This tea is grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, by teamasters Wu Hua and Hu Ailan. What differentiates Gong Mei from other white teas is that it is a is that it comes from a different varietal of tea bush (xiaocai) than that typically used to make silver needle, white peony, and Shou Mei. While its flavor is similar to Shou Mei, its leaves are noticeably smaller, greener, and more delicate.
In a word, its flavor is varied, changing from infusion to infusion depending on how it is brewed. Its flavor is round and earthy, without any heavy body element. Dry, its smell is subtle and slightly smokey. Wet, it smells grounded, awakening, and spicy, like dry wood. Elements of hay and alfalfa are more present in early and stronger brews, giving way to more a more subtle, smooth, succulent sweetness with a touch of tart, reminiscent of wheatgrass or a freshly watered garden.
This teas is ready to drink now, and is also perfectly suited for aging. Once this teas has been brewed seemingly to exhaustion, it can be placed in boiling water for further infusions, giving this tea an extremely long lifespan. Brewed in this manner, its flavor is sweet and warming.
Price is per 50 grams/1.76 ounces