Silver needle white tea

Silver Needle Tea, also named Silver Tip White Tea, is the most prized of all white teas and is grown in the Fujian Province of China. This highest quality of white tea is called Bai Hao Yin Zhen (White Hair Silver Needles) and is produced from large, unopened sun-dried tea buds, covered with white downy hair and carefully crafted into slender needles.

As exceptional tea, Silver Needle Tea was reserved for the Chinese imperial family until just a few decades ago, when it became available to the public. The most tender white downy tea buds are harvested only in the few days of early spring, using the centuries old techniques of Imperial Gathering. This dedication to prefection is evident in the cup, where the buds open up to form a wonderful light aroma of nuts, distinct from all other white teas. The unique flavour of Silver Needle Tea is sweet, round and richly vegetative.

Silver Needle White Tea is proven to be low in caffeine and especially potent. It has three times as many antioxidant polyphenols as green or black tea and has been shown to be far more effective in neutralising free radicals. It proves to have the effects of anti-oxidation, anti-radiation, anti-cancer and lowering lipid. A rare and healthful treasure indeed.

Preparation:
Silver Needle white tea may be prepared in a teapot or in individual cups. Use about 2 tsp. per cup of hot but not boiling water [80-90°C (176-194°F)]. Infuse for 2 to 3 minutes. The leaves may be resteeped 1 to 3 times.