Tongshun Tai | Bailin Gongfu Black Tea

Tongshuntai Bailin Gongfu Black Tea originates from the century-old Bailin tea house established in 1885, reviving the traditional craftsmanship of Bailin Gongfu, one of the three renowned Fujian Red Gongfu teas. Founded on Bailin's historic street during the late Qing Dynasty, Tongshuntai was a leading exporter, shipping tea across the ocean and witnessing the golden age of Fujian's maritime tea trade. Today, we have restored these traditional methods to recreate the authentic, classic flavor of genuine Bailin Gongfu.

Ingredients

Crafted from premium Fujian Fuding Big White and Daho tea leaves harvested at high-altitude local gardens. We select only the tender one-bud-one-leaf or one-bud-two-leaf shoots, renowned for their abundant plump buds and dense downy hairs. Grown in the native soils of Bailin's mountainous terrain, these leaves carry the authentic essence of high-mountain terroir.

Process Features

Follow the complete traditional process of Bailin Gongfu: combined light and heavy withering and rolling, precise temperature-controlled fermentation, and double charcoal firing using ancient methods.

Moderate withering locks in freshness; gentle to firm rolling shapes the strips while preserving golden tips; controlled fermentation temperature and humidity awaken natural floral, fruity, and golden-hair aromas; charcoal-fired re-drying is done in stages—first dried to 80%, then slow-baked over low heat until fully dry. No high-heat scorching ensures a high fragrance without dryness, faithfully restoring the craftsmanship of our traditional tea brand.

Sensory Attributes

Dry tea: fine, tightly curled strips with uniform shape, dark lustrous color, and abundant golden tips.

Color: Bright red with a clear, amber-like hue; clean and translucent.

Aroma: Dominated by fresh, downy notes with intertwined honey and delicate floral-fruity scents; no burnt or roasted aroma.

Taste: Clear, fresh, sweet, and mellow with a smooth, gentle mouthfeel. Distinct sweet aftertaste; no bitterness. Warm and pleasant to drink.

Leaf base: Uniform, bright red with yellow tones, fresh and elastic.

Drinking occasions

Perfect for Gaiwan brewing and suitable for steeping in a glass; ideal for traditional tasting as well as serving as the base for modern innovations like Tongshun Tai cold-brew black tea and black tea ice cream. Experienced tea lovers will appreciate its classic Min Hong character, while newcomers find it easy to enjoy—equally suited for daily drinking or entertaining guests.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from light and odors.