Gunpowder Green & Mint

Welcome to Twinings Tea Taster classes – for this month’s edition we are exploring Gunpowder Green & Mint.

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A premium loose mint flavoured green tea from the Zhejiang province in South East China.

What Is It?

Gunpowder Green & Mint tea is a blend of Chinese green tea and peppermint leaves (Mentha Piperita). The green tea is from Zhejiang province in South East China. Its English name 'gunpowder' is owed to the fact that the leaves are tightly rolled into little pearls which look like pellets of gunpowder. At the end of the manufacturing process the pellets are blended with peppermint leaves.

A crisp green tea is created as the pellet unfurls with a golden liquor, infused with a hint of mint to make a refreshing and clean taste.

When you smell and taste your tea, why not use the Twinings flavour wheel and see what aromas and tastes you come up with. First of all, before your nostrils come close to the tea liquor, just smell the back of your hand as this helps to cleanse your palette.

Where Is It From?

This tea has been sourced by Master Tea Blender/Buyer. Andrew Whittingham.

Andrew has travelled all over the world sourcing teas, herbs and spices. His blends reflect the memories of those travels and the people he met.

What do you love about your job?

Two things stand out for me: tasting tea is a real delight, and meeting with the various producers who have a real passion for their teas.

How did you learn all about the intricacies and flavours of tea?

Much of the tea knowledge and understanding is passed down from generation to generation of tea buyers – I have learnt from fellow tea buyers, but also from spending many years travelling the world talking and tasting with farmers, tea producers and tea tasters. Tasting at origin with the people that nurture the plants really helps you understand the care and passion that goes into producing a great tasting tea.

Master Tea Blender/Buyer. Andrew Whittingham.

How to Prepare Gunpowder Green & Mint

To make the perfect cup of Gunpowder Green & Mint tea, simply follow these steps:

• Add one teaspoon per person and one for the pot.

• Pour freshly boiled water (80°C) over the leaves and brew for 2 minutes or longer if you prefer a more intense flavour.

• Always serve this tea without milk.

If you'd like to see the magic unfurl, we recommend using a glass teapot.

Tasting Notes and Flavour Wheel: Look | Smell | Taste

Gunpowder Green tea has a tight, well rolled leaf that can have a bluish shine to the outside. The delicate mint leaves are emerald green and have a strong aroma of peppermint. The appearance of the brewed liquor is bright with good clarity and green in colour. Expect a grassy and very refreshing, cooling minty taste with a clean and dry finish.

Cold Serve Tip

This Gunpowder Green & Mint tea is perfect for any occasion and is equally delicious when served cold. Simply mix the brewed tea with honey or agave nectar and refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice and garnish with mint leaves.