Young Hyson

Pre-Qingming Green Tea - Early Harvest Excellence

Tea › Green Tea › Young Hyson

Overview

Young Hyson (雨前茶) literally means "before the rains" and refers to tea plucked before the Qingming Festival (April 4-5). This is the earliest harvest of the season, producing the most delicate and prized green teas in China.

The term "Young Hyson" is derived from the Chinese "Yuhua" (雨花), representing the rain-flowered tea. These teas are known for their exceptional freshness, light flavor, and limited availability.

Characteristics

Leaf

  • • Tender, spring buds
  • • Bright green color
  • • Thin, delicate leaves
  • • High bud content

Cup

  • • Pale green liquor
  • • Sweet, fresh flavor
  • • Vegetal notes
  • • Delicate aroma

Harvest & Production

Young Hyson is plucked in late March to early April, before the spring rains. The cold winter months concentrate nutrients in the first spring buds, resulting in exceptional flavor and nutrition. Production is limited due to the narrow harvest window.

Brewing

Use 70-75°C water and steep for 1-2 minutes. The delicate leaves require gentle handling. Can be re-steeped 2-3 times.