Buddha’s Hand Oolong, 2012.
Origin
Yongchun–Dehua Mountains, Fujian, China
Altitude: approximately 800 m
Cultivar: Hongya Fo Shou (Red Bud Buddha’s Hand)
Harvest: 2012
Story
Buddha’s Hand is crafted from the rare Hongya Fo Shou cultivar, a large-leaf tea variety named after the distinctive shape of the Buddha’s Hand citron (Citrus medica) and its historical connection to Buddhist monasteries in Fujian.
Grown in the misty mountains between Yongchun and Dehua, the tea is produced using traditional oolong craftsmanship. After sun-withering, the leaves undergo multiple rounds of careful shaking to develop the cultivar’s celebrated Fo Shou Yun—its unmistakable floral-fruity fragrance. The tea is then pan-fired, rolled and slowly charcoal-roasted, allowing its character to deepen over time.
Harvested in 2012 and carefully aged, this tea has developed remarkable complexity while preserving the vibrant energy of its mountain origin.
In the Cup
The liquor shines with a clear orange-gold hue, opening with an expressive bouquet of Buddha’s Hand citron, ripe pear and late autumn blossoms.
Rich and full-bodied, the tea unfolds into layers of honeyed fruit, gentle roasted sweetness, warm wood and lingering florals. Its powerful first infusions gradually soften into an elegant, meditative sweetness that remains long after the final sip.
Tasting Notes
- Buddha’s Hand citron
- Ripe pear
- Autumn flowers
- Honey
- Warm roasted wood
- Lingering mineral sweetness
Experience
A tea that rewards stillness.
Its evolving infusions invite slow attention, revealing new layers with each steep. Warming, grounding and quietly expansive, Buddha’s Hand is especially suited to moments of reflection, deep conversation or solitary listening.
Tea & Vinyl Pairing
Kraak & Smaak — “Man of Constant Sorrow”
Mood
Deep Contemplation · Mindfulness