Lu'an Guapian is a distinguished Chinese green tea from Anhui Province, celebrated for its unique use of mature leaves only, which are shaped into flat, oval "melon seed" forms and brewed to yield a mellow, sweet, and refreshing infusion with a clear emerald-green liquor.
Originating in Lu'an County, Anhui Province, China, Lu'an Guapian traces its roots back to the Qing Dynasty, where it earned recognition in imperial records. This tea is not the product of a specific breeder or cultivar cross but rather a regional tradition that applies specialized processing techniques to local Camellia sinensis var. sinensis plants.
Classified as a green tea, Lu'an Guapian belongs to the broader family of Camellia sinensis teas, specifically derived from the var. sinensis botanical variety. It stands out among green teas due to its exclusive use of mature leaves, distinguishing it from many others that include buds or stems.
The tea leaves of Lu'an Guapian are medium to large, oval-shaped, and dark green with a glossy surface after processing. They are carefully plucked from the second and third leaves of the tea shoot, excluding buds and stems, and shaped by hand into flat, distinctive "melon seed" forms that visually set this tea apart.
Lu'an Guapian is prized for its function as a loose-leaf infusion tea. The leaves undergo pan-firing with multiple hand-fired rounds to lock in flavor and shape, producing a smooth, mellow brew that refreshes the palate. It is commonly enjoyed plain to highlight its natural sweetness and floral aroma.
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Buy ShirtHighly esteemed in Chinese tea culture, Lu'an Guapian is often presented as a premium gift and holds a place among China's celebrated "Famous Teas." Its unique leaf shape and mellow flavor have made it a symbol of Anhui's rich tea heritage, occasionally referenced in classical literature and regional traditions.
Lu'an Guapian offers a mellow and sweet flavor profile characterized by a smooth, refreshing taste and a lingering floral aroma. Its infusion is clear and emerald green, delivering a delicate balance of natural sweetness and subtle vegetal notes without bitterness.
The processing of Lu'an Guapian involves carefully plucking only the second and third mature leaves, excluding buds and stems. These leaves undergo pan-firing with multiple rounds of hand-firing to halt oxidation and develop flavor. The leaves are then shaped into flat, oval "melon seed" forms before final drying. This meticulous method preserves freshness and creates the tea's signature appearance.
Lu'an Guapian is traditionally consumed as a loose-leaf infusion, often brewed plain to appreciate its natural sweetness and aroma. It holds cultural importance in Anhui and broader Chinese tea ceremonies, frequently gifted as a symbol of respect and hospitality. Its inclusion among China's "Famous Teas" underscores its ceremonial and social value.
As a green tea, Lu'an Guapian is reputed to offer health benefits typical of unoxidized teas, including antioxidants that support overall wellness. Its mellow nature makes it gentle on the stomach, and it is often enjoyed for its refreshing qualities and potential to aid digestion and promote alertness.
While Lu'an Guapian is primarily associated with Lu'an County in Anhui Province, regional variants exist within Anhui that may differ slightly in leaf size or processing nuances. However, the core characteristics—mature leaves, melon seed shape, and mellow flavor—remain consistent across these local styles.
