China live 5 (or 6?) ancient tea trees: the last of their kind. These, “Mother Trees” are apparently, the source of the leaves of the famous Dà Hóng Páo Wū Lóng Chá (大红袍乌龙茶) – ‘Big Red Robe’ Oolong Tea.

Today, it is no longer allowed to harvest their leaves for tea, however cuttings have been taken and clones cultivated to preserve the genetics of these trees for current and future commercial use. Today, whilst there are teas made from first generation cuttings, which fetch high prices, Da Hong Pao is becoming more a “style” of tea-taste, rather than a tea based on a specific tea tree cultivar. As such finding well crafted, true to style AND taste Da Hong Pao Tea is becoming increasingly difficult.

Over the following days, I will be moving away from Yunnan Dancong Teas towards my store of Fujian Da Hong Paos. With approx. five different examples on the shelf, the next few days will be an interesting exploration. #TodaysTea, #今天的茶, #JīnTiāndeChá, #Tea, #茶, #Chá.