LONGJING
DRAGON WELL
GREEN TEA
★ PESTICIDE-FREE GARDENING
Tien Mu Shan, Lin'An, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
Longjing "Dragon Well" is one of China’s most famous green teas, cherished for its flat, hand-pressed leaves and refreshing, nutty flavor. Grown primarily around West Lake in Hangzhou, it offers a bright, smooth infusion with subtle chestnut and vegetal notes, embodying centuries of refined tea tradition. MORE
AROMA
Floral, nutty, creamy
TASTE
Salty, nutty
CULTIVAR: Jiu Keng Qun Ti Zong
HARVEST: Early spring (Pre-Qingming), 2025
GREEN TEA
★ PESTICIDE-FREE GARDENING
Tien Mu Shan, Lin'An, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
Longjing "Dragon Well" is one of China’s most famous green teas, cherished for its flat, hand-pressed leaves and refreshing, nutty flavor. Grown primarily around West Lake in Hangzhou, it offers a bright, smooth infusion with subtle chestnut and vegetal notes, embodying centuries of refined tea tradition. MORE
AROMA
Floral, nutty, creamy
TASTE
Salty, nutty
CULTIVAR: Jiu Keng Qun Ti Zong
HARVEST: Early spring (Pre-Qingming), 2025
GREEN TEA is one of the world's most studied and revered beverages for its cultural significance and impressive range of health benefits. Green tea is rich in bioactive compounds and supports both physical and cognitive well-being when consumed regularly and mindfully. Due to the tea leaves' special cultivars, climate, and quality, green tea is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and microelements. The highest-quality green teas are made from spring young buds and leaves, traditionally processed to prevent oxidation and keep the tea leaf in its original chemical composition. Research over the past few decades has discovered that green tea reduces the risk of heart disease, cleans the circulatory system, strengthens blood vessels, reduces blood pressure, lowers blood sugar, prevents the development of cancer cells, and relieves nervous tension.
Learn more about the BIOCHEMISTRY OF A TEA LEAF
SEED-GROWN TEA PLANT
This tea refers to a Qunzi Zhong, a "seed-grown tea plant". Unlike cloned or asexually propagated cultivars, which are created by cuttings or grafting from a single "mother" plant, Qunzi Zhong tea trees are grown from seeds. This results in a genetically diverse population of plants. Each seed-grown tea tree is unique, with slightly different characteristics. This genetic variety helps improve the resilience of the tea garden, making it more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stress. Seed-grown trees usually develop stronger and deeper roots than cloned plants, allowing them to draw nutrients and minerals from deeper soil layers, often giving the tea a more complex and rich flavor profile. Qunzi Zhong represents the traditional way of tea cultivation. Because of the genetic diversity, teas made from Qunzi Zhong plants tend to offer more layered and nuanced flavors, reflecting a richer expression of the local terroir (soil, climate, and environment).
PESTICIDE-FREE GARDENING
Pesticide-free gardening refers to a cultivation method in which no synthetic chemical pesticides are used at any stage of plant growth. Instead, this approach relies on biodiversity, ecological balance, and cultural practices to manage pests and diseases. Unlike conventional farming, which often depends on chemical intervention to control infestations, pesticide-free gardening emphasizes prevention through healthy soil, companion planting, and natural predators. This method fosters a more resilient and adaptive garden ecosystem. Without chemical inputs, beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and native bees thrive, contributing to pollination and pest control. Untouched by harsh agents, the soil remains alive with microbial activity, supporting deeper root systems and more vigorous plant development. Over time, this results in produce with purer, more expressive flavors, reflecting the health of the environment and the grower's intention.
Learn more about Pesticide-Free Gardening
EASTERN (PIN CHA) ★
Temperature: 75-85 °C
Amount: 3-5 grams per 120 ml of water
Steeping: 20-40 sec x 5+
WESTERN (INFUSION) ★
Temperature: 75-85 °C
Amount: 2-3 grams per 250 ml of water
Steeping: 1-2 min x 3
Learn more about TEA BREWING METHODS
Tea absorbs surrounding aromas and moisture. This type of tea oxidizes when it comes into contact with oxygen and loses its properties, including taste and aroma. Store it in a dry and cool place in airtight packaging. Avoid direct exposure to the sun and high temperatures.
