Bi Lou Chun Tea

Bi Lou Chun Tea, also known as Biluochun, Pi Lo Chun, or Bi Luo Tea, is a Loose Leaf Green Tea from China. Famous worldwide for its quality, this tea is beauty to behold, with finely twisted, medium sized leaves and a green and silver appearance.

When brewed, it gives a pale gold liquor with a delicate but enticing aroma. The flavour is equally impressive, light and buttery with a crisp finish, perfect for tea connoisseurs looking for a premium and memorable experience.

What is Bi Lou Chun Tea?

Bi Lou Chun means “Green Snail Spring”, its poetic name comes from its early spring harvest and the snail-like shape of the leaves. One of China’s Ten Famous Teas, it has been enchanting tea lovers for generations with its flavour, appearance and fragrance.

This tea is traditionally grown in the Dongting Mountain region near Lake Tai in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The region’s cool climate, rich soil and misty conditions created by the lake provide the perfect environment, resulting in its exceptional taste and aroma.

While Dongting Mountain is the historic home of Bi Lou Chun, it is also grown in other regions, such as Zhejiang, Sichuan and Fujian Provinces, which adds to its availability.

History and Origin of Bi Lou Chun Green Tea

Bi Lou Chun Green Tea has a history of over 1,000 years dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). Famous for its delicate flavour and quality, it quickly won the favour of Chinese emperors and scholars and became a treasured commodity in Chinese culture.

The tea’s modern name “Bi Lou Chun” which means “Green Snail Spring” was given during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912 CE) by the Kangxi Emperor. It is said the name was given because of the tea’s spiral shape, resembling a snail shell, and its green leaves harvested in the fresh spring season.

These characteristics perfectly capture the tea’s essence – fresh, green and painstakingly crafted. Tea master Zhen Jun (1857–1918) further elevated it to the top of the Chinese green teas in his writings. This not only reflects its flavour profile, but also its status as a symbol of Chinese tea drinking culture.

Grown mainly in the Dongting Mountain region near Lake Tai were unique geographical and climate conditions enhance its quality, Bi Lou Chun is also grown in other provinces, such as Zhejiang, Sichuan and Fujian, increasing its availability while preserving its artisanal heritage.

Today, Bi Lou Chun is a symbol of craftsmanship steeped in history, embodying the richness of Chinese Tea culture, and continues to enchant tea lovers worldwide.

Simple Brewing Guide for Bi Luo Chun

To fully appreciate the lovely flavour and aroma of Bi Luo Chun, follow these simple steps:

1. Measure the Tea – Use 3g for every 150ml of water. Use a clear glass teapot or cup to watch the leaves unfurl.
2. Heat the Water – Heat fresh, filtered water to 175°F (80°C). Don’t use boiling water as it will burn the tea leaves and affect the taste.
3. Brew the Tea – Add the tea leaves to your teapot or cup, then pour the hot water over them. Steep for 1-2 minutes depending on your preferred strength. Don’t over-steep as it will be bitter.
4. Serve and Enjoy – Pour the tea into cups and savour the fresh floral aroma and light sweet taste. Bi Luo Chun can be steeped multiple times for a continuous tea drinking experience.

By following this guide, you can have a proper and enjoyable experience and bring the tradition and elegance of Chinese tea culture to life.

Tasting Notes

Famous for its unique flavour, this is refreshing and complex. On the first sip you will get a gentle sweetness and a delicate floral aroma that is soothing and energising.

The initial flavour is often described as fresh and tender, with subtle chestnut and fruit notes giving the tea body. As you sip further, the umami undertones start to unfold, and you get a soft buttery texture that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

The tea looks as good as it tastes, pale golden green liquor and elegant. The aroma is clean, like blooming orchards in spring, with a light grassy note.

The aftertaste is crisp and sweet, leaving you wanting to sip again. Each infusion is a different nuance of flavour, a thrilling experience.

Overall this is a sensory delight that combines flavour, aroma and visuals.

Whether you drink it as a ritual or with friends, it’s a statement of fine tea craftsmanship. Balanced and unique, it’s good for both old tea hands and newbies, and leaves a lasting impression with every sip.