Chun Mee Tea

Discover the delicate charm of Chun Mee Tea, a classic Chinese green tea renowned for its distinctive flavour and elegant appearance. Named after its “precious eyebrow” shape, featuring tightly rolled leaves that unfurl to reveal a light golden liquor with a subtle, slightly sweet aroma.

Each cup offers a refreshing, brisk taste with gentle notes of plum and a hint of smokiness, making it a favourite among green tea enthusiasts.

What is Chun Tea?

Originating primarily from the Jiangxi and Zhejiang provinces of China, Chun Mee Tea is made from young, tender tea leaves that are harvested in early spring. After picking, the leaves are pan-fFired to halt oxidation, then rolled and dried to preserve their fresh, grassy character.

The resulting tea is known for its clear, pale yellow-green liquor and a flavour profile that is both brisk and mellow. This results in a gentle sweetness with subtle notes of plum and a faint, pleasant smokiness.

The name “Chun Mee” translates to “precious eyebrow,” a reference to the tea leaves’ distinctive, slightly curved shape that resembles the delicate arch of an eyebrow. This shape is achieved through careful hand-rolling during the production process, a technique that has been perfected over generations.

History of Chun Mee Green Tea

Deeply rooted in the rich tea culture of China, with origins dating back several centuries. Believed to have originated during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), a period when tea cultivation and processing techniques flourished across China.

The tea was first produced in the Jiangxi province, particularly in the areas surrounding the Yangtze River, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for growing high-quality tea leaves. Over time, production expanded to neighbouring provinces such as Zhejiang and Anhui, further enhancing the tea’s reputation and availability.

During the 19th century, it became one of the first Chinese green teas to be exported to Europe and North Africa. Its distinctive flavour and long shelf life made it especially popular among tea merchants and consumers abroad. In Morocco, for example, it became the base for traditional Moroccan Mint Tea, a cultural staple that remains popular to this day.

How to Make Chun Mee Tea

Brewing Chun Mee Green Tea is a simple yet rewarding process that allows you to enjoy its delicate flavours and refreshing aroma. Follow these steps for the perfect cup:

1. Measure the Tea Use 1 teaspoon (about 2 grams) of Chun Mee Tea leaves per cup (200–250ml) of water.
2. Heat the Water Bring fresh, filtered water to just below boiling, ideally between 75°C and 80°C (167°F–176°F). Avoid using boiling water, as it can make the tea taste bitter.
3. Rinse the Leaves (Optional) For a cleaner taste, you may briefly rinse the tea leaves by pouring a small amount of hot water over them, then discarding the water.
4. Steep the Tea Place the tea leaves in a teapot or infuser. Pour the hot water over the leaves and let them steep for 2–3 minutes. Adjust the steeping time to your taste preference—shorter for a lighter flavour, longer for a stronger brew.
5. Serve and Enjoy Strain the tea into your cup. It can be enjoyed plain or with a touch of honey or lemon, though many prefer it on its own to appreciate its natural character.
6. Re-steep if Desired The leaves can be re-steeped 1–2 more times. Increase the steeping time slightly with each infusion.

By following these steps, you’ll experience the smooth, slightly tangy taste and subtle sweetness that make Chun Mee Tea a favourite among green tea lovers.

Detailed Tasting Notes for Chun Mee Tea

Offering a refined and distinctive tasting experience, cherished by green tea enthusiasts for its balance and complexity. Here’s a closer look at its flavour profile:

• Aroma: The dry leaves release a fresh, grassy fragrance with subtle hints of fruit and a gentle smokiness. Once brewed, the aroma becomes more pronounced, revealing delicate notes of plum and a faint floral undertone.
• Liquor: The infusion produces a clear, pale yellow-green cup, bright and inviting.
• Initial Taste: The first sip is brisk and lively, with a clean, slightly tangy edge. There’s an immediate freshness, reminiscent of spring greens, that awakens the palate.
• Mid-Palate: As the tea develops, a gentle sweetness emerges, balanced by a mild astringency. Subtle notes of plum and apricot can be detected, along with a soft, nutty undertone and a whisper of smokiness.
• Finish: The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving a pleasant, slightly sweet aftertaste with a refreshing, almost citrus-like brightness.
• Mouthfeel: Chun Mee Tea has a light to medium body, with a silky texture that coats the mouth without being heavy or overpowering.
• Overall Impression: This tea is celebrated for its harmonious blend of briskness, sweetness, and gentle astringency. Its nuanced flavours make it enjoyable both as a daily drink and as a special treat for those seeking a classic Chinese green tea experience.

Caffeine Content

Containing a moderate amount of caffeine, typical of most green teas. On average, an 8-ounce (240ml) cup of Chun Mee Tea provides approximately 20–30 milligrams of caffeine. This amount can vary depending on factors such as the quantity of tea leaves used, steeping time, and water temperature.

Chun Mee’s caffeine content is lower than that of black tea and significantly less than coffee, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a gentle energy boost without the jitters. Its moderate caffeine level can help improve alertness and focus, while still allowing for a calm and relaxing tea experience.

Chun Mee Green Tea Benefits

Chun Mee Tea benefits offer a variety of health benefits, making it a popular choice among green tea enthusiasts. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Rich in Antioxidants Packed with polyphenols and catechins, powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from free radical damage and support overall cellular health.
• Supports Heart Health Regular consumption of green tea, has been linked to improved cardiovascular health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and support healthy blood pressure.
• Aids Digestion The gentle astringency can help stimulate digestion and soothe the stomach, making it an excellent choice after meals.
• Boosts Metabolism The natural compounds in Chun Mee Green Tea may help enhance metabolic rate, supporting weight management and increased energy expenditure.
• Promotes Mental Alertness With its moderate caffeine content, it provides a gentle boost in alertness and concentration without the overstimulation associated with stronger caffeinated drinks.
• Supports Immune Function The antioxidants and vitamins found in this tea can help strengthen the immune system and promote overall wellness.
• Hydrating and Refreshing As a low-calorie, hydrating beverage, it is a healthy alternative to sugary drinks, helping to keep you refreshed throughout the day.

Enjoying Chun Mee Tea as part of a balanced lifestyle can contribute to both physical and mental well-being, while offering a delicious and soothing tea experience.