I. What is Tribute Tea

Tribute tea was historically used by the imperial court, exclusively supplied for the enjoyment of the imperial palace. Since it was intended for the royal nobility, the tea naturally had to be of the utmost refinement, requiring the best cultivation environment, tea plant varieties, and tea-making techniques.

II. Introduction to the Types of Tribute Tea

1. Pu'er Tribute Tea

Pu'er Tribute Tea was officially listed in the tribute tea records in the tenth year of the Yongzheng reign. Legend has it that Pu'er Tribute Tea was made from tender buds and leaves picked by unmarried young maidens. After long-term storage, it would turn a golden yellow color.

2. Mansong Tribute Tea

Mansong Tribute Tea was produced by the villagers living in the old Mansong village and is considered a top-grade premium Pu'er tea.

3. Among China's famous teas and local renowned teas today, many were once listed as tribute teas by successive imperial courts. The following are some that were historically included:

Zhejiang: West Lake Longjing, Chun'an Jiukeng Tea, Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot, Tianmu Mountain Qingding, Yandang Maofeng, Jinhua Juyan, Rizhu Snow Bud.

Anhui: Liuan Guapian, Jingting Green Snow, Yongxi Fire Green, Huoshan Yellow Bud, Yuexi Cuilan.

Fujian: White Tea, Tianshan Qingshui Green, Wuyi Big Red Robe, Anxi Huyue Tieguanyin, Wuyi Cinnamon.

Hunan: Junshan Maojian, Pilu Cave Cloud Mist Tea, Guanzhuang Maojian, Nanyue Cloud Mist, Dayong Maojian, Guzhang Maojian.

Sichuan: Mengding Yellow Bud, Bayue Green Tea.

Guizhou: Guiding Cloud Mist Tea, Duyun Maojian, Meijiang Cuipian.

Jiangxi: Ninghong, Wuyuan Green Tea, Lushan Cloud Mist Tea (known as Wenlin Tea in ancient times).

Jiangsu: Biluochun, Huaguoshan Cloud Mist Tea, Yixing Yangxian Tea.

Shaanxi: Ziyang Maojian.

Henan: Xinyang Maojian.

Yunnan: Pu'er Tea.

Taiwan Province: Wenshan Baozhong Tea.

The above is an introduction to what tribute tea is and its various types, presented by the editor today.