Té Verde del Dragón del Lago Oeste (Long Jing)

One of the best Long Jing which I tried in Eruope.
Still fresh in September.

Fresh, nutty and sweet. Great value for money for everyday longjing fans.

Fresh and fragrant from the first impact, the dried leaves express all the classic nature of this tea, with its flat shape and emerald green color with yellowish streaks. Infusing these teas is always a challenge because, unless you're a novice, you have so many points of comparison with those you've already drunk in the past. This one in particular manages to defy any provocation, even that of a Western-style infusion at 70°C for 2 minutes, which allows all its refined characteristics to emerge. The wet leaves add brilliance to the original colors and hint to the nose at the aromas and flavors the liqueur will unleash upon tasting. The very light and brilliant green color, almost transparent, frames a sweet, intense, and smooth flavor, with fresh, floral, and herbaceous notes, especially chestnut but also alfalfa, combined with a slightly toasted aftertaste. These characteristics make this Longjing a tea that cannot fail to please, even if you are not a lover of green teas.

This entry-level Long Jing offers an astonishing price-performance ratio. At this price point, you often get Long Jing that’s barely drinkable. I’ve tried quite a few Long Jings, ranging from basic ones from Zhejiang (i.e., outside the core production area) to top-tier Long Jing from Shi Feng.

Although it uses the Qunti cultivar, its processing is more reminiscent of a #43 Long Jing — that is, somewhat lighter and less complex. It presents a nice balance of green-floral and nutty notes, with the emphasis more on the former. If you prefer heavily roasted Long Jing, this one might not be for you.

A great daily drinker at a really affordable price.

Excellent tea with that familiar warm flavour of roasted beans and chestnuts.