Fragrant Concubine (By TNTs)
Dianhong · Fragrant Concubine is a specialty black tea from high-altitude tea regions in Yunnan, China, renowned for its distinctive plum fragrance, rich sweetness, and long-lasting aftertaste. This tea combines traditional Dianhong craftsmanship with innovative fermentation techniques, giving it a unique and captivating flavor.
Characteristics
The raw materials for Fragrant Concubine are sourced from high-altitude ecological tea gardens in Yunnan, such as Fengqing,Lincang, regions famous for their ancient tea trees and high-quality tea leaves. The large day-night temperature difference, mist-covered mountains, and fertile soil contribute to the tea’s abundant aromatic compounds and rich internal components.
The dry leaves appear tightly twisted, with prominent golden tips and a glossy black hue. Once brewed, the tea liquor turns a bright, amber-red, offering a smooth, sweet taste with a hint of ripe plum fragrance and a lingering aftertaste.
Taste and Aroma Profile
- Primary Aroma: Natural plum and honey fragrance
- Flavor Profile: Smooth, mellow, and fruity
- Tea Liquor: Bright red, rich, and full-bodied
Compared to traditional Dianhong tea, Fragrant Concubine exhibits a more pronounced fruity fragrance, particularly a unique ripe plum sweetness, which results from its special fermentation process.
Processing Craftsmanship
Fragrant Concubine follows traditional Dianhong production techniques, combined with innovative fermentation methods, which enhance its distinctive plum aroma. The key steps include:
- Careful Withering: The tea is withered under controlled temperature and humidity for an extended period, allowing the release of aromatic compounds.
- Gentle Rolling: This step preserves the tea leaves' integrity while enhancing the extraction of internal substances.
- Unique Fermentation: A special plum fragrance transformation process develops the natural plum-like sweetness, without artificial flavor additives.
- Low-Temperature Roasting: The tea is gently roasted to lock in the fragrance and stabilize the tea’s flavor, ensuring a smooth and mellow taste.
Brewing Guide
- Tea Leaves: 3-5g
- Water Temperature: 90-95°C (194-203°F)
- Steeping Time: 15 seconds for the first infusion, increasing by 5-10 seconds for subsequent brews
- Recommended Teaware: Gaiwan, Yixing clay teapot, or glass cup (for a visual appreciation of the tea liquor)
Ideal for
- Tea lovers who appreciate a sweet, fruity, and honey-like taste.
- Those who seek a smooth, mellow black tea with a lingering aftertaste.
- Individuals looking for a tea that can help refresh the mind and relax the body.
Health Benefits and Enjoyment
Fragrant Concubine is not only rich in flavor but also packed with polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants, which can aid digestion, warm the stomach, and provide an energy boost. The natural fusion of fruit fragrance and the richness of black tea makes it an excellent choice for daily enjoyment as well as a premium gift or collector’s item.
