Formosa Gunpowder

Discover the fascinating story behind Gunpowder Green Tea, a tea that not only captivates with its flavor but also holds a legendary name. As the tale goes, the moniker "Gunpowder" was bestowed upon this tea by a young English clerk who was struck by the resemblance of the tightly rolled green balls to gunpowder. This unique visual characteristic has become synonymous with the tea's exceptional quality and long shelf life, making it a favored choice among tea enthusiasts.

Gunpowder tea originates from the lush province of Zhejiang in China and also finds its home in Taiwan. While both regions produce this beloved tea, it is widely acknowledged that Taiwan is renowned for its superior quality Gunpowder tea. Interestingly, Taiwan's Gunpowder tea experienced a significant enhancement in quality after 1949, further solidifying its reputation as a premium tea.

Intriguingly, Gunpowder tea held a prominent position in America's tea imports before the 1900s, accounting for around 60% of the total. Today, its prevalence has diminished, representing less than 1% of the tea market. However, the legacy of Gunpowder tea continues to enchant tea lovers with its unique allure.

In Taiwan, the tea bushes flourish throughout the year, yielding five flushes from April to December. The prime leaves are meticulously selected, harvested from late May to mid-August. The cultivation of tea in Taiwan dates back around 300 years, with the initial tea bushes brought from Fujian Province. The northern region of Taiwan, near Chi-lung, remains a hub for tea growing and production, ensuring the continuation of this rich tradition.

When Gunpowder tea is steeped, the tiny pellets come alive, emitting a delightful jingle and tinkling sound in the bowl or cup. As the hot water interacts with the tea, the pellets gracefully unfurl, resembling blooming flowers, and gently sink to the bottom, creating mesmerizing patterns that add a visual delight to the tea-drinking experience.

A cup of Gunpowder tea delivers a robust and captivating dark-green brew with a memorable fragrance. The flavor strikes a delicate balance, with a slight bitterness that is by no means unpleasant. The tea leaves a lasting impression on the palate, leaving you with a satisfying and lingering finish.

Due to its density, Gunpowder tea requires only one or two teaspoons per teapot, making it an economical choice without compromising on taste and aroma.

Indulge in the time-honored allure of Gunpowder Green Tea, where legend meets exceptional quality. Allow the tightly rolled pellets to unfurl and infuse your senses with its captivating flavor, enticing fragrance, and visually stunning display. With its remarkable longevity and remarkable characteristics, Gunpowder Green Tea invites you to savor a truly memorable tea-drinking experience.