After Rain Youliang Mountain Yellow Tea
雨后幽良山黄茶
Leo discovered this tea during his April 2026 sourcing trip to Hunan. It comes from Youliang Mountain, 幽良山, in Pingjiang County, Hunan, from a high mountain tea garden at about 800 meters elevation.
“After Rain” means the tea leaves were picked after rainfall. Compared with the earliest spring harvests, after-rain tea is usually more affordable because the leaves grow more quickly with the added moisture. While it may not carry the same price as the very first spring picking. For yellow tea, which is often rare and expensive, this makes After Rain Youliang Mountain Yellow Tea an excellent value.
Youliang Mountain, 幽良山, is located in Pingjiang, Hunan. The area is known for its high mountain tea gardens, misty environment, and clean mountain air. The name 幽良 gives a feeling of quiet depth and natural goodness, which fits the personality of this tea beautifully.
Yellow tea is one of China’s rarest tea categories. It is made in a similar way to green tea, but with one important extra step called men huang, or “sealing yellow.” After the leaves are heated to stop oxidation, they are gently wrapped or covered while still warm. This slow resting process softens the grassy sharpness often found in green tea and creates a smoother, sweeter, more mellow flavor. The result is a tea that keeps its freshness while gaining a warmer and rounder character.
This tea is grown without pesticides and no fertilizer, and also wild-farmed, with a mellow body, clean finish, and light honey notes. It is very forgiving to brew and does not become bitter easily, even with hotter water. Smooth, affordable, and easy to drink, this is a wonderful everyday yellow tea.
Brewing Instructions
Grandpa Style
Use about 2g of tea leaves in a large mug or glass. Add hot water around 195°F, or slightly hotter if you prefer a stronger cup. Drink directly from the cup and refill with hot water as the flavor becomes lighter.
Glass Teapot
Use about 4g of tea in a small glass teapot. Brew with water around 195°F. Steep for about 1–2 minutes for the first infusion, then adjust depending on your taste. This method is great for enjoying the soft golden liquor and the gentle movement of the leaves.
Gaiwan
Use about 4g of tea in a gaiwan. Brew with 195°F water, or slightly hotter for more body. Start with 15–25 seconds for the first infusion after rinse, then gradually increase the steeping time for later rounds. This method highlights the tea’s light honey notes, smooth texture, and refreshing mountain character.
