Fuzhuan Dark Tea

Fuzhuan Tea, a distinctive product within the category of dark teas, boasts a rich and fascinating history spanning over six centuries. Originating in the northwest regions of China, particularly in the areas inhabited by nomadic tribes such as Kazakhs and Mongolians, Fuzhuan Tea was originally crafted during the hot and humid summer days, earning it the name "Fu Tea" due to its processing during the Fushun period (a period of high heat and humidity). Over time, the name was altered to "Fuzhuan Tea" because of its similarities in effect to the medicinal plant known as Poria cocos, colloquially referred to as "Tufuling."

Historically, Fuzhuan Tea was produced exclusively in Jingyang, Shaanxi Province, where it was manufactured under official licenses and sold through government channels, earning it the additional names of "Guancha" (official tea) and "Fucha" (government tea). However, in 1958, due to considerations of cost-effectiveness and transportation efficiency, the National Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation of China reassigned the production of Fuzhuan Tea bricks to Hunan Province, specifically Yiyang City, while maintaining Jingyang as a co-producer. Today, Fuzhuan Tea is celebrated worldwide for its unique fermentation process, distinctive taste, and numerous health benefits.

Legends and Stories

The name "Fuzhuan Tea" itself is steeped in folklore. Legend has it that during the Tang and Song Dynasties, tea was tightly controlled by the imperial government and traded primarily for horses with nomadic tribes in the northwest. Merchants who transported tea to the tea and horse bureau (Chama Si) were rewarded with additional tea known as "Fu Cha" (initially meaning "attached tea" as a reward), a term that eventually evolved into "Fuzhuan Tea" through a phonetic change.

Another intriguing tale revolves around the development of the unique "golden flowers" (Guantruchangxian), a beneficial fungus that grows naturally within well-aged Fuzhuan Tea. Locals believed that these golden blooms signified the highest quality and purity of the tea, leading to the saying, "Good tea blossoms gold flowers, and abundant flowers signify superior tea."

Cultural Significance

Fuzhuan Tea holds immense cultural significance in China, particularly among the nomadic communities of the northwest. It was not only a vital commodity for daily consumption but also a symbol of trade and cultural exchange between the Han Chinese and the nomadic tribes. The tea's unique processing methods, including its fermentation and the growth of the golden flowers, have been passed down through generations, preserving ancient tea-making techniques and fostering a profound respect for tradition.

Furthermore, Fuzhuan Tea played a crucial role in the economic development of regions like Jingyang and Yiyang, where the tea industry flourished, bringing prosperity and jobs to local communities. The tea also served as a bridge, connecting people from diverse backgrounds through the shared experience of savoring its rich, full-bodied flavor.

Modern Appreciation

In modern times, Fuzhuan Tea has transcended its traditional boundaries, becoming a cherished beverage among tea enthusiasts worldwide. Its unique flavor profile, which combines earthy notes with hints of sweetness and a smooth aftertaste, appeals to a broad audience. Moreover, the numerous health benefits associated with Fuzhuan Tea, such as aiding digestion, promoting weight loss, and regulating blood sugar levels, have further increased its popularity.

The art of preparing and enjoying Fuzhuan Tea has also evolved, with methods ranging from traditional boiling in copper kettles to contemporary brewing techniques using electric kettles and temperature-controlled tea sets. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with friends and family, Fuzhuan Tea continues to be a symbol of hospitality, community, and the rich tapestry of Chinese tea culture.

In conclusion, Fuzhuan Tea, with its rich history, intriguing legends, profound cultural significance, and modern appreciation, stands as a testament to the enduring charm of Chinese tea culture and its ability to transcend time and boundaries.

Shipping Methods, Duration Estimates & Fees

1. Shipping Methods

4px as our logistics partner to ship out AllenTeas products. They will choose the carrier that they think works best for our customers.

Where does AllenTeas ship to? For tea products, the following countries can be shipped：

United States, Russia, New Zealand, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, Austria, Belgium, Poland, Denmark, Germany, France, Finland, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Norway, Portugal, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Thailand, Turkey, Spain, Greece, Singapore, Hungary, Italy, Indonesia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, Cyprus, Egypt, Georgia, Malta, South Africa, Croatia, Slovenia, Latvia, Slovakia, Romania, Serbia, Chile, Belarus, Estonia, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, India, Myanmar, Colombia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova

Delivery Scope Notes:

United States: Mainland, all territories outside the mainland, and overseas military postal addresses.
United Kingdom: Mainland and the Channel Islands, Isle of Man.
France: Mainland only, postal codes starting with 01-95. Delivery to overseas territories is not available, including Corsica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, Réunion, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Mayotte.
Other countries: Mainland only.

2. Duration Estimates

The expected delivery time is between 8 to 25 days for most countries, unless stated otherwise during checkout.

Fulfillment time takes 1-4 Business Days.

Total transit time is: Fulfillment time(1-4 business days) + Transit Time(8-25 days).

3. Fees

We offer free shipping for orders over $59.
For orders below $59, the flat rate is $9.9.

Note: We always work hard to dispatch your order as fast as possible (usually the next working day), but we can’t control delays due to custom clearance (especially during the shopping high season). When you place an order, please take into account the possibility for delays.

Order Processing Speed

All products offered in our online store are in stock unless stated otherwise. Thus, orders are processed usually the next business day. Orders placed during the weekend are processed on Monday.

Unfortunately, in rare cases products may run out of stock. In such situations, we'll have to wait for restocking and it may take 2-4 working days to process your order.

Shipping Confirmation with Trace & Trace Number 

All orders are packed with care to guarantee safe delivery. When your order is dispatched, we'll send you a shipping confirmation the next day by email, which includes an online tracking number. If you haven't received your shipping confirmation, please check if it landed in your junk folder.

All parcels can be tracked on the Track your Order page. Once your parcel has arrived in your country, you may also use the tracking number on the website of your local post.

Customs

From 1 July 2021, the Valued-Added Tax (VAT) on cross-border business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce activities in the European Union (EU) has to be applied on all goods that are sold online to EU.

For most non-EU countries you don't have to pay any taxes when receiving the parcel. However, sometimes local authorities may require you to pay custom taxes. As an importer, you're responsible for paying customs taxes and import fees if the arise.

For many EU countries, we've started offering tax inclusive shipping, meaning you don't have to pay tax when you receive the parcel. Taxes are included, if its stated in the selected shipping method.

Country Specific Information

South Korea:For shipping to South Korea please make sure you mobile phone number is correct as this will be used for identification purposes at the customs. Ideally, please also fill in a Personal Customs Clearance Code in the VAT field of the address details. For more information about personal custom clearance code you can visit this page on customs.go.kr.

Brazil: For shipments to Brazil it's mandatory to add your personal Tax number to your shipping details. You may fill your tax number in the second address line or the company name field.

Japan: For shipments to Japan it's mandatory to provide the shipping address in Japanese language.

Türkiye: Personal ID number (tax number) is required. You may fill your tax number in the second address line or the company name field.