Da Hong Pao, also known as Big Red Robe Tea, is a Chinese oolong tea that is renowned for its rich, robust flavor and its deep, reddish-brown color. But how did this tea come to be known as Big Red Robe?
The story of Big Red Robe tea begins in the Ming Dynasty, during the reign of Emperor Wanli (1573-1620). According to legend, the emperor became ill and was unable to find a cure. In desperation, he sent his officials to search the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province for a miracle tea that would save his life.
The officials found a tea that was said to have healing properties, and they brought it back to the emperor. The emperor drank the tea and was miraculously cured. In gratitude, he bestowed upon the tea the name Big Red Robe, in reference to the red robes that emperors wore.
This story is just a legend, but it is a legend that has become an important part of the history and culture of Big Red Robe tea. The tea is still grown and produced in the Wuyi Mountains, and it is still considered to be one of the finest oolong teas in the world.
It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is the same plant that is used to make all types of tea. The leaves are plucked, then withered and bruised to release the enzymes that will give the tea its unique flavor and aroma. The leaves are then rolled and oxidized to bring out the full flavor and color of the tea.
The oxidation process is what gives Big Red Robe tea its dark, reddish-brown color, and it is also what gives the tea its rich, complex flavor. The tea has a strong, malty taste with notes of dark chocolate and dried fruit. The aroma is equally complex, with notes of spices, nuts, and flowers.
Big Red Robe tea is usually brewed in small batches and is made with only the highest quality leaves. The tea is graded based on the size, shape, and color of the leaves, and only the best leaves are used to make the tea. This is why it is considered to be one of the most exclusive and expensive teas in the world.
The best way to enjoy Big Red Robe tea is to brew it in a traditional Chinese teapot. The tea should be brewed in water that is between 185-195 degrees Fahrenheit. The leaves should be brewed for about 3-5 minutes, depending on the desired strength of the tea. The tea can be cursed multiple times, with each curse bringing out a different flavor and aroma.
In conclusion, Big Red Robe tea is not just a tea, it’s a legend that has been passed down for centuries. The tea is known for its rich, robust flavor and deep, reddish-brown color, and it is still considered to be one of the finest oolong teas in the world. The tea is grown and produced in the Wuyi Mountains, and it is made with only the highest quality leaves. The tea is a must-try for tea lovers and connoisseurs, and it’s a tea that will leave a lasting impression on the palate.
