YING MING YUNNAN

Industry experts agree that Yunnan, a region in China that shares borders with Laos, Vietnam, Burma, and Tibet, is where some of the world’s finest tea was originally planted. Despite the calming effects of a cup of freshly brewed tea, tradition has it that the Yunnan tea plantations were the result of a tragic conflict.

According to historical accounts from China’s three dynasties period (220-265 AD), a raiding army under the command of a general battled against the central government.

After invading from neighbouring Hunan, Kong Ming (at the time one of the most dreaded men in China) took control of Yunnan. Kong Ming was not only an exceptional military tactician, but also a scientist who excelled in botany. As soon as he took control of the province, he surveyed its geography and wildlife and decided it would be an excellent place to grow tea. The commander then gave orders for a thousand of his soldiers to spread the tea plants they had brought from Hunan over the Yunnanese mountains. The temperature and altitude of Yunnan Province make it ideal for cultivating tea, regardless of whether you accept the narrative of Kong Ming. The tea is produced at altitudes between 4,500 and 6,000 feet above sea level. Ying Ming is a natural greenhouse where Yunnan tea plants flourish due to the high altitude, warmth, and humidity of the region. To a greater or lesser extent, all Yunnan teas share the same full-bodied, somewhat sweet taste profile that distinguishes Yunnan.

The next time you hear “War, war, what is good for?” pour yourself a cup of this wonderful tea and think about it. If nothing else, you’ll have confirmation that it had some useful purpose.