Xiao Qing Gan: The Refined Art of Pu-erh Tea Aged in Green Citrus Peel
Among the most exclusive treasures in the tea world, Xiao Qing Gan stands out as a jewel of flavor and tradition. This exquisite preparation, born in the provinces of Yunnan and Guangdong, fuses the power of aged Pu-erh tea with the aromatic essence of small, sun-dried green citrus fruits. The result is a deep, balanced, and complex infusion that captivates with both its organoleptic profile and its unique aesthetic.
Xiao Qing Gan is no ordinary tea: it's an experience. Each sphere of citrus peel contains Pu-erh leaves compressed and assembled with meticulous artisanal precision. Traditionally, green mandarin ( Citrus reticulata ) is used, but equally refined versions also exist made from green oranges or other citrus fruits selected for their aromatic properties and size. From mandarin , which contributes sweet and fragrant notes, to orange or even citrus fruits such as grapefruit or lemon , each variety brings its own unique character to the flavor of the tea, allowing you to enjoy different nuances, from the freshest and most acidic to the sweetest and deepest. It is a blend of times, climates, and ancestral knowledge.
One infusion, multiple ways to enjoy it
Xiao Qing Gan can be prepared in a variety of ways depending on the moment, your palate, and the ritual you wish to create. Below, we explore the most refined methods for fully enjoying this tea masterpiece.
Traditional Method
Cremonial Gong Fu
This traditional Chinese method allows you to appreciate each evolution of the tea over multiple infusions. It's recommended to use a porcelain gaiwan or a small Yixing clay teapot. Crack the shell slightly, or if you prefer, remove only one lid to leave the leaves inside. Use water at around 95°C and perform a brief infusion of 5 to 10 seconds to "awaken" the tea, which is then discarded. Continue with successive infusions of 10 to 20 seconds, appreciating how the aromatic profile opens: from fresh citrus notes, through nuances of damp earth and wood, to a sweet and silky finish.
Western Method
Infusion in a glass teapot
Ideal for those who prefer a more visual and leisurely preparation. Place the entire Xiao Qing Gan ball in the teapot and pour hot water at around 90-95°C. Let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. This version offers a more intense and continuous brew, perfect for sharing. As its contents slowly release, the tea transforms into a deep amber-colored beverage with a captivating aroma.
Direct infusion in a cup
For those who prefer a luxurious solo experience, carefully cut a piece of the tea husk with some of the tea inside and place it in a filter cup. Add hot water and let it steep for 3 to 4 minutes. It's a lighter, faster way to enter the world of Xiao Qing Gan , while retaining its elegance and distinctive character.
Cold brew iced tea
A refreshing and subtle option. Place half a sphere in a container with cold, filtered water and let it steep in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours. The result is a delicate tea with much more subtle floral and citrus nuances, ideal for the warmer months or for those seeking an aromatic experience without the intensity of hot Pu-erh.
The art of serving it
Regardless of which you choose to use, keep in mind that a tea like Xiao Qing Gan deserves a presentation worthy of its appeal. Use fine tableware, preferably in neutral or white tones, to enhance the color of the liquor (infusion). Pair it with small bites like dried fruit, nuts, or dark chocolates to highlight its complexity. Serving it in a calm environment, with soft music or in silence, transforms the tasting into a moment of sensory introspection.
Xiao Qing Gan tea is more than a brew: it's a bridge between cultures, a tribute to patience and mastery of time. Whether you prepare it Gong Fu style, in an elegant glass teapot, or as a cold brew, each sip connects you with a luxurious, contemplative, and deeply immersive tradition. Adding it to your tea collection is embracing the extraordinary.
Tea Domain is more than just a tea shop, and if you're interested in this and other tea experiences, we can arrange them for you.
