Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea

Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea: Vietnam’s Ancient Highland Treasure

Nestled in the pristine mountains of Điện Biên province, Tua Chua snow shan tea represents one of Vietnam’s most extraordinary tea varieties. This ancient tea, also known as Shan Tuyet or Thuyet Shan tea, has captivated tea enthusiasts worldwide with its unique characteristics and centuries-old heritage.

What is Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea?

Snow shan tea originates from ancient tea trees growing at altitudes exceeding 1,400 meters above sea level. The name derives from the Vietnamese words “Shan” (mountain) and “Tuyết” (snow), reflecting both its highland origins and the distinctive white downy coating on the tea leaves’ undersides.

This remarkable tea goes by several names including Shan Tuyet tea, Thuyet Shan tea, and immortal tea. The Vietnamese “Thuyet Shan” tea tree (thuyet = snow, shan = high mountain) is growing up to 15 meters tall. Shan Tuyết tea, also known as ‘immortal tea’ because many trees are hundreds of years old, has become a symbol of this land.

The Ancient Tea Forest of Tua Chua

Extraordinary Natural Environment

Tua Chua district boasts nearly 600 hectares of tea cultivation. Among these, approximately 30 hectares contain over 10,000 ancient snow shan tea trees, some hundreds of years old. The cool highland climate and unique soil composition create perfect conditions for these magnificent trees to thrive.

The ancient tea trees display remarkable characteristics. The largest specimens reach diameters exceeding 2.5 meters and heights of more than ten meters. These century-old giants grow densely together, forming natural ancient tea forests that have survived countless seasons.

Unique Physical Characteristics

What makes snow shan tea truly special is its distinctive appearance. The tea buds are large and grayish-white, while the leaf undersides feature fine white downy hairs. This natural coating gives the tea its “snow” designation and contributes to its exceptional quality.

During winter months, these hardy trees endure harsh conditions including frost and ice. However, when spring arrives, they burst forth with vigorous new growth, producing abundant harvests that reward patient cultivation.

Harvesting the Highland Treasure

Traditional Harvesting Methods

Harvesting shan tea requires special techniques due to the trees’ impressive height. Shan tuyet (or snow shan tea) is a special Vietnam-originated tea variety that has been around for hundreds of years, growing completely naturally on the plateaus and hills without any human impact. Harvesters must use ladders to reach the high branches, creating a spectacular sight of Hmong women in traditional colorful costumes climbing towering tea trees.

The harvesting season extends from March to October. During this period, each ancient tree yields approximately 16 kilograms of fresh tea buds per harvest. After processing, this produces about 3 kilograms of dried tea. With proper care, these trees can be harvested 4-5 times annually, potentially yielding up to one ton of dried tea per year.

Processing Excellence

The Hmong people process Tua Chua snow shan tea using traditional hand-drying methods. No pesticides or chemicals are used, ensuring the tea remains completely organic and safe. This careful processing preserves the tea’s natural green color and distinctive flavor profile.

Distinctive Flavor Profile of Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea

Sensory Experience

Tua Chua snow shan tea offers a complex tasting experience that reflects its mountain origins. When brewed, it produces a golden-amber liquor with a characteristic highland aroma. The initial taste presents a robust, slightly bitter flavor reminiscent of ancient forest leaves.

However, the true magic reveals itself in the aftertaste. After the initial slight bitterness fades, a distinctive sweetness emerges and lingers on the tongue. This unique flavor progression creates an unforgettable drinking experience that embodies the essence of the highland forest environment.

The tea’s aroma carries subtle hints of mountain vegetation, creating a sensory journey that connects drinkers to the pristine forests where these ancient trees grow. This complexity increases with the age of the trees, as older specimens produce more flavorful and aromatic tea.

Economic and Cultural Impact of Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea 

Modern Development

Since 2019, Tua Chua district has focused on developing tea as a key agricultural industry. The local government has implemented chain production models and supported product standardization. Many tea products have received organic certification and safe supply chain recognition.

The district actively promotes shan tea through trade fairs, media campaigns, and various marketing channels. These efforts help introduce this exceptional tea to domestic and international markets, creating opportunities for local communities.

Cultural Heritage

Tua Chua snow shan tea represents more than just a beverage; it embodies the cultural heritage of the Hmong people. The traditional harvesting and processing methods have been passed down through generations, preserving ancient knowledge and sustainable practices.

Why Choose Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea?

This exceptional tea offers numerous benefits for discerning tea enthusiasts. Its organic cultivation ensures purity and safety. The complex flavor profile provides a unique tasting experience unavailable in commercial teas. Additionally, purchasing shan tea supports local communities and helps preserve ancient tea forests.

The tea’s rarity and exceptional quality justify its premium pricing. Each cup represents centuries of natural cultivation and traditional craftsmanship, making it a truly special addition to any tea collection.

Quality and supply Tua Chua Snow Shan Tea

For authentic Tua Chua snow shan tea, Dien Bien Agri stands as the leading supplier of this premium product. Their commitment to quality ensures customers receive genuine ancient tea from the highland forests of Tua Chua district.

This products stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich tea heritage and the remarkable harmony between nature and traditional cultivation practices.

Read more: What is Tua Chua snow shan tea of Dien Bien Agri

Contact us for more information:

Tel/WhatsApp: +84.973.447.926.

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Add: Thanh Minh Commune, Dien Bien City, Vietnam

Factory: Bai Dai Village, Tien Xuan Commune, Thach That District, Ha Noi City, Vietnam