Knowing Pai Mu Tan


White Peony
The interesting thing with the transliteration of Chinese words is that you can get away with just about any spelling. This marvellous white tea is known as Pai Mu Tan, Bai Mudan or its Western translation, White Peony.

It comes from Fujian, a southeastern province of China and one of the country’s biggest tea producers. As with every white tea, processing is minimal, but needs to be handled very carefully. Pai Mu Dan is only made with the buds and first two leaves of the Shui Xian and Da Bai bushes. Once harvested, they are withered and sun-dried (or dried on very low heat) to produce a pale, very mild brew, which is delicately sweet and has a hint of toasted nuts.

Steep for several minutes (about 7) in very hot but not boiling water (185F or 85C). A simpler way is to let the water boil then wait for it to cool a little.


This is what tea company Adagio say about it:

 

White Peony

White tea from the Fujian province of China. White Peony, known locally as Pai Mu Tan, is a delicate tea made from tea buds collected and withered prior to opening. The latest medical findings suggest that white tea may be a more effective cancer fighter than even green tea. These findings have brought white teas to a much wider audience. If you are beginning your exploration of white tea, our “White A’ Cappella” tea will serve a wonderful introduction.