Taiping Houkui Monkey Tea Spring

Tai Ping Hou Kui (太平猴魁) is definitely the top of Chinese green tea that is grown in the mountainous region of Houkeng in Anhui Province, China. It is named after the Tai Ping (Peace) Lake and the local monkey species, Hou Kui (Monkey King), which are said to roam the mountains.

Tai Ping Hou Kui is known for its distinctive appearance, with long, flat tea leaves that are folded in half lengthwise and feature a prominent white stripe down the center. This unique shape is achieved through a meticulous hand-processing technique, which involves pressing the leaves between hot iron plates.

When brewed, Tai Ping Hou Kui produces a bright, golden-green infusion with a delicate aroma and a smooth, mellow taste. It is prized for its complex flavor profile, which combines floral, nutty, and vegetal notes with a subtle sweetness and a refreshing finish.

Due to its rare and exquisite qualities, Tai Ping Hou Kui is considered one of the finest teas in China and is often served to honored guests or given as a gift.