Honey Black 2023-2024

The Garden

Hidden high up on Jade Mountain, in the tree covered mountains of central Taiwan, is the organic Huang family garden. This little garden produces just 1.5T of tea each year; a production so small it would probably fit in your kitchen. The garden is organic and full of life.

Taiwan is most famous for high mountain oolong teas, with  floral notes and creamy textures. These oolong teas are usually picked in the Spring and Winter. Less well known are Taiwanese black teas, which are some of the most delicious in the world. In the summer season, little insects called leafhoppers start to attack the tea plants. The leaves naturally defend themselves by producing a scent that tastes of honey, which the leafhoppers don’t like, but we love. This honey flavour is captured in the exquisite flavour profile of this tea.

2024

Batch A3240608 (30kg)

I think the 2024 is one of the best years I’ve seen for the Honey Black. The leaves are from the famous Qin Xin varietal, which is considered to be Taiwan’s highest quality varietal. When you begin to infuse the tea, the air smells of raisins and fruitcake. On the palate, the tea has a smooth and rich texture; exceptionally smooth for a black tea. The tasting notes are raisins, tea-soaked cake, honey, flower petals, and a cognac character.

2023

Batch A3230710

The 2023 batch is also from Qin Xin varietal plans. It opens with dried fruit and honey notes, almost like raisins and honey cake. Then come the floral notes, finished with a hint of almond at the end. The texture is silky and smooth. The Honey Black pairs perfectly with light desserts and cakes.

Infuse 3g per 150ml (teacup) at 90C for 5 mins. The Honey Black is very flexible and tastes excellent at various temperatures and times.

Storage and Ageing

Store this tea in a cool dry place. It will taste at its best for up to 5 years, perhaps longer, developing in flavour over time. The tea picks up a richer dried fruit and wood note over the years.