ARIEL Keemun Superior

Keemun is one of China's most famous black teas, and a quiet cornerstone of the classic English Breakfast blend. Our Keemun Superior is the higher grade, made from young, tender leaves and prized for a smooth, layered cup with a gentle, wine-like depth. It brews to a bright reddish-amber and drinks well any time of day, with or without milk.

Tasting Notes

The cup is rich and mellow, more rounded than brisk. Expect a complex, slightly floral bouquet, a subtle smokiness, and notes that lean toward cocoa and dried fruit. What sets Keemun apart is its finish: soft, lingering and naturally sweet. Smooth enough to drink on its own, it also stands up nicely to a splash of milk.

Origin

Keemun takes its name from Qimen, a county in China's Anhui province where it has been made since the late 1800s. Grown at altitude in cool, well-drained hills, the leaves are hand-picked, then withered, rolled, oxidised and dried in the traditional way that gives Keemun its signature aroma. It earned its reputation quickly in the West and became a mainstay of English-style breakfast blends, a place it still holds today.

Brewing

Heat fresh water to 95 °C, just off the boil, and steep 2.5 g of leaves (about one teaspoon) for 3 minutes. A shorter steep keeps it delicate; a slightly longer one brings out its fuller, maltier side.

Additional Information

• Ingredients: Whole leaf black tea
• Available formats: 55 g loose leaf, 100 g loose leaf, 1 kg loose leaf
• Certifications: Kosher
• Foundation: Humaniterra Foundation