BEST BEFORE: 2 years since production date!
BEST BEFORE: 2 years since production date!
Learn more ABOUT TEA STORAGE
ABOUT
The history of Longjing tea dates back over a thousand years, with some sources tracing its origins to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). However, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), Longjing began to gain prominence, partly due to its association with the imperial court. It was revered for its quality, and tea expert Lu Yu even mentioned it in his influential work, "The Classic of Tea," during the Tang Dynasty. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Longjing gained further recognition, primarily when it was bestowed the title of "The Best Green Tea in China" by Emperor Qianlong in the 18th century, who personally sampled the tea and praised its exceptional qualities. Since then, Longjing has been a symbol of Hangzhou and a representation of the art of tea drinking in China.
Longjing tea leaves are flat and elongated, resembling a spear. This distinct shape comes from the traditional pan-firing process, which involves hand-crafting the leaves to maintain their shape. Longjing tea is celebrated for its delicate and refreshing flavor profile. It typically has a sweet, nutty aroma with hints of chestnut and a smooth, slightly vegetal taste. The infusion produces a bright green color, indicative of its freshness. The best Longjing tea is harvested in early spring, typically around late March to early April. The first flush of the season, known as "pre-Qingming" tea, is considered the most desirable due to its delicate flavor and aroma.
ORIGIN
Longjing tea is primarily grown in the West Lake area of Hangzhou, in Zhejiang province. This region's unique geography, characterized by its mild climate, rich soil, and abundant rainfall, provides an ideal environment for cultivating high-quality tea. The tea is primarily harvested from several areas, including Longjing Village, the heart of Longjing tea production. The mountainous terrain surrounding West Lake also contributes to the tea's flavor profile, as the elevation affects the growing conditions. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, which can also enhance the flavor of the tea by promoting a balanced ecosystem.
Tianmu Mountain, meaning “Eyes on Heaven,” gets its name from the twin pools atop its East and West peaks. With altitudes reaching over 1,500 meters and a unique microclimate fostered by dense forests, the area provides ideal conditions for growing high-quality tea. This Longjing is grown at 800 meters using the Jiu Keng Qun Ti Zong cultivar, known for its orchid-like aroma and roasted bean notes, an outcome of skilled pan-frying techniques passed down through generations. What sets Tien Mu Shan apart is the quality of its tea and the region’s commitment to organic farming. Locals have held organic certifications since 2005, emphasizing biodiversity, natural soil management, and chemical-free cultivation. In an era where authenticity and sustainability are often compromised, Tien Mu Shan stands tall as a symbol of tradition, purity, and environmental respect in the world of tea.
ORGANOLEPTIC
Uniform, flat, spear-shaped leaves with a jade-green hue and slight yellow tint. Glossy surface with visible bud sets; hand-pressed with care, indicating skilled pan-firing. Dry leaves have a delicate and fresh aroma with prominent notes of toasted chestnut, underpinned by light floral hints reminiscent of wild orchids. Subtle grassy undertones suggest early spring plucking. Pale jade to light yellow-green infusion with brilliant clarity. Rinsed tea leaves have a clean and vegetal aroma with warm nutty tones. Evolving bouquet reveals nuances of fresh bamboo shoots and faint gardenia. The taste is elegant and well-balanced. Initial umami-rich savoriness transitions to a mellow sweetness. Fresh green notes support prominent roasted bean and chestnut flavors. Mid-palate reveals delicate marine and mineral elements, with a lingering honeysuckle finish. Supple, silky, and smooth. Lightly viscous with a coating effect on the tongue. Refreshing with excellent salivation and returning sweetness. Long and persistent aftertaste. Clean, sweet, and slightly cooling. A subtle astringency enhances clarity without detracting from overall harmony. A refined and nuanced Longjing showcasing terroir and craftsmanship. Exemplary for its cultivar expression and traditional processing. Ideal for mindful sipping and multiple infusions. The empty cup exudes a sweet aroma with refreshing undertones of watermelon and cucumber. Overall, the tea has a calming and harmonizing effect.
