Fujian Silver Hair Tea 福建 银毫

Fujian Silver Hair Tea (福建银毫)

Fujian Silver Hair Tea (福建银毫, Fújiàn Yínháo) is a high-quality white or black tea from Fujian Province, China, named for its silver-tipped tea buds covered in fine, silvery-white hairs. This term is often used for:

1. White Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen, 白毫银针) – A famous white tea with delicate silver buds.
2. Golden or Silver-Tipped Black Tea – A high-grade black tea with silvery buds (similar to Jin Jun Mei but with lighter oxidation).

This tea is valued for its freshness, smoothness, and elegant aroma, making it a favorite among tea connoisseurs.

Characteristics of Fujian Silver Hair Tea

• Appearance: Silvery-white buds or golden-black leaves with silver tips.
• Aroma:
  • White Tea: Sweet, floral, and fresh.
  • Black Tea: Malty, honey-like, with a light fruity note.
• Tea Liquor:
  • White Tea: Pale golden or light yellow.
  • Black Tea: Deep amber or golden brown.
• Taste:
  • White Tea: Delicate, sweet, slightly grassy.
  • Black Tea: Smooth, mellow, with hints of honey and fruit.
• Mouthfeel: Light, refreshing, and lingering.

Brewing Instructions

For White Silver Hair Tea (Bai Hao Yin Zhen)

1. Teaware: Glass cup, gaiwan, or porcelain teapot.
2. Tea Amount: 4-5g (1-2 teaspoons).
3. Water Temperature: 75-85°C (167-185°F) (avoid boiling water to prevent bitterness).
4. Steeping Times:
   • 1st infusion: 1-2 minutes (gentle and sweet).
   • 2nd-3rd infusions: 2-3 minutes (full-bodied aroma).
   • 4th+ infusions: Increase by 30 seconds each time.

For Black Silver Hair Tea (Silver-Tipped Black Tea)

1. Teaware: Yixing teapot or ceramic mug.
2. Tea Amount: 3-5g (1 teaspoon).
3. Water Temperature: 85-95°C (185-203°F).
4. Steeping Times:
   • 1st infusion: 1.5-2 minutes (smooth and sweet).
   • 2nd-3rd infusions: 2-3 minutes (stronger honey-like notes).
   • 4th infusion: 3-4 minutes (mellow and soft).

Serving Tips

• Best Enjoyed Plain: No milk or sugar to fully appreciate its delicate sweetness.
• Cold Brew: White tea version makes a refreshing cold brew (steep in cold water for 6-8 hours).
• Pairing: Complements light foods like fruits, nuts, or pastries.