The 10 Best Chinese Teas You Need to Try

China is the birthplace of tea, with a rich history spanning thousands of years. From the delicate floral notes of Silver Needle to the deep, earthy richness of Shou Pu’er, Chinese tea offers an incredible range of flavours and aromas. As a tea sommelier, I’ve had the privilege of exploring many of these legendary teas—each with its own story, unique terroir, and centuries-old craftsmanship.

In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the 10 best Chinese teas, covering their production areas, taste profiles, and health benefits.

1. Longjing (Dragon Well) – The Most Famous Green Tea

Production Area:

Longjing is grown in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, particularly around West Lake, where the terroir creates the best-quality tea.

Taste:

It has a smooth, nutty-sweet taste with hints of chestnut and a refreshing umami finish.

Health Benefits:

• High in antioxidants that combat free radicals
• Supports heart health and may help reduce cholesterol
• Rich in L-theanine, which promotes calm focus

2. Sheng Pu’er (Raw Pu’er) – A Tea That Ages Like Fine Wine

Production Area:

Sheng Pu’er is exclusively grown in Yunnan Province, from large-leaf tea trees in regions such as Xishuangbanna, Lincang, and Pu’er.

Taste:

Young Sheng Pu’er has a bright, floral, and slightly astringent taste, while aged Sheng Pu’er develops honeyed, fruity, and woody notes.

Health Benefits:

• Aids digestion and supports gut health
• Contains polyphenols that may help regulate blood sugar

3. Shou Pu’er (Ripe Pu’er) – The Gut-Friendly Tea

 

Production Area:

Also grown in Yunnan Province, Shou Pu’er undergoes a special fermentation process known as wo dui (wet piling) to accelerate aging.

Taste:

It has a rich, smooth, earthy flavour with notes of shiitake and dried orange peel.

Health Benefits:

• Packed with probiotics, supporting gut health
• Helps lower cholesterol and support heart health
• Naturally low in caffeine, making it a great digestif anytime during the day

4. Wuyi Rock Tea (Yancha) – The Bold and Roasty Oolong

Production Area:

Wuyi Rock Tea, or Yancha, is grown in the Wuyi Mountains, Fujian Province, where mineral-rich soil gives the tea its distinct rocky character.

Taste:

It has a deep, roasted flavour with layers of cocoa, minerals, and floral notes.

Health Benefits:

• Boosts metabolism and aids in weight management
• Supports heart health by reducing bad cholesterol
• Contains polyphenols that help fight inflammation

5. Bi Luo Chun – The Fruity Green Tea

Production Area:

Bi Luo Chun is grown in Jiangsu Province, near Dongting Mountain, where fruit trees surround the tea gardens, influencing its aroma.

Taste:

It has a sweet, floral, and fruity taste with a light, smooth mouthfeel.

Health Benefits:

• High in catechins, which have anti-aging properties
• Supports brain health and may enhance cognitive function
• Helps detoxify the body with natural antioxidants

6. Huangshan Maofeng – A Delicate, Fragrant Green Tea

Production Area:

This tea is grown in the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) region of Anhui Province, known for its misty, cool climate.

Taste:

It has a sweet, floral, and slightly vegetal flavour with a lingering freshness.

Health Benefits:

• Supports skin health due to high antioxidant content
• Boosts immune function

7. Anxi Tieguanyin – The Queen of Oolongs

Production Area:

Tieguanyin is cultivated in Anxi, Fujian Province, where the cool, humid climate enhances its complex flavour.

Taste:

• Light-roasted Tieguanyin: Floral, buttery, creamy
• Traditional roasted Tieguanyin: Nutty, caramel-like, toasty

Health Benefits:

• Aids digestion and helps break down fats
• Supports bone health due to high mineral content
• Reduces stress and anxiety with calming amino acids

8. Qimen (Keemun) Black Tea – The Burgundy of Teas

Production Area:

Keemun black tea is grown in Qimen County, Anhui Province, where foggy mountains create the perfect conditions for black tea production.

Taste:

It has a smooth flavour with notes of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and orchid.

Health Benefits:

• Naturally energising, with a steady caffeine release
• Supports heart health and circulation
• Helps improve focus and mental clarity

9. Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) – The Finest White Tea

Production Area:

Silver Needle comes from Fuding and Zhenghe, Fujian Province, where only the youngest, unopened tea buds are harvested.

Taste:

It has a light, sweet, and honey-like flavour with a smooth finish.

Health Benefits:

• High in antioxidants, supporting immune health
• Naturally low in caffeine, making it a gentle tea for evenings
• Helps hydrate the body and promote glowing skin

10. Junshan Yinzhen – The Rare Yellow Tea

Production Area:

This yellow tea is grown on Junshan Island in Hunan Province, where it undergoes a unique sealed fermentation process.

Taste:

It has a mellow, sweet, and slightly fruity taste with a silky texture.

Health Benefits:

• Supports gut health due to its slow fermentation process
• Aids digestion and reduces bloating
• Provides gentle energy with low caffeine levels

 

Whether you’re a seasoned tea drinker or just beginning your journey, these top 10 Chinese teas offer a world of flavours and wellness benefits.

What’s your favourite Chinese tea? Let me know in the comments!