The history of Longjing tea dates back over a thousand years, with some sources tracing its origins to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). However, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), Longjing began to gain prominence, partly due to its association with the imperial court. It was revered for its quality, and tea expert Lu Yu even mentioned it in his influential work, "The Classic of Tea," during the Tang Dynasty. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Longjing gained further recognition, primarily when it was bestowed the title of "The Best Green Tea in China" by Emperor Qianlong in the 18th century, who personally sampled the tea and praised its exceptional qualities. Since then, Longjing has been a symbol of Hangzhou and a representation of the art of tea drinking in China.
Longjing tea leaves are flat and elongated, resembling a spear. This distinct shape comes from the traditional pan-firing process, which involves hand-crafting the leaves to maintain their shape. Longjing tea is celebrated for its delicate and refreshing flavor profile. It typically has a sweet, nutty aroma with hints of chestnut and a smooth, slightly vegetal taste. The infusion produces a bright green color, indicative of its freshness. The best Longjing tea is harvested in early spring, typically around late March to early April. The first flush of the season, known as "pre-Qingming" tea, is considered the most desirable due to its delicate flavor and aroma.
ORIGIN
Longjing tea is primarily grown in the West Lake area of Hangzhou, in Zhejiang province. This region's unique geography, characterized by its mild climate, rich soil, and abundant rainfall, provides an ideal environment for cultivating high-quality tea. The tea is primarily harvested from several areas, including Longjing Village, the heart of Longjing tea production. The mountainous terrain surrounding West Lake also contributes to the tea's flavor profile, as the elevation affects the growing conditions. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, which can also enhance the flavor of the tea by promoting a balanced ecosystem.
Tianmu Mountain, meaning “Eyes on Heaven,” gets its name from the twin pools atop its East and West peaks. With altitudes reaching over 1,500 meters and a unique microclimate fostered by dense forests, the area provides ideal conditions for growing high-quality tea. This Longjing is grown at 800 meters using the Jiu Keng Qun Ti Zong cultivar, known for its orchid-like aroma and roasted bean notes, an outcome of skilled pan-frying techniques passed down through generations. What sets Tien Mu Shan apart is the quality of its tea and the region’s commitment to organic farming. Locals have held organic certifications since 2005, emphasizing biodiversity, natural soil management, and chemical-free cultivation. In an era where authenticity and sustainability are often compromised, Tien Mu Shan stands tall as a symbol of tradition, purity, and environmental respect in the world of tea.
ORGANOLEPTIC
Uniform, flat, spear-shaped leaves with a jade-green hue and slight yellow tint. Glossy surface with visible bud sets; hand-pressed with care, indicating skilled pan-firing. Dry leaves have a delicate and fresh aroma with prominent notes of toasted chestnut, underpinned by light floral hints reminiscent of wild orchids. Subtle grassy undertones suggest early spring plucking. Pale jade to light yellow-green infusion with brilliant clarity. Rinsed tea leaves have a clean and vegetal aroma with warm nutty tones. Evolving bouquet reveals nuances of fresh bamboo shoots and faint gardenia. The taste is elegant and well-balanced. Initial umami-rich savoriness transitions to a mellow sweetness. Fresh green notes support prominent roasted bean and chestnut flavors. Mid-palate reveals delicate marine and mineral elements, with a lingering honeysuckle finish. Supple, silky, and smooth. Lightly viscous with a coating effect on the tongue. Refreshing with excellent salivation and returning sweetness. Long and persistent aftertaste. Clean, sweet, and slightly cooling. A subtle astringency enhances clarity without detracting from overall harmony. A refined and nuanced Longjing showcasing terroir and craftsmanship. Exemplary for its cultivar expression and traditional processing. Ideal for mindful sipping and multiple infusions. The empty cup exudes a sweet aroma with refreshing undertones of watermelon and cucumber. Overall, the tea has a calming and harmonizing effect.
CHINA CLASSICS
Try one of the best Chinese classics from AN SHIM TEA COLLECTION