Originating in Fuding, Fujian, it is considered the ancestor of Fuding white teas and carries centuries of tradition.
A legend tells of a woman named Taimu who used this tea to heal children with measles, spreading its reputation widely. Today, it is recognized as a national geographic indication product and a symbol of white tea heritage.
This tea is harvested in spring (March–April) from Fuding Dabai and Dahao cultivars grown at 500–600 meters altitude in Nanping, Fujian, near the Wuyi Mountain southern slopes. The fresh leaves are picked by hand, using the standard of one bud with one or two leaves.
Lǜ Xuě Yá is made by withering and slow drying without rolling or oxidation. Leaves are laid out naturally indoors or in sun-dappled shade to allow moisture to evaporate and inner compounds to transform. Slow drying over gentle heat finishes the process and locks in the tea’s delicate character.