This refined Keemun black tea comes from the well-known Hong Kong tea producer Ying Kee Tea House. Although Hong Kong is not traditionally known for black (or "red") tea, these teas have become increasingly popular over the years. Keemun is a prime example of this local adoption.
Black tea in Hong Kong reflects the influence of British tea culture, which flourished before the 1997 handover to China. Unsurprisingly, this led to the widespread popularity of milk tea, particularly Hong Kong Nai Cha, a beloved drink found on nearly every street corner. Nai Cha is made from a blend of black teas, including Keemun, which contributes its signature aroma and elegant flavor.
Keemun black tea (Qi Men Hong Cha) is one of China's most celebrated black teas. It originates from the Keemun district in Anhui province and ranks among the world's top three black teas, alongside Darjeeling and Ceylon Uva.
Unlike those two, which are made from large-leaf cultivars and grown in tropical climates, Keemun is produced from the small-leaf Chinese Zhu Ye Zhong cultivar grown in a subtropical zone. This tea is renowned for its smooth, naturally sweet and creamy taste. The unique terroir of the Keemun region offers unmatched conditions for cultivating black tea of extraordinary quality.
