SunMoon Lake black tea is one of Taiwan’s most iconic black teas, harvested from the SunMoon Lake region in Yuchi Township, Nantou County. With its warm, humid climate and rolling terrain, the region provides an ideal environment for tea cultivation. Renowned for its rich aroma and smooth, mellow flavor, SunMoon Lake black tea is celebrated as one of Taiwan’s top ten specialty teas.
Origin and Characteristics
The history of SunMoon Lake black tea dates back to the Japanese colonial period, when the Assamica variety was introduced from India. Through selective breeding, Taiwan Tea No. 8 (Assam) was developed and gradually became a signature cultivar in the SunMoon Lake area. This tea features a unique honeyed aroma and rich fruit notes, with a bright red liquor, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a lingering aftertaste.
With the growth of local tourism and continuous improvements in tea quality, the fame and popularity of SunMoon Lake black tea have grown significantly. In 1999, Taiwan Tea No. 18 (Ruby) was successfully bred. Thanks to its rich flavor and distinctive aroma, it rapidly became the primary tea cultivar in SunMoon Lake just a few years after its release, driving a boom in SunMoon Lake black tea cultivation. Today, Taiwan Tea No. 18 accounts for over half of all SunMoon Lake black tea production. Alongside Taiwan Tea No. 8 and No. 18, newer varieties such as Taiwan native wild mountain tea, Taiwan Tea No. 21, and Taiwan Tea No. 25 have also been introduced, expanding the variety of raw materials available for SunMoon Lake black tea.
Production Process
The production process of SunMoon Lake black tea includes plucking, withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying. First, tea pickers harvest the leaves at a standard of one bud with two or three leaves. After withering, the leaves undergo rolling to break down their cell walls and release the tea’s natural fragrance. Next is the oxidation stage, a crucial step that determines the color and flavor profile of the tea liquor. Finally, the leaves are dried to create finished loose-leaf tea, bringing out its distinctive aroma and flavor.
Brewing Guide
We recommend brewing SunMoon Lake black tea with hot water at 90°C to 95°C, using a ratio of 3g of tea leaves to 150ml of water. Steep for about 3 to 5 minutes, adjusting the brewing time to suit your personal taste. This tea is wonderful enjoyed on its own, or paired with milk or sugar for a different flavor experience.