Leafhopper Bitten Teas

 

Leaf Hopper-bitten teas from Taiwan, such as Oriental Beauty and Gui Fei Oolong, are uniquely shaped by the bite of the tiny Jacobiasca formosana insect. When these leafhoppers nibble the tea leaves, the plant responds by producing aromatic compounds as a natural defense. This results in naturally sweet, honeyed, and fruity notes, often with hints of spice and muscatel. Unlike other teas, these are prized for their insect-assisted oxidation, which enhances complexity without added flavouring. Grown without pesticides to preserve the insects' presence, these teas embody a rare harmony between nature, craft, and flavour that’s distinctly Taiwanese.

Experience the natural sweetness and depth of leafhopper-bitten teas. This curated collection showcases four exceptional teas, each shaped by the unique relationship between tea plants and the tiny leafhopper, resulting in rich, honeyed flavours.

Jade White Tea:
Soft, floral, and gently sweet.
Made from tender, downy buds lightly oxidized to preserve their delicacy, this white tea offers a soothing cup with notes of chamomile, honey, and a creamy hint of almond milk. Light-bodied yet flavourful, it reflects the gentle elegance of Taiwanese white tea kissed by leafhoppers.

Oriental Beauty Oolong: 
Lush, aromatic, and iconic.
Perhaps the most famous of all leafhopper-bitten teas, this heavily oxidized oolong is a celebration of transformation. Rich in aroma and complexity, it delivers vibrant notes of lychee, rose, and layered honey. With its signature reddish-brown leaves and sweet-fruited finish, Oriental Beauty is a true Taiwanese treasure.

Gui Fei Honey Oolong: 
Deep, warming, and slightly spicy.
Grown at high elevation and allowed to undergo a partial oxidation after leafhopper activity, this rolled oolong offers a bold and comforting profile. Notes of toffee, dark cherry, and licorice root unfold over a rich, smooth body. It’s a tea that balances intensity with sweetness, perfect for reflective moments.

Honey Black Tea: 
Bold, smooth, and naturally sweet.
This unique black tea is crafted with a full oxidation process, allowing the leafhopper influence to shine through with depth and richness. Expect deep notes of raisin, wild honey, and malt, resulting in a comforting, full-bodied cup with a velvety finish and a touch of sweet warmth.

 

Perfect for tea connoisseurs and curious sippers alike, this collection invites you to taste the profound effect of nature on flavor. Each tea is a tribute to the harmony between plant and insect, skillfully transformed by expert hands.