Lu’an Guapian (六安瓜片), also known as Lu’an Melon Seed Tea or sometimes simply Lu’an Leaf, is a renowned Chinese green tea originating from Lu’an City in Anhui Province, China. It is celebrated as one of China’s Ten Famous Teas (中国十大名茶).
Unique Characteristics:
- Appearance: The tea is distinct for its flat, elliptical leaves resembling melon seeds, without any buds or stems. This unique appearance sets it apart from other green teas. The dry leaves are a vibrant emerald green.
- Aroma & Taste: Lu’an Guapian offers a fresh, captivating aroma, often described as orchid-like or reminiscent of roasted chestnuts. The flavor is mellow, rich, and sweet with a lingering aftertaste.
- Liquor: The brewed tea produces a clear, bright green liquor.
History and Origin:
With a history tracing back to the Ming Dynasty, Lu’an Guapian has a prestigious past, even serving as a tribute tea for the imperial court. Its primary growing region is in the Dabie Mountains surrounding Lu’an City, with the area around Qitou Mountain (齐头山) being particularly prized for its high-quality tea.
Processing:
The production of Lu’an Guapian involves several intricate steps:
- Harvesting: Only mature leaves are carefully hand-picked, ensuring no buds or stems are included.
- Withering: The freshly picked leaves are spread out to wither and lose some moisture.
- Fixation (杀青): The leaves are pan-fired at high temperatures to halt oxidation.
- Multiple Firings (拉火): A distinctive process using charcoal fires, involving several rounds of baking and cooling (“毛火,” “小火,” and “老火”) to further dry the leaves and develop its characteristic flavor profile.
Brewing Instructions:
- Water Temperature: Use water around 80-85°C (176-185°F). Avoid boiling water.
- Tea Amount: Use approximately 3-5 grams of tea per 150ml of water.
- Steeping Time: Steep for 2-3 minutes for the first infusion, increasing the time slightly for subsequent infusions.
- Teaware: A glass or porcelain teapot or gaiwan is recommended to appreciate the tea leaves unfurling.
Health Benefits:
Like many green teas, Lu’an Guapian is rich in antioxidants and is associated with various potential health benefits, including:
- Boosting the immune system
- Promoting cardiovascular health
- Aiding digestion
Key Differences from Other Green Teas:
- No Buds or Stems: The complete absence of buds and stems is a significant differentiator.
- Distinctive Leaf Shape: The flat, melon seed-like leaves are unique.
- Special Firing Process: The multiple-firing method over charcoal contributes significantly to its flavor.
This concise introduction should provide a solid overview of Lu’an Guapian for English-speaking audiences.
