Ruby 18 Black Tea

What's so special about this tea?

This black tea comes from Yuchi, in Nantou County, in central Taiwan, a region renowned for both its tea cultivation and the famous Sun Moon Lake. The area offers an ideal climate and temperature for growing black tea. It is made entirely from the TTES No. 18 cultivar, known in Taiwan as Hong Yu, a variety unique to the island, resulting from a cross between Burmese Assamica and Taiwanese Camellia formosensis.

The production is in the hands of a family that has been cultivating tea for two generations. The plantation, located 750 meters above sea level, is pesticide-free and entirely organic, surrounded by fruit trees, palm trees, and other vegetation. The harvest took place in August 2025 and was hand-picked, selecting one bud and two leaves. During our visit, we had the opportunity to spend time with them and witness their respect for nature and their meticulous attention to both the care of the plantation and the tea production process.

This tea impresses with its aromatic and intense character, and its appearance is equally striking. Fresh aromas of menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus stand out, along with hints of sweet spices. The infusion is amber-orange in color, medium-bodied, honeyed, sweet, and with a subtle astringency. On the palate, notes of menthol, cinnamon, and orange candy are perceived. The aftertaste is sweet, with a fresh, mineral sensation. The empty cup releases a captivating resinous aroma.

We recommend preparing it in a clay teapot or gaiwan to enjoy it to the fullest.