With 5,000 years of Chinese civilization as a treasure trove, characters, calligraphy and painting, and tea stand as timeless carriers of classics. They embody Eastern wisdom, precipitating unique charms over the ages. In the world of Wuyi Rock Tea, aged teas crafted with high-fire roasting are just like polished classics – only seasoned tea lovers can truly appreciate their profound flavors. Today, Tongxin She Teahouse is honored to recommend two high-fire Wuyi Rock Teas from Kuanlu – Yao Wu Kong and De Ba Jie – exclusively for tea enthusiasts who prefer bold flavors and traditional craftsmanship. Newcomers are advised to refrain; only connoisseurs will understand.
These two teas represent the pinnacle of traditional craftsmanship, with the mark of full-fire roasting evident at first glance. The dry tea features a predominantly deep ebony hue, with tight, uniform strips that showcase the true characteristics of the cultivar. Upon opening the package, one immediately recognizes the perfect roasting – the almost black dry leaves are the most distinctive sign of high-fire rock tea. A touch more heat would lead to scorching, and this precise control of roasting temperature is exactly what seasoned tea lovers seek in "masterful fire craftsmanship."
When brewed, the tea liquor presents a translucent soy sauce color. Observed from different lights and angles, it is free of any impurities, pure and clear beyond admiration. Lifting the gaiwan lid, a blend of sweet sour date cake aroma and warm roasted notes rises gently. The subtle cinnamon, floral, and medicinal scents in the dry tea become restrained and understated after the intense roasting, no longer flamboyant. Only after swallowing, between breaths, can one faintly perceive the hidden layers of aroma. Sipping the tea, there is no bitterness or astringency – the liquor has a moderate body yet is exceptionally smooth, gliding down the throat slowly with a lingering aftertaste. The sweetness in the later infusions becomes increasingly distinct, offering a comfortable and soothing drinking experience. In moments, a warm sensation spreads across the back, bringing overall relaxation. The brewed leaves are bright and glossy, a testament to the superior raw materials and craftsmanship; its steeping durability is also impressive, retaining lingering flavors after 8 infusions, with each brew revealing unique nuances.
The charm of Yao Wu Kong and De Ba Jie extends beyond taste, integrating tea with art and classic literature. The packaging of both teas is personally painted by the renowned contemporary Chinese painter Lin Haizhong – Professor of the Chinese Painting Department at the China Academy of Art and doctoral supervisor, whose masterpieces include Grand View of Qiantang River and Snow Scene at Guoqing Temple, Tiantai. His art reinterprets the classic charm of Journey to the West, and as Nan Huaijin once noted, this literary work contains profound insights into spiritual cultivation. These two teas, in turn, encapsulate Eastern aesthetics and life philosophy within their liquor.
Hu Jingde, a contemporary researcher of calligraphy and painting culture and tea enthusiast, once interpreted the teas: "De Ba Jie (Embrace Restraint) signifies 'knowing when to stop' – when tasting tea, one should distinguish between quality and inferiority, act appropriately, not greedily overindulge, and not follow blindly. Yao Wu Kong means 'attaining profound understanding' – not obsessing over the superficial aroma or form of the tea, but perceiving the essence of nature's way from the tangible liquor." Each tea is available in both Shuixian and Rougui cultivars, with raw materials carefully selected from core rock tea producing areas. Each offers a unique flavor profile. Gathering with a few close friends for comparative tasting, one can explore the true meaning of "rock bone and floral fragrance" through tea conversations, uncovering deeper delights.
The allure of high-fire rock tea lies in the perfect harmony between fire and tea, a mellow richness crafted by time and craftsmanship. It is not suited for newcomers seeking fresh, bright aromas, but it precisely caters to the taste preferences of seasoned tea lovers – the restrained aroma, smooth liquor texture, long-lasting sweetness, and crystal-clear purity can only be truly appreciated by those with years of tea-tasting experience.
If you are a seasoned tea lover who admires traditional craftsmanship and bold flavors, eager to experience the exquisite roasting art and depth of Eastern culture through tea, then Yao Wu Kong and De Ba Jie are undoubtedly worth trying. If you are new to Wuyi Rock Tea, it is advisable to start with light or medium-fire teas. Once your palate has grasped the basic charms of rock tea, you can then return to explore the profound allure of these high-fire classics.
Tea embodies craftsmanship; tea contains great Dao. At Tongxin She Teahouse, we take tea as a medium to share storytelling, warm好茶. We look forward to savoring this timeless, fire-forged flavor with discerning tea lovers like you.