Legend ties this Yunnan green tea to a dragon. The story goes that a peaceable tea farmer, working the hills of Yunnan Province during a lawless stretch of history, was set upon by bandits who beat him and made off with his entire season's crop. That night a dragon appeared, and together they tracked the gang into the forest, where one blast of fire reduced the thieves to ash and won back the sacks of tea. In gratitude, the farmer blended his leaves with red safflower petals in honour of the dragon's flame, and that blend is said to be the origin of Mountain Dragon Green Tea. Whatever the truth of the tale, the tea has earned real recognition, taking Provincial and National awards in China at least 26 times, and it carries a documented history as a Tribute Tea served in the Imperial courts of Chinese emperors, dating back hundreds of years.
In the cup it is smooth and refreshing, with fruity undertones and a delicately sweet aftertaste. Taken plain, its malty, grassy and earthy character comes through, sometimes edging toward something almost coffee-like, with a savoury, forest-floor depth sitting under the sweetness. The liquor pours pale yellow and light. Lemon is the traditional way to serve it, though it stands up fine on its own as a loose leaf green tea.
To brew, use freshly boiled water cooled to around 80 degrees and infuse for three to four minutes. As with other green teas, it has long been valued in traditional use for its antioxidant content, sometimes drunk as part of a broader active, healthy routine, though these remain traditional associations rather than medical claims.
