Longjing (Dragon Well)
China's Most Famous Green Tea
Overview
Longjing (龙井), also known as Dragon Well tea, is perhaps China's most celebrated green tea. Grown in the misty hills around Hangzhou's West Lake, this tea has been prized for over 1,000 years and was traditionally served to Chinese emperors.
Longjing is renowned for its distinctive flat, sword-shaped leaves and sweet, chestnut-like flavor. In 1959, it was listed as one of China's Top Ten Famous Teas, cementing its reputation as a national treasure.
Characteristics
Leaf
- • Flat, sword-shaped leaves
- • Bright green color
- • Some silver tips
- • Hand-shaped
Cup
- • Pale green liquor
- • Sweet chestnut flavor
- • Vegetal, orchid aroma
- • Smooth, mellow finish
Production Process
1. Hand Plucking
Only the bud and two leaves are plucked by hand, typically in early spring.
2. Withering
Brief withering to reduce surface moisture before processing.
3. Pan-frying (The Critical Step)
Leaves are fried in hot iron woks at 200°C, continuously shaped by hand into flat swords. This step develops Longjing's signature flavor.
4. Final Drying
Multiple drying sessions ensure proper moisture content and develop final flavor.
Grades
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 特级 (Supreme) | Only buds, hand-processed, highest quality |
| 一级 (Grade 1) | Bud and one leaf, excellent quality |
| 二级 (Grade 2) | Bud and two leaves, good quality |
| 三级 (Grade 3) | Standard quality, more affordable |
Brewing Guide
Parameters
- • Temperature: 75-80°C (165-175°F)
- • Amount: 3g per 150ml
- • Steep Time: 1-2 minutes
- • Reinfusions: 3-4 times
Tips
- • Use glass teaware to watch leaves unfurl
- • Don't rush - first infusion is subtle
- • Second infusion often brings out chestnut notes
- • Best consumed within 6 months of production