Authentic Jin Jun Mei | Pit-Grown Black Tea from Tongmuguan, Wuyi

A smooth, complex cup with the delicate character of spring buds.

Jin Jun Mei is a delicate black tea made from early spring buds. Its complex aroma and layered taste deserve careful brewing.

1. Gaiwan Method (Traditional Chinese Style – Best for Tasting)

Best for: Tea lovers who enjoy appreciating aroma, multiple infusions, and full control over brewing.

📍 You’ll Need:

• A 100–120 ml gaiwan
• Tea pitcher (fairness cup), filter, small cups
• Scale or teaspoon
• Kettle with temperature control

☕ Brewing Steps:

1. Warm the gaiwan with hot water, then discard the water.
2. Add 3 grams of Jin Jun Mei (roughly 1 teaspoon).
3. Optional rinse: Pour hot water (85–90°C / 185–194°F), steep for 3 seconds, and discard the first infusion.
4. First brew: Pour water (85–90°C), steep for 8–10 seconds, then pour into a pitcher.
5. Subsequent infusions:

You can typically enjoy 5–6 infusions with good quality Jin Jun Mei.

2. Teapot Method (Practical and Suitable for Daily Enjoyment)

Best for: Casual tea drinkers or those serving tea for a group.

📍 You’ll Need:

• A small clay or porcelain teapot (200–300 ml)
• Kettle, cups

☕ Brewing Steps:

1. Preheat the teapot with hot water, then pour it out.
2. Add 4–5 grams of tea (about 2 teaspoons).
3. Use 85–90°C (185–194°F) water.
4. Steeping time:

This method gives a more rounded, mellow taste and works well for daily tea sessions.

3. Western-Style Brewing (Simple and Convenient)

Best for: Beginners or those in a hurry; great for mug or infuser use.

📍 You’ll Need:

• A mug or teapot with infuser
• Kettle, spoon

☕ Brewing Steps:

1. Add 2–3 grams of tea per 250 ml (8 oz) of water
2. Pour 85°C–90°C (185–194°F) hot water over the leaves
3. Steep for 2–3 minutes, then remove the leaves or infuser
4. Adjust time based on personal taste — longer steeping = stronger brew

This method is simple and still brings out the tea’s natural sweetness and floral notes.

🌼 Tips for All Methods:

• Use fresh, filtered water for best flavor
• Avoid boiling water — too hot will flatten the aroma
• Observe the tea liquor: Jin Jun Mei should be bright golden-red
• Good tea leaves can be re-steeped multiple times without bitterness

How to Brew Jin Jun Mei

Despite being a black tea, Jin Jun Mei’s delicate buds require gentle handling:

• 
  Water Temperature: 85–90°C (185–194°F)
• 
  Teaware: Gaiwan, small teapot, or glass cup
• 
  Tea-to-Water Ratio: 3g per 150ml
• 
  Steeping Time: Start with 10–15 seconds; increase with each infusion
• 
  Infusions: 5–6 brews with full flavor retention

Note: Avoid boiling water to preserve aroma and prevent bitterness.