Golden Monkey Black Tea
Type: Traditional Chinese black tea (hong cha)
Origin: Mainly from Fujian and Yunnan provinces
Name Origin: The dried tea leaves are golden and curly, said to resemble a monkey’s claws
Harvest: High-quality versions are hand-picked, often using only the bud and one leaf
🍂 Flavor Profile
Aroma: Rich, warm, sweet with hints of cocoa and dried fruit
Taste:
Smooth and malty
Hints of honey, cocoa, and peach
Naturally sweet, low bitterness
Texture: Silky and full-bodied
🫖 How to Brew Golden Monkey Black Tea
Method Details
Water Temp 90–95°C (194–203°F)
Time 2–3 minutes (Western style), or shorter steeps Gongfu style
Ratio 1 tsp (~2–3g) per 250ml water
Style Works great for Western-style brewing or gongfu tea sessions with multiple infusions
👉 For gongfu brewing: Start with 5g in a gaiwan or small pot, steep for 10–15 seconds, and increase with each round.
🌿 Health Benefits
Golden Monkey Black Tea combines the wellness aspects of black tea with a naturally sweet profile:
Heart Health – May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol
Antioxidants – Rich in theaflavins and thearubigins that combat oxidative stress
Mental Boost – Moderate caffeine improves focus without overstimulation
Gut-Friendly – Supports digestion and microbiome balance
Oral Health – Natural antibacterial effects help reduce plaque