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Dragonwell (also known as Long Jing or Lung Ching) is one of China’s most famous – and most imitated – teas. The leaves are plucked by hand in early spring. Following a short withering step, the leaves undergo multiple rounds of pan-firing at different temperatures, first to stop oxidation and then to impart the deep roasted, nutty flavors associated with this style of tea. The final steps are done by hand and require highly-skilled tea makers to produce the characteristic flat bookmark-shape.
The name of this tea comes from the village where it was first produced, which in turn was given its name in 250 AD by a Taoist priest. According to the legend, the priest told the villagers that they could end the drought that plagued them by praying to a dragon that lived in the local well. The villagers followed the priests advice, and the rains soon followed.
Brewing Guidelines
Brew green tea with water below boiling temperature to minimize harshness or bitterness.
Heat 8 oz of filtered water to a boil and cool to 185 °F (85 °C) by pouring into a cool glass and letting it sit for a few minutes. Alternatively, use a kettle with a temperature selection option to heat only to 185 °F.
Pour water over 2 g (about 1 Tablespoon) tea and steep 3 – 4 minutes. Adjust time and amount of tea depending on desired strength.
If serving over ice, use more tea when brewing to avoid diluting the tea too much as it cools.
Always use filtered or spring water to fully enjoy the taste of your tea. For best results, brew using a teapot with a removable filter that allows the leaves to unfurl completely. Avoid tea balls/eggs or other infusers that compress the tea leaves.
The tea leaves can be re-steeped multiple times, increasing the steeping time slightly for each infusion. Notice the different flavors that emerge with each steeping.
Cold Brew
Dragon Well makes a great cold brew tea. Cold infusion enhances the tea’s natural fruit flavors and results in a lower-caffeine tea. To make it, cover 8 g of tea with 4 – 5 cups of cool water and leave in the refrigerator overnight. If you forget about your tea, don’t worry – it won’t get bitter with longer cold extraction times.
Storing Tea
Keep sealed in a cool, dry place away from strong odors, moisture, and light. We do not recommend storing tea in clear containers (such as glass jars) as light can affect the shelf life of tea.
Green tea should be consumed within 1 - 2 years of purchase for optimal flavor.
