Black Mudan – Smooth & Layered Chinese Black Tea
Black Mudan, or “Black Peony,” is a Chinese black tea with a smooth, well-rounded character and a beautifully layered flavor profile. Complex but approachable, it offers enough depth for experienced tea drinkers while remaining easy to enjoy for those exploring Chinese black teas.
The cup opens with notes of stone fruit, including apricot and peach, followed by richer tones of browned butter, maple, and toasted grain. Subtle hints of hay and dried grass add a rustic quality, while soft floral undertones bring a gentle sweetness to the finish.
With low astringency and a rounded mouthfeel, Black Mudan is smooth, balanced, and satisfying. Enjoy it plain to appreciate its layered character, or with a small splash of milk for a softer cup.
Flavor Profile
Smooth and well-rounded with notes of apricot, peach, browned butter, maple, hay, and toasted grain. Low in astringency with a soft, lingering finish.
Ingredients
Hand-plucked Chinese Black Tea
Brewing Instructions
8 oz Cup
- Scoop a heaping teaspoon of tea into infuser.
- Heat water to 200° F (just before boiling).
- Pour 8 oz. of water over tea leaves.
- Steep tea for 3-5 minutes (depending on taste preference).
- Remove infuser and enjoy tea.
Potful
Simply add to your infuser one heaping teaspoon of leaf per 8 oz. of water and place it in your pot, then add the appropriate amount of 200° F water and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the infuser and enjoy. Also delicious with a touch of milk and sugar.
Brewing Iced Tea
Our opinion is that a cooled concentrate works best, as regular-strength brew tends to become watery as the ice melts. So, use the above leaf quantities, but half the water, allow it to cool, then pour it over ice and enjoy. The brew will dilute down to proper strength as the ice melts.
