Chen Xiang Tanyang Gongfu

Harvest: Spring 2023

Origin: Tanyang Village, Fujian Province

Cultivar: Tanyang Cai Cha (Tanyang heirloom varietal)

Processing: Traditional

Producer: Shi Family

The slightly under-oxidised processing of Traditional Panyong Congou allows for further slow oxidation with age. This tea is now three years old. Made by Shi Liqiang, an Intangible Cultural Heritage Inheritor and 7th generation of the Shi Family. The Shi Family goes back to Shi Guangling, who was one of the first producers of Panyong Congou. A statue of Shi Guangling can be found in Tanyang Village, next to the family's preserved Qing Dynasty tea factory.

Besides gongfu brewing, this tea works well brewed 'Western' style in a large teapot. Most Fu’an locals used to drink tea in a large teapot. Gaiwans and gongfu brewing are relatively recent developments in the region. This tea has an old-fashioned Tanyang Gongfu taste. It also expresses some key characteristics of Tanyang Cai Cha, such as shengjin (resalivation) and lily-of-the-valley fragrance. 

Suggested brewing: Gongfu style with 5g in a 100ml porcelain vessel and short steeps, or 'Western' style with 5g in a large vessel.