Yunnan Golden Needles

Quick Facts

• Origin: Fengqing, Yunnan, China

• Flavor: Malt · Dark Chocolate · Wild Honey

• Caffeine: High

Brewing Ritual

2 tsp Tea | 12 oz Water | 195°F–200°F | 3–5 Mins

These high-grade buds are remarkably resilient. We encourage you to re-steep these leaves at least 3 times; you’ll find the honeyed sweetness deepens and the texture becomes even more syrupy with each infusion.

The Experience

Crafted exclusively from the tender, downy spring buds of Yunnan's ancient tea trees, these "Golden Needles" undergo a meticulous oxidation process that transforms them into shimmering shards of orange-gold. Unlike lower-grade black teas that can carry a sharp astringency, this Jin Zhen is remarkably smooth and syrupy. Each steep reveals layers of roasted sweet potato and spicy malt, leaving a warm, lingering sweetness on the palate that feels like a cozy afternoon in the highlands.

Terroir & Heritage

Sourced from the high-altitude gardens of Fengqing—the historical birthplace of Dian Hong tea—these needles grow in red, mineral-rich soil under a near-constant veil of mountain mist. The extreme elevation slows the growth of the buds, allowing them to concentrate the natural sugars and amino acids that give this tea its signature "velvet" mouthfeel. This is a "pure bud" tea, meaning every single piece was hand-plucked at the peak of spring.

Pairing Suggestions

The malty, chocolate-forward profile of Golden Needle makes it a perfect companion for breakfast pastries, dark chocolate desserts, or even savory dishes like smoked meats. Because of its natural sweetness, it is one of the few black teas that requires absolutely no milk or sugar to be enjoyed fully.