Shan Lin Xi Jade Green 2023 No.539

Shan Lin Xi – 杉林溪, meaning "Pine Forest Stream.

This is one of our favorites, which we’ve been continuously ordering from our Taiwanese producer friends since 2016. Due to the ever-changing weather each year, the tea’s flavor profile shifts slightly every time. The Shan Lin Xi Jade Green was harvested a few days later than the previous Shan Lin Xi, and this small difference in the harvest primarily reflects in the tea’s greenish character, which harmoniously complements the buttery, biscuit-like notes.

Shan Lin Xi, located at an altitude of 1400 meters above sea level, is one of Taiwan's highest tea-growing regions. Due to the cooler mountain air, the leaves grow slower, remain smaller, and softer. As a result, similar to Gyokuro, it has a much higher amino acid and caffeine content than typical teas.

The tea’s steamed aroma resembles mineral, with an aniseed-chard scent, and a hint of sweet licorice. Its green character is complemented by a fuller, chocolate chip-like richness. The first infusion, at 90°C for 20 seconds, reveals sweet fruity, tropical aromas, alongside subtle eggy, pastry-like, and sponge cake notes. The taste is dominated by chamomile and creaminess, with a pleasantly oily texture.

The second infusion, also at 90°C for 30 seconds, brings the tea’s green notes to the forefront, alongside a biscuit base, with flavors of chard and honey emerging. The third infusion is truly mineral, with a wet stone aroma, and the taste evokes the world of herbs. In the fourth infusion, the mineral notes continue to dominate, complemented by tannic, honeyed, and floral characteristics.

Quantity: 5-6 grams per 150ml gaiwan.
Water temperature: 90-95ºC. From fresh spring water or filtered water.
Brewing time: 20-30…seconds
Infusions: 6-8