Da Hong Pao is a semi-fermented oolong tea.also known as the Emperor of Tea. It originated from wild rare tea plants that were found growing on the cliff of Wuyi Mountain. Da Hong Pao yields a golden yellow liquid that produces a pleasant long lasting aftertaste. This tea is also renowned for its nourishing medicinal properties. It is said that a high-ranking official of the king fell sick and the imperial doctors could not treat him. Monks from the Fujian province heard of this and brought tea leaves from the Wuyi Mountain. The tea restored the officer to health. As a measure of his thanks he gave his red robe to the monks since the monks did not want any money. This is how the tea earned the name Da Hong Pao, meaning big red robe.
The leaves are pressed into cakes so that they could be preserved in good condition just like pu-erh. The leaves are large, complete, and dark in color. The roast comes through first in the aroma, with a gentle, warm charcoal note which is followed by a pointed touch of flowers.