Wuyi Yancha 奇兰 Qilan, 50g/pack

Qilan (also written as Qí Lán) was first introduced from Anxi to Wuyi in the 1980s and is counted among the famous Ming Cong (rare varieties) of the rock tea region. Our Rock Tea Qilan (2243), medium to strongly roasted (Chinese: 中足火 Zhōng Zú Huǒ), comes from Zheng Yan, a core growing area for Yancha.

We prepared 7g of tea with a 125ml Yixing teapot and 100°C water, initially choosing steeping times of about 10 seconds, which we later extended. Immediately noticeable is the velvety, congee-like, dense consistency, the strong mineral base, and the elegant orchid aroma. This tea almost demands to be chewed. But it also has sweetness, honey-like notes, and longan fruit tones; in later infusions, wood can also be tasted. After drinking, the coolness in the throat stands out before the fascinating huigan doubles the drinking pleasure. Eight infusions can be prepared from this complex tea.