Phoenix Pearls

A Special Form of Jasmine Tea from China

Phoenix pearls are a special form of jasmine tea made in China. This variety is made from plucks that include two small leaves and a plump unopened leaf bud. These plucks are hand-rolled into balls (the pearls) and these are wrapped in silk mesh and dried by fire to maintain their shape. After being kept for several months, the dried tea pearls are exposed to jasmine flowers to infuse them with the flowery aroma.

It is interesting to watch when a Phoenix pearl is added to a cup of hot water; it unfurls dramatically, and releases rich floral and herbal aromas. The tea beverage is very similar to jasmine tea.