White Monkey

About this tea

White Monkey (Bai Mao Hou) from Fujian Province gets its name from a legend of monkeys trained to pluck tea from cliff-side gardens, though the real story involves the white down covering young leaves resembling white-furred monkeys. This traditional tea, produced in small quantities, represents old-style Chinese green tea craftsmanship before modern market preferences shifted to more famous varieties.

The tea uses traditional hand-plucking of one bud and two leaves, with processing emphasizing gentle handling to preserve the white down. Unlike heavily marketed teas, White Monkey maintains traditional processing methods passed through generations of tea-making families. The white fuzz isn't just decorative - it indicates careful handling and contributes to the tea's distinctive sweetness.

The flavor profile is gently sweet: delicate plum-like fruitiness, natural sweetness with light body, clean, refreshing character, and subtle complexity across infusions. The white down creates a silky mouthfeel. Less assertive than famous Chinese greens, White Monkey offers quiet elegance. Each infusion reveals different subtle notes, rewarding patient attention.

Brewing recommendations: Use 1 teaspoon (3g) per 250ml cup with water at 80°C (175°F), steeping for 2 minutes. Gentle handling preserves the delicate character. White porcelain or glass shows off the fuzzy leaves. Yields 3-4 delicate infusions.

Perfect for afternoon contemplation when seeking something gentle. Pairs beautifully with stone fruits, light cookies, or enjoyed alone. The traditional character appeals to those seeking authentic, non-commercialized Chinese tea. Reasonable pricing makes it accessible for daily drinking while maintaining artisanal quality.