keemun concerto tea

What is full-leaf Keemun tea and where is it grown?

Full-leaf Keemun tea is a classic Chinese black tea made from the whole, unbroken leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant that have been fully oxidized during processing to develop a rich flavour and complex aroma. The term “full-leaf” simply means the leaves remain intact rather than being cut into smaller pieces or fannings, so when brewed they release flavour more gradually and often yield a smoother, more nuanced cup. This tea is grown exclusively in Qimen County in the Anhui Province of eastern China, in a misty mountainous region shaped by the slopes of the Yellow Mountains and fed by mineral-rich soils and frequent fog. The name “Keemun” is an English romanization of the county name “Qimen,” and the area has been the traditional home of this black tea since it was first produced there in the late 1800s. Keemun’s terroir and processing give it a distinctive profile often described as floral and fruity with hints of cocoa, slight smokiness, and a smooth, fragrant finish, making it one of China’s most celebrated black teas and a valued single-origin leaf for tea lovers and blends alike.

What does full-leaf Keemun tea taste like?

Full-leaf Keemun tea brews into a cup that is smooth and complex, with a mild, malty sweetness and layered aromatics that set it apart from many other black teas. It typically shows delicate floral and fruity notes often likened to orchid, stone fruit or subtle berry tones, along with a gentle smokiness or toasty quality that can give it depth and character. Many people also detect hints of cocoa or unsweetened chocolate and honey-like sweetness, framed by a relatively low astringency that leaves the liquor velvety and mellow rather than harsh. Overall, the flavour is balanced and refined, with a fragrant bouquet and a lingering, pleasant finish.

Is Keemun tea high in caffeine?

Yes. Full-leaf Keemun is a moderately caffeinated black tea, and its caffeine level falls in the typical range for black teas rather than being exceptionally high. A standard 8-ounce cup of Keemun generally provides about 30 mg to 60 mg of caffeine, though some sources suggest up to around 70 mg depending on the specific leaves and how it is brewed. This amount gives a noticeable energy boost and increased alertness, but it is lower than the caffeine in a similar cup of coffee, which is often well over 90 mg, and broadly comparable to many other black teas.

How should loose leaf Keemun tea be brewed for the best flavor?

To bring out the best flavor in loose-leaf Keemun tea, use fresh, hot water close to boiling, ideally around 90 °C to 100 °C (194 °F to 212 °F), so the leaves fully open and release their rich, aromatic profile. Measure about 1 to 2 teaspoons of tea per 8-ounce (250 ml) cup or roughly 2–3 g of leaves for each serving. Pour the hot water over the leaves and steep for about 3 to 5 minutes, adjusting within that range for your taste — shorter steeping for a lighter, more floral brew; longer for a deeper, more robust cup. Once the time is up, remove the leaves so the tea does not become overly bitter. Filtered or spring water and pre-warming your teapot or cup can also enhance the final flavor, helping the liquor stay bright and balanced.

What are the health benefits of drinking Keemun tea?

Drinking Keemun tea, like other black teas, may offer a number of potential health benefits largely tied to the antioxidants and plant compounds it contains. Since Keemun is a black tea from Camellia sinensis, it shares many of the positive effects associated with black teas more broadly. It is rich in polyphenols such as theaflavins and thearubigins, which act as antioxidants and may help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. These compounds have been linked to heart health benefits, including support for healthy cholesterol levels and improved blood vessel function, which may contribute to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke when tea consumption is part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Other reported benefits include digestive support, as the tea’s compounds may aid digestion and help maintain a healthy gut environment, and immune support due to antioxidant activity that protects cells from damage.

Where can I buy loose-leaf Keemun tea online?

Buy premium loose-leaf Keemun tea online at Adagio Teas. Choose from the solid and affordable Keemun Concerto tea, and the exquisite and memorable Keemun Rhapsody tea. Both teas are grown by Wang Ai Guo, and are available in sample packs, pyramid teabags, various bulk sizes, as well as single-serve portions.