Dian Hong

Dian Hong – Black Tea

Origin: China

Infusion Temperature: 90° Celsius

Infusion Time: 3-4 minutes

Serving Size: 3 g/200 ml

Dian Hong is a truly distinctive black tea originating from the Yunnan province of China-an area historically known for its green teas and Pu’er teas until the mid-20th century. The birth of Dian Hong tea marks a fascinating chapter in tea history, born out of resilience and innovation during a turbulent era.

During the Second Sino-Japanese War, many Chinese tea masters found themselves without work as plantations and factories closed across northern and central China. Seeking new opportunities, many relocated southward where conditions were more stable. Among them was Feng Shaoqiu, a renowned tea master from Qimen in Anhui, an area famous for its black teas. Upon settling in Yunnan, Feng collaborated with local farmers and tea masters, experimenting with indigenous tea cultivars to create a black tea that would honor the region’s unique terroir.

After years of trial and refinement, Feng succeeded in producing the first batch of Dian Hong in 1939. Since then, Dian Hong has become one of the most celebrated black teas, admired worldwide for its exceptional qualities.

Dian Hong stands out for its clear, bright liquor and a flavor profile that is both delicate and floral, yet impactful. Unlike many black teas, where processing dominates the final character, Dian Hong’s quality primarily depends on the raw material and harvest timing. The leaves used are the same broad-leaf varieties that produce Pu’er tea, meaning the age of the tea plants and the unique terroir of Yunnan profoundly influence its taste and aroma.

The name itself is meaningful: “Dian” is the indigenous term for Yunnan, while “Hong” means red-reflecting the Eastern naming convention for black teas as “red teas.” This nomenclature pays homage to the tea’s vivid reddish infused color and its cultural heritage.

The Dian Hong tea we present is sourced from a small village in Yunnan and was carefully harvested in March 2025. This early spring harvest guarantees the highest quality, with leaves selected for their pristine condition and exceptional flavor potential.

Enjoy the harmonious blend of floral sweetness, gentle maltiness, and a smooth finish that characterizes this exquisite black tea. Perfect for those who appreciate both tradition and a unique sensory experience, Dian Hong invites you to explore a rich history steeped in craftsmanship and terroir.

Discover the elegance and history of Dian Hong Black Tea, a remarkable treasure from Yunnan, now available for connoisseurs seeking premium black teas with a story.