Description

A Classic Yunnan Red Tea with Remarkable Elegance

Dian Hong Song Zhen (Pine Needles) is one of the most admired and celebrated styles of Yunnan red tea. Its name refers to the long, slender shape of the leaves, resembling delicate pine needles—a hallmark of one of the finest leaf grades used in Dian Hong production.

Harvested in Spring 2026, this tea is crafted from carefully selected young buds and tender leaves, creating a cup that is vibrant, smooth, and exceptionally aromatic. Every infusion delivers comforting warmth, natural sweetness, and the unmistakable character that has made Dian Hong one of China’s most beloved red teas.

Gentle yet energizing, it helps restore focus, ease fatigue, and brighten the day with every cup.

Appearance and tasting notes

The dry leaves are beautifully rolled into elegant needle-like shapes, combining dark leaves with golden buds that shimmer throughout the tea. Their expressive aroma reveals layers of honey, warm spices, freshly baked bread, ripe berries, and delicate fruit.

The infusion is bright, clear, and full-bodied. Its bouquet unfolds with the classic richness expected from premium Dian Hong, offering notes of honey, baking spices, ripe berries, citrus fruits, dried fruits, and freshly baked pastries. The aroma is dense, warming, and wonderfully persistent.

The liquor is velvety, naturally sweet, and gently spicy, with a smooth texture and remarkable depth. A long, lingering finish leaves subtle citrus brightness alongside refreshing berry acidity.

Character and Experience

Dian Hong Song Zhen is an ideal everyday tea for both mornings and afternoons. Rich without being heavy, it delivers lasting sweetness, comforting warmth, and a beautifully balanced character.

Its gentle stimulation promotes clarity, focus, and inner balance while maintaining the smooth, calming qualities that make premium Chinese black tea so enjoyable throughout the day.

How to brew

Gongfu Style

• Clay teapot for black tea or porcelain gaiwan
• Water temperature: 90–95°C (194–203°F)
• Tea-to-water ratio: 3–4 g per 100 ml
• Enjoy 6–7 infusions, gradually increasing the steeping time with each brew.

Western Style

• Glass or porcelain teapot
• Water temperature: 90–95°C (194–203°F)
• Tea-to-water ratio: 4–5 g per 500 ml
• Warm the teapot with hot water, add the tea leaves, pour in water cooled to the correct temperature, and steep for 4–5 minutes before serving.

Origin

• Tea: Dian Hong Song Zhen (Pine Needles)
• Type: Chinese Black Tea (Hong Cha)
• Origin: Yunnan Province, China
• Harvest: Spring 2026
• Leaf Grade: Young buds and tender leaves
• Processing: Traditional hand-crafted Yunnan black tea