6 Secrets of Xinyang Hair Tips: The Standard of Mao Jian

Xinyang Hair Tips (Xinyang Mao Jian) is a crowning jewel in our Green Tea Collection and a variety that serves as the gold standard for all “Mao Jian” teas. Produced in the county of Xinyang within the Henan Province, this tea has been regularly included among the ten best teas of China since 1959.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The Chinese name for Xinyang Hair Tips is a perfect combination of geography and craftsmanship. While “Xinyang” refers to its prestigious home county, “Mao Jian” indicates the sharp, pike-like shape given to the leaves during the intensive processing stages. While other provinces produce peak-shaped teas, the Xinyang Hair Tips variety is universally considered the authentic standard.

Terroir: Five Clouds and Black-White Dragons

The long, thin leaves of Xinyang Hair Tips are picked in a breathtakingly scenic region known as “Five clouds and ponds of black and white dragons.” Located in an area of favorable climate, the tea bushes are protected from temperature drops and scorching sun. This unique terroir ensures that the taste of Xinyang Hair Tips remains incredibly mild and delicate.

• Silver Down: Soft fibers that give the dry tea a fluffy appearance.
• Nutrient Rich: Grown in an area where tea bushes do not experience stress.
• Pike Shape: Exceptionally thin and straight leaves.
• Refreshing Taste: A clean, floral finish with no bitterness.

Appearance: The “Sharp Pike” Anatomy

For the production of Xinyang Hair Tips, only the most tender tea buds and the very top leaf are selected. These young parts are covered with soft silver down. When processed, they take on a needle-like straightness. This down not only protects the bud but also gives the brewed Xinyang Hair Tips its signature “fluffy” visual character in the glass.

Mastery Brewing: The Glass Vessel Method

To truly appreciate the visual beauty of Xinyang Hair Tips, we recommend brewing in a tall glass. This allows you to watch the fluffy, down-covered buds dance in the water.