Pre-Qingming Dragon Well

Essential Info

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Product Overview

This premium-grade Dragon Well (Longjing) green tea is harvested in early spring 2025, just before the Qingming Festival, from the West Lake region of Hangzhou, China. Made exclusively from the first tender buds of the season, this tea exemplifies the renowned qualities of Dragon Well: flat and slender leaves, jade-green luster, and exquisite uniformity. Carefully handpicked and crafted using traditional pan-firing techniques, this tea preserves the freshness and vitality of the spring harvest. As one of China’s most celebrated teas and often referred to as the “Empress of Tea,” Pre-Qingming Dragon Well is ideal for personal enjoyment or as a distinguished gift.

Taste & Aroma

Dragon Well is famed for its signature fresh bean aroma, which arises immediately upon brewing. The fragrance is layered with subtle hints of chestnut and fresh-cut grass, offering a clean and comforting sensory experience. On the palate, the tea is brisk and smooth — a touch of initial astringency gives way to a lingering, sweet aftertaste. The liquor is bright yellow-green, crystal-clear and elegant. With its nuanced flavor and delicate texture, this tea delivers a refreshing and uplifting drinking experience, perfect for mindful appreciation or hosting guests.

Health Benefits

As an unfermented green tea, Dragon Well is rich in natural antioxidants such as polyphenols, catechins, amino acids, vitamin C, and chlorophyll. These components are known to help combat free radicals, support healthy metabolism, and slow signs of aging. Its moderate caffeine content can aid in mental focus and reduce fatigue. In traditional Chinese medicine, green tea is considered cooling in nature, making it especially suitable for spring and summer. Dragon Well may also help soothe the throat, aid digestion, and promote overall well-being when enjoyed regularly.

Brewing Guide

Due to its delicate nature, Dragon Well requires careful attention to temperature and brewing method. Here’s how to enjoy it best:

• Tea-to-Water Ratio: Use about 3g of tea per 150ml (5 oz) of water
• Water Temperature: Between 80°C and 85°C (176–185°F) — too hot will damage the tender buds
• Brewing Method: 
  • Pour water first, then add the leaves to avoid scalding
  • Gently swirl or tilt the cup to help the leaves unfold gracefully
  • Steep the first and second infusions for 30–45 seconds; increase steeping time for later rounds
• Re-steeping: Up to 3–4 infusions with consistent flavor and aroma
• Recommended Vessels: A glass or porcelain cup or a white gaiwan is ideal for viewing leaf shape and tea color