Golden Snail Black Tea

Golden Snail – Rolled Yunnan Black Tea with Sweet, Malty Warmth (金螺红茶)

Classic Dian Hong Black Tea from Yunnan, Hand-Rolled into Golden Spirals
Rich • Sweet • Smooth

Golden curls of spring tea, naturally sweet and deeply comforting.

Golden Snail (金螺红茶) is a beloved style of Yunnan Dian Hong black tea, made by hand-rolling young golden buds and tender leaves into tight spirals resembling little snails. When brewed, the leaves unfurl slowly to release a bold, smooth liquor with notes of cocoa, honey, baked fruit, and malted grain.

This tea is rich but not overpowering—soft and warming, with no bitterness. The rolled shape not only protects the leaf’s delicate oils but also adds to the visual charm of brewing.

Why You’ll Love Golden Snail

• Made from early spring buds and leaves, hand-rolled into spirals
• Naturally sweet and malty with zero bitterness
• Beautiful to brew—watch the golden curls slowly unfurl
• Deep yet smooth flavor—perfect for daily comfort or cozy evenings
• A classic Yunnan red tea with balanced body and soft warmth

Tasting Notes

• Cocoa, molasses, and roasted yam
• Sweet malty base with hints of honey and dried fruit
• Smooth and full-bodied with gentle mineral clarity
• Long, warming aftertaste with a soft returning sweetness

Tea Profile

• Type: Chinese Black Tea (Red Tea, 红茶)
• Style: Rolled “Golden Snail” (金螺)
• Origin: Yunnan Province, China
• Cultivar: Yunnan Da Ye Zhong (Large-leaf variety)
• Harvest: Spring 2025
• Craftsmanship: Hand-rolled, fully oxidized, low-temperature dried
• Appearance: Small, tightly rolled golden spirals; amber-red liquor
• Collected: 2025

Processing

Golden Snail is made with care and tradition:

1. Plucking – 1 bud with 1–2 young leaves
2. Withering & Oxidation – Slow oxidation develops warmth and aroma
3. Rolling – Leaves are hand-rolled into tight spirals
4. Drying – Low-temperature drying locks in essential oils and shape

The rolled form enhances shelf life, controls steeping, and ensures a clean, layered infusion.

Health Benefits

• Gently energizing—ideal for mornings or focused afternoons
• High in theanine, polyphenols, and antioxidants
• Smooth on the stomach with low astringency
• Naturally sweet—no sugar or milk needed

Brewing Instructions

Gongfu Method (5 oz / 150 ml)

• Tea amount: 5–6 grams
• Water temperature: 90–95°C / 194–203°F
• Rinse: Optional (5 sec)
• Infusions:
• 1st: 25–30 sec
• 2nd: 30–40 sec
• 3rd–6th: Increase time gradually
• Tip: Use a clear glass teapot or Gaiwan to enjoy the unfurling spirals

Cup Method (8.8 oz / 250 ml)

• Tea amount: Adjust based on personal preference for tea strength.
• Water temperature: 90°C / 194°F
• Steep time: 2.5–3 minutes
• Re-steep: 2–3 times
• Note: Naturally flavorful—best enjoyed without additions

Cultural Significance

Golden Snail is a modern evolution of Yunnan Dian Hong, created for both visual beauty and flavor depth. Its spiral shape protects the tender buds, while enhancing the steeping experience. A favorite among red tea lovers in China and abroad, this tea combines rustic richness with elegant sweetness.

It’s perfect for anyone seeking a warming, smooth, and visually engaging tea ritual.