Jasmine Huang Shan Ya Grade A Loose Leaf Green Tea

Jasmine Huang Shan Ya Grade A is a beautifully refined loose leaf green tea, made from fine Chinese green leaves that have been lightly steamed to lock in freshness before being gently and repeatedly scented with jasmine blossom. The result is a fragrant, poised cup that balances the clean brightness of a quality Chinese green tea with a soft, natural floral character — and it shows in the cup from the very first steep.

The name Huang Shan Ya refers to the style of leaf associated with Huangshan — Yellow Mountain — in Anhui province, one of China's most celebrated tea-growing regions. The Grade A designation signals a careful selection of leaf, with the steaming process preserving the natural green character while keeping the texture smooth and the finish clean. Jasmine scenting is a traditional Chinese art: fresh jasmine flowers are layered with the tea leaves overnight, allowing the dry leaf to absorb the floral fragrance naturally, then removed. This process may be repeated several times to achieve the right depth of scent.

In the cup, this tea pours a rich lemony-gold liquor with a soft, clean jasmine aroma that rises gently from the glass. The flavour is naturally sweet and lightly floral, with enough body to feel satisfying and enough delicacy to remain refreshing rather than heavy. It is a particularly fine choice for those who find some jasmine teas too perfumed — the Grade A leaf here gives the blend real substance, and the jasmine adds lift rather than dominance.

This is a versatile tea that suits a wide range of occasions: an elegant afternoon cup, a gentle digestif after an evening meal, or a calm, aromatic moment whenever the day calls for something light and refined.

Since 2008, High Teas London has been one of the country's leading independent tea specialists. With over 350 teas and infusions — one of the largest collections in the country — our aim has always been to source teas with genuine character, from classic everyday cups to more considered and distinctive choices such as this one.

Ingredients: Green tea, jasmine scent.

Brewing Note: Jasmine Huang Shan Ya Grade A is best brewed with water that has cooled slightly from the boil — around 80 to 85°C is ideal, as boiling water can dull the delicate floral notes and introduce unwanted bitterness into the green tea base. Use one heaped teaspoon per cup and steep for two to three minutes. If you prefer a lighter, more fragrant cup, err towards the shorter end; for a little more depth and body, allow the full three minutes. This tea will give a second, slightly softer infusion — pour immediately after the first steep to keep the leaves from over-brewing between cups.