Shencha Teapot
An effortless method for brewing tea without compromising the authentic Gongfu style.
Our signature product
Ming Qian Longjing, also known as Pre-Qingming Dragon Well Tea, is one of China's most celebrated green teas, originating from the renowned Xihu (West Lake) region of Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province. The name "Ming Qian" refers to the tea's harvest timing—picked before the Qingming Festival in early April—when the tender buds and leaves are at their absolute peak. This early spring harvest is the most prized of the year, as the cool temperatures and slower growth produce leaves with exceptional concentration of flavor and nutrients before warmer weather diminishes their delicate quality.
Longjing tea has a storied history dating back over a thousand years, with the Xihu region producing the most authentic and sought-after variety. The area's unique microclimate, with its misty hills surrounding West Lake and nutrient-rich soil, creates ideal conditions for cultivating this legendary tea. Authentic Ming Qian Longjing from the Xihu region is protected by geographic indication, ensuring its provenance and quality.
The production of Ming Qian Longjing is a highly skilled craft that has been refined over centuries. After careful hand-picking, the leaves are pan-fired by hand in large woks using a traditional technique that requires years of experience to master. The tea master presses and shapes the leaves against the hot wok surface, creating the tea's distinctive flat, spear-shaped appearance with a smooth, slightly glossy finish. This meticulous hand-processing helps develop the tea's characteristic chestnut-like aroma and ensures its exceptional quality.
Ming Qian Longjing produces a clear, jade-green infusion with a fresh, sweet flavor and delicate vegetal notes. The tea is known for its smooth, mellow taste with subtle nutty undertones and a clean, refreshing finish. Due to its limited harvest window, labor-intensive production, and exceptional quality, Ming Qian Longjing is highly valued and often presented as a prestigious gift. Our tea is sourced directly from certified farmers in the protected Xihu region, guaranteeing its authenticity and superior quality.
