Da Fo Longjing, or Big Buddha Dragon Well tea, is a respected type of green tea, carefully harvested and processed to preserve its natural qualities. The tea is typically picked in early spring when the buds and young leaves are tender and fresh. The standard for harvesting Da Fo Longjing involves selecting one bud with one or two young leaves, approximately 1.5 centimeters long. Experienced tea pickers carefully hand-select the leaves to meet production standards.

After harvesting, the tea leaves are laid out on bamboo trays to wither for about two hours. This allows excess moisture to evaporate and makes the leaves pliable for frying. The first frying process, known as the “kill-green” stage, is conducted using machines at a high temperature of around 200°C (390°F) for about 3-4 minutes. This step halts oxidation and helps retain the green color and natural aroma of the leaves.

The second frying process takes place at a lower temperature and focuses on shaping the leaves. Machines lightly press and flatten the leaves, beginning to form the recognizable flat and smooth shape associated with Longjing tea. This process also ensures an even texture and appearance.

For premium batches, the final shaping and drying process is often done by hand. Artisans work with small batches of tea in large woks heated to around 60-70°C (140-160°F). Over about 20 minutes, the leaves are gently pressed, smoothed, and flipped by hand to create their characteristic flat, sword-like shape. This stage requires close attention to ensure the tea is evenly heated without over-frying.

After resting briefly, the tea undergoes a final frying step to reduce its moisture content to below 5%. This is essential for long-term storage and maintaining the tea’s quality. The processed leaves are then cooled and sealed in airtight containers to preserve their freshness.

Da Fo Longjing is known for its smooth, flat leaves, light aroma, and a mild, balanced flavor. The production process emphasizes attention to detail and traditional techniques, ensuring that the tea retains its natural characteristics.

High-quality Da Fo Longjing tea leaves are flat, smooth, and evenly shaped, with a vibrant green color and a natural sheen. The tea’s delicate appearance reflects the precision of its crafting process. When brewed, the tea produces a clear, pale yellow-green infusion that emits a refreshing, nutty aroma with subtle floral undertones.

The flavor profile of premium Da Fo Longjing is balanced, offering a smooth and slightly sweet taste with a pleasant vegetal finish. Lower-quality Longjing may have uneven or broken leaves with a dull color, and the brewed tea may appear murky with a bitter or flat taste.

To ensure you’re enjoying authentic Da Fo Longjing, look for its hallmark features: uniform leaf shape, vibrant green color, and a clean, aromatic brew with a sweet aftertaste.