Exploring the Legend Behind Da Hong Pao, The World's Most Expensive Tea.

Da Hong Pao, a legendary tea with a history spanning over 2200 years, is a globally renowned treasure. Its journey to international recognition occurred between 1661 and 1722 when it found its way to Western Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia. This tea's allure extends beyond its age and geographic reach, as it is a testament to the rare and exquisite art of harvesting.

In the tranquil spring, the meticulous process of hand-picking three to four leaves per bud begins, preserving the artistry of Da Hong Pao. However, the true marvel lies in the fact that only four original mother trees remain, each standing proudly for over a millennium. To safeguard their legacy, these revered trees are permitted to be harvested for just three days each year, rendering the Da Hong Pao tea one of the most expensive in the world, with a staggering price tag exceeding one million dollars.

The name "Da Hong Pao," meaning "The Great Crimson Cloke," is steeped in an ancient legend that adds mystique to this tea. It narrates the story of a destitute scholar who, on his journey to the imperial examination in the capital, fell gravely ill while passing through the enchanting Wuyi Mountain. A compassionate old abbot from the Tianxin Temple brewed a healing tea for the ailing scholar, leading to his miraculous recovery. This miraculous event not only ensured his success in the examination but also earned him the esteemed privilege of marrying the emperor's daughter.

Check out our peak edition black/Oolong tea box

In a subsequent visit to Wuyi Mountain, the scholar, accompanied by the kind abbot, reached the Nine Dragons' Nest, a place where three magnificent tea trees graced a steep cliff. These trees, with their lush leaves and vibrant shoots glistening in a purple-red radiance, were the source of the curative tea, carefully harvested by the monks. This tea, post-processing, was believed to possess incredible healing properties.

Upon learning of this remarkable discovery, the scholar requested a box of this special tea to present as a tribute to the emperor. The offering of this tea to the ailing empress resulted in her miraculous recovery, earning her imperial recognition. In gratitude, the emperor bestowed a red robe upon the scholar. When this robe was draped over the tea trees, it caused the leaves to shimmer with a red hue in the sunlight, giving rise to the name "Da Hong Pao," or "The Great Crimson Cloke." This tradition of annually harvesting this esteemed tribute tea has endured through centuries, keeping the legend and the legacy of Da Hong Pao alive.