Meitan Cuiya, originally known as Meijiang Tea or Meijiang Cuipian, is a type of green tea named after its origin along the Meijiang River. Created in 1943, Meitan Cuiya is not a historically ancient tea, but thanks to its exceptional flavor, it has become a widely renowned and beloved pan-fired green tea in China.
Meitan Cuiya is produced in Meitan County, Guizhou. With its mild climate and mineral-rich soil, it is an ideal environment for tea plants. Tea cultivation here dates back to ancient times, with historical records noting it as a tribute tea as early as the Song dynasty. Today, Meitan is a renowned tea-producing region with widespread tea plantations and exceptional tea-making standards. The tea varietal used here is Tai Cha (moss tea). Tai Cha harvested around Qingming with one bud and one leaf produces the highest quality Meitan Cuipian. Premium Meitan Cuiya features a flat and smooth appearance, a vibrant emerald green color, an enchanting aroma with notes of chestnut and flowers, and a refreshing, pleasant taste when brewed.
▲▼ Its pan-firing technique draws from Longjing tea production methods, featuring key processes such as fixation (shaqing), cooling, secondary pan-firing, cooling, and final air-drying. Top-grade Meitan Cuiya has a flat, neat, and straight appearance, releasing a refreshing floral aroma when brewed, rivaling Longjing tea. Premium Meitan Cuiya is highly popular, with top grades priced at over 1,000 RMB per 500g.
