Thriving in the high-altitude plateaus of Sichuan’s Liangshan, Yunnan’s Diqing, and Gansu’s Longnan, this robust grain tea draws life from nutrient-rich, well-drained soil where the air is thin and the sunlight intense. The (tartary buckwheat) plants, with their triangular seeds and heart-shaped leaves, stand resilient against the region’s harsh conditions—large temperature differences between day and night, strong ultraviolet radiation, and occasional frost. These extreme elements trigger the accumulation of rutin and other beneficial compounds, infusing the grains with a distinctive, earthy depth that sets them apart from common grains.

Exceptional Flavor Profile

Savor the tea’s bold, nutty essence: a rich, toasty base with notes of roasted barley and dark chocolate, balanced by a gentle bitterness that softens into a mellow, sweet aftertaste. The first sip delivers a robust, grainy warmth—like the aroma of freshly baked bread from a country oven—followed by layers of complexity that unfold slowly. A subtle “mai xiang” (grain fragrance) lingers on the palate, while the finish leaves a clean, satisfying sweetness with a hint of herbal astringency, making each sip feel both grounding and revitalizing. The liquor shimmers with a deep amber hue, its texture smooth and full-bodied, carrying the concentrated vitality of the highlands in every drop.

Artisanal Craftsmanship

Harvested in autumn when the plants turn golden and the seeds are plump and mature, local farmers cut the stalks by hand and let them dry in the sun before threshing to separate the grains. The seeds undergo a meticulous cleaning process to remove impurities, then are roasted at low temperatures to bring out their rich, nutty flavor. This careful roasting, done in traditional iron pans over slow-burning fires, transforms the raw grains into fragrant, crunchy kernels that release their essence steadily when steeped. No additives or flavorings are introduced; the tea’s appeal lies in its unadulterated, roasted intensity, captured at the peak of harvest.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Ideal for cold winter mornings when you crave a warming, hearty beverage, or as a comforting pick-me-up during long workdays, its natural nutrients providing a steady energy boost. Its robust flavor pairs beautifully with savory snacks like salted peanuts or dried meat, the saltiness balancing the tea’s bitterness, or with sweet treats like honey cakes, which complement its toasty notes. It also shines as a post-meal drink, helping to aid digestion, or as a refreshing iced tea in summer, its bold character standing up well to chilling. Whether enjoyed by health enthusiasts seeking its nutritional benefits or tea lovers drawn to its unique grainy flavor, it brings the resilience of highland life to every cup.

Brewing Guidelines

Packaged in an airtight paper bag or tin to preserve its roasted aroma, this tea retains the essence of its highland origins. Let each sip transport you to sun-drenched plateaus where plants sway in the mountain breeze—where this exceptional tea captures the hardiness of nature and the wisdom of traditional grain processing.