Wild Yunnan Purple Bud

This Yunnan Wild Purple Bud, known in Chinese as Yesheng Zi Ya Bao (野生紫芽苞), is a distinctive tea derived from the purple buds of wild tea trees found in the high-altitude regions of Yunnan Province, China. These tea trees, often exceeding 500 years in age, thrive at elevations between 1,500 and 3,600 meters, where they are surrounded in persistent fog and abundant moisture. 

The tea leaves are unopened purple buds, enveloped in fine white hairs, giving them a unique and beautiful look. The purple buds result from a natural mutation in certain tea trees, leading to higher concentrations of anthocyanins, which contribute to their distinctive color. Historically, purple bud teas were esteemed for their unique qualities. In “The Classic of Tea” (茶经), Lu Yu noted, “紫者上，绿者次” (“Purple is superior, green is second”), highlighting the high regard for purple bud teas.

This tea, harvested from ancient, wild tea trees without human intervention or pesticides, have naturally adapted to their environment over centuries, allowing them to develop unique characteristics and flavor influenced by their natural surroundings.

This Yunnan Wild Purple Bud has a fresh aroma of melon, cucumbers, and a bouquet of wildflowers. The pale yellowish green tea has a delicate and naturally sweet flavor with mellow notes of orchids and powdered sugar. The smooth and thick mouthfeel coats the tongue and leaves an almost juicy aftertaste that makes your mouth water. The floral and almost herbal aroma lingers in your nose after drinking, making you reach for another sip.

This beautiful tea is best brewed Gongfu Style using a 90ml gaiwan and 204°F (96°C) water. Measure out 5 grams of tea leaves and place it in the gaiwan. After giving it a quick rinse, steep the tea for roughly 10 seconds. The tea will be light in color but full of flavor. You can steep this tea up to 8-9 times, giving you plenty of infusions to enjoy. Even when over-steeped, this high-quality tea will not turn bitter or dry. 

Due to the limited harvesting window and the rarity of the wild purple bud-bearing trees, Wild Purple Bud White Tea is produced in small quantities, making it a prized and sought-after tea among connoisseurs. Try this fresh and fragrant tea yourself for a unique tea experience. 

Alternate Name: Yesheng Zi Ya Bao (野生紫芽苞)

Origin: Yunnan, China

Notes: Fresh melon, cucumbers, wild flowers