Black Gunpowder Loose Leaf Tea - China Black Pearls

Our Black Gunpowder loose leaf tea China Black Pearls is a striking hand-rolled Fujian black tea with tightly formed dark pearls that slowly unfurl in the pot. Rich, smooth and full-bodied, it brews to a deep, aromatic cup with chocolatey warmth, subtle smoky depth and a long, satisfying finish — a distinctive black tea best enjoyed slowly and without distraction.

Black Gunpowder loose leaf tea China Black Pearls from Fujian

China Black Pearls is one of the most visually impressive loose leaf black teas in the collection. Each fully oxidised leaf is carefully rolled into a compact, glossy pearl, sealing in aroma and flavour until the moment hot water begins to draw it open.

Also known as Black Gunpowder, this style takes the traditional pellet-rolling method more commonly seen in green tea and applies it to rich black tea from Fujian, creating a darker, fuller and more dramatic cup.

Deep, Smooth and Chocolatey with Gentle Smoky Warmth

In the cup, this China black pearls loose leaf tea develops slowly into a dark, richly aromatic infusion with genuine body. The flavour is smooth and rounded, carrying warm chocolate-like depth and a faint smoky note that adds complexity without overpowering the tea.

It is bold and satisfying, but not coarse — a tea with presence, balance and a finish that lingers long after the final sip.

Hand-Rolled Pearls That Unfurl Beautifully

The tightly rolled pearls are part of the pleasure of brewing this tea. As they steep, they gradually open and release the character of the leaf, making it especially rewarding in a glass teapot or infuser where the transformation can be seen.

The rolled form also helps preserve freshness and gives the tea a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from more familiar black tea styles.

At a Glance

• Tea type: Loose leaf black tea
• Origin: Fujian, China
• Style: Hand-rolled black pearls / Black Gunpowder
• Liquor: Deep dark infusion
• Flavour: Smooth, chocolatey, gently smoky and full-bodied
• Best enjoyed: Without milk, though a small splash can be added

A Tea for Slow, Attentive Brewing

China Black Pearls is ideal for tea drinkers who enjoy a more immersive brewing experience. It is a tea to watch, smell and savour, rather than rush.

Taken plain, its rich chocolatey character and subtle smoky warmth come through most clearly. It also has enough structure to tolerate a small amount of milk if preferred.

How to Brew China Black Pearls

Use freshly boiled water at 100°C and add one heaped teaspoon per cup. Steep for 4 to 5 minutes.

A 4-minute infusion gives a rich, smooth cup with balanced depth. A 5-minute brew produces a fuller, more intense result with greater body.

The pearls can be infused a second time, producing a lighter and softer cup while still retaining plenty of character.

Ingredients

Black tea.

About High Teas London

High Teas London has been sourcing distinctive loose leaf teas and infusions since 2008. With over 350 different teas in our collection, we are proud to offer teas that combine visual beauty, craftsmanship and real flavour, including unusual black teas such as China Black Pearls.