Top Chinese Black Tea Brands and Factories in China
hinese black tea, known locally as “hong cha” (red tea), is one of the most famous types of tea in China and is appreciated worldwide for its rich flavors and aromas. Below is an overview of the most notable types, their origins, and key features. China is renowned for its diverse and high-quality black teas, known locally as “red tea” (hong cha). Here are some of the top black tea brands and factories in China, celebrated for their exceptional products:
Top Black Tea Brands
- Zhengshan Xiaozhong (Lapsang Souchong)
- Location: Wuyi Mountains, Fujian Province
- Description: Known for its distinctive smoky flavor, Zhengshan Xiaozhong is one of the earliest black teas. Traditional processing involves drying the leaves over pine wood fires.
- Dianhong (Yunnan Red)
- Location: Yunnan Province
- Description: Famous for its robust, malty flavor with a hint of sweetness, Dianhong is often characterized by golden tips and a rich red-brown liquor.
- Qimen Hongcha (Keemun)
- Location: Qimen County, Anhui Province
- Description: Keemun is known for its delicate and complex flavor with floral and fruity notes. It’s a key ingredient in many English Breakfast blends.
- Jin Jun Mei
- Location: Wuyi Mountains, Fujian Province
- Description: A premium variety of Lapsang Souchong, Jin Jun Mei is highly prized for its sweet, fruity taste and smooth texture.
- Liu Bao Cha
- Location: Guangxi Province
- Description: This tea has a rich, earthy flavor and is often aged. It is known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion.
Notable Black Tea Factories
- China Tea Company (中茶)
- Location: Beijing
- Description: One of China’s oldest and largest tea companies, offering a wide range of black teas including Keemun and Dianhong.
- Fujian Tea Import & Export Co., Ltd.
- Location: Fuzhou, Fujian Province
- Description: Specializes in the production and export of Lapsang Souchong and Jin Jun Mei. The company is known for maintaining traditional processing methods.
- Yunnan Xiaguan Tuocha (Group) Co., Ltd.
- Location: Dali, Yunnan Province
- Description: Renowned for its Dianhong black tea, this factory combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to produce high-quality teas.
- Anhui Tea Import & Export Co., Ltd.
- Location: Hefei, Anhui Province
- Description: A leading exporter of Keemun black tea, known for its consistent quality and adherence to traditional processing techniques.
- Zheng Shan Tang Tea Factory
- Location: Tongmu Village, Wuyi Mountains, Fujian Province
- Description: Famous for producing high-quality Zhengshan Xiaozhong (Lapsang Souchong) using traditional smoke-drying methods.
These brands and factories are celebrated not only for their quality and taste but also for their commitment to traditional tea-making techniques that have been passed down through generations.
