Liu An Gua Pian (Melon Seed) – Classic Green Tea from Anhui

Product Overview

A celebrated green tea from Liu’an, Anhui. Made from even-sized leaf pieces (no buds) and fired gently over low heat, the leaves curl into a signature “melon seed” shape. It brews a bright green cup with savory umami, light roasted-nut tones, and a clean, refreshing finish.

Key Features

• Iconic “Melon Seed” Shape: Low-heat pan-firing shapes the leaves into neat curls resembling melon seeds.
• Leaf-Only Craft: Even-sized leaf pieces yield clarity, lasting aroma, and balanced strength.
• Refreshing Umami Profile: Savory-sweet body with gentle nuttiness and a crisp, tidy finish.
• Historic Prestige: A time-honored tea long prized by connoisseurs and dignitaries.

Health Benefits

• Antioxidant Support: Green tea polyphenols help support everyday wellness.
• Gentle Energy: Moderate caffeine balanced by L-theanine for calm focus.
• Clean Hydration: Bright, refreshing finish makes it ideal for daily sipping.

Brewing Instructions

• Western Style: 3–4 g tea · 500 ml water at 80–85 °C · 2–3 min. Use fewer leaves rather than over-steeping to avoid bitterness.
• Gongfu Style: 5 g · 100 ml at 85 °C · quick rinse · 8–12 s to start; add 5–10 s each round (3–6 infusions).
• Cold Brew: 6 g · 1 L cold water · refrigerate ~5 hrs for a crisp, savory-sweet iced tea.
• Serving Tip: Straight is best; a slice of citrus accentuates the clean finish for iced versions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Why is it called “Melon Seed”?
  A: The curled leaves resemble melon seeds after gentle low-heat pan-firing.
• Q: How does it differ from Longjing?
  A: It’s a leaf-only tea (no buds) with a crisper, umami-forward cup, while Longjing leans silkier and chestnut-sweet.
• Q: Can it be re-infused?
  A: Yes—expect 3–5 steeps Western, and more via Gongfu as you extend time gradually.