Qi Hong Mao Feng - Qimen Sprouts

(Highest grade of Qi Hong, also known as Keemun)
A tea from the South Chinese province of Anhui, it is grown near the River Yangtse. Translated, the phrase Qi Men means Great Gate and refers to the local name of the district and rather less hospitable town. Qimen tea is said to be served as a welcome for dignitaries.
- Tea of the Year 1999 - The highest grade of fully fermented tea from the province of Anhui.

A select red tea of Mao Feng type, characterised by the use of the end shoots of the tea branches. Qimen produces a full-bodied but complex flavor which is slightly sweet, like semi-sweet chocolate (though it does not contain any!) and slightly astringent.