Keemun
Anhui, China
Wine-like and smooth, with notes of cocoa and orchid. The black tea for people who think they don't like black tea.
The Story
Keemun (Qimen) revolutionized Chinese black tea when it was created in 1875. A failed civil servant learned tea processing in Fujian and brought the techniques home to Anhui. Keemun became China's most famous black tea, earning its place in traditional English Breakfast blends and winning admirers worldwide for its unique, wine-like character.
Flavor Notes
Perfect For
- Evening drinking
- Those who find most blacks too harsh
- Wine lovers
- After dinner
- Contemplation
Pairs Well With
How to Brew
Our recommended approach for the best cup
Water Temperature
195-205°F
(95°C)
Amount
1 teaspoon per 8oz
Steep Time
3-5 minutes
Resteeps
2-3 steeps
Recommended Vessel
Porcelain or Yixing
Brewing Tips
Keemun is more forgiving than many Chinese blacks. It's beautiful gongfu-style (short steeps, many cups) or Western-style (single long steep). Try it both ways. The orchid notes emerge as it cools.