Yunnan Sun-Dried Black Tea (Shai Hong)

Classic Method: 3g per 300ml | 95°C | 3-4 min. Perfect for a cozy mug or a large teapot. This tea is remarkably forgiving – even with a long steep, it remains smooth and fruity without the bitterness typical of industrial black teas.

Gongfu Style: 5g per 150ml | 95°C | 15s, 20s, 30s. A quick 5-second rinse is recommended to “wake up” the sun-dried leaves. This method reveals a deep, syrupy body with layers of forest honey and malt. It easily lasts for 7-8 infusions.

Cold Brew: 8g per 1L cold water. Place in the fridge for 6-8 hours. The result is a refreshing, naturally sweet iced tea with notes of dried plum and a clean, crisp finish. No sugar needed!

1. What makes “Sun-Dried” tea different from regular Black tea?

Most black teas are dried in high-heat ovens to stop oxidation quickly. Shai Hong is dried naturally under the open sun. This slow, gentle process preserves natural enzymes and prevents the tea from becoming bitter or astringent. It results in a much smoother, “softer” taste.

2. Does this tea expire?

Actually, it gets better! Because it isn’t “fired” in an oven, Shai Hong is a “living” tea, similar to Pu-erh. If stored in a dry, dark place, it will continue to develop deeper honey and chocolate notes over 3–5 years.

3. Is it high in caffeine?

It has a moderate caffeine level. Since it comes from Yunnan large-leaf tea trees, it provides a steady, calm energy without the “jitters” often associated with coffee or lower-quality black teas.

4. Should I add milk or sugar?

While you can add milk, we recommend trying it plain first. The sun-drying process brings out a natural nectar-like sweetness and fruitiness that is usually lost in industrial teas. Most of our customers find they don’t need any sweeteners at all.

5. Is this tea organic?

Our Sun-Dried Black tea comes from high-altitude gardens in Lincang, where traditional farming methods are used. The drying process is 100% natural, using only the power of the Yunnan sun.

6. Why are there golden tips in the dry leaves?

Those golden flecks are young tea buds. During oxidation and sun-drying, the fine “down” on the buds turns a beautiful gold color. The more golden tips you see, the higher the quality and the sweeter the taste.