Shou Mei 2017 white tea

Shou Mei (寿眉) – in English, "long life eyebrow" – is a type of white tea made from the most mature leaves and buds, featuring a richer, more earthy character. This tea, from the 2017 harvest, has been aged in cake form ever since, gradually developing a sweeter, fuller flavour profile.

Aged white teas, especially Shou Mei, continue to oxidize naturally under controlled heat and humidity. This not only shapes the flavour but also results in a digestive, warming drink for both body and soul, considered beneficial by traditional Chinese medicine.

This 2017 white tea has already reached the stage described by the Chinese saying:

"First year tea, third year medicine, seventh year treasure."

Flavour Profile

• Aroma: dried fruit, floral honey, subtle maltiness

• Taste: sweet, soft texture, dried plum, nutty, slightly woody character

• Finish: warm, velvety, honeyed aftertaste, long-lasting smoothness

Recommended Preparation

Asian Style (gaiwan or yixing pot)

To explore the layers, with multiple infusions

• Tea quantity: 5–6 g per 100–120 ml water

• Water temperature: 95–100°C

• Infusion times: starting from 20 seconds, gradually increasing

• Multiple infusions: enjoyable up to 8–10 times

Tip: Break off a small piece from the cake, then gently separate the leaves so they can easily unfurl during infusion.

Western Style (larger pot or infuser mug)

For a soft, continuous experience

• Tea quantity: 3 g per 250 ml water

• Water temperature: 90–95°C

• Steeping time: 3–4 minutes

• Multiple infusions: 2–3 times

Cold brew

Highlights the aged characteristics in a refreshing way

• Tea quantity: 6–7 g per 750 ml cold, filtered water

• Steeping time: 10–12 hours in the refrigerator

• Flavour profile: sweet, clean, slightly fruity refreshing drink