Vilgain Green Tea White Monkey – delicate green tea from young leaves and buds with a high proportion of white tips

Vilgain White Monkey (Bai Mao Hou) is a higher grade of Chinese green tea originating from the mountain tea gardens of Guangxi province. It is hand-picked early in the spring and made from the youngest, still unopened leaves and fine buds of the Camellia sinensis tea plant. It is characterized by a high proportion of white, downy tips, which give it a delicate, sweet flavor with notes of fruit, herbs, and nuts.

Rare tea with a legend

According to Chinese legend, tea for local monks was picked by mountain monkeys – hence its name “White Monkey.” In reality, however, the name refers to the shape of the delicately curled leaves, which after drying resemble little monkey paws. Harvesting is very demanding and takes place only during a short period in early spring.

Processing in line with tradition

The harvesting and production of White Monkey require exceptional precision. After picking, the leaves are left to wilt, gently heated to stop oxidation, and hand-shaped into a delicately curved form. They are then slowly dried at a low temperature to preserve the tea’s characteristic white down, fresh aroma, and delicate taste.

Harmonious taste with a fruity profile

Unlike teas such as Gunpowder, which is rolled into pellets and has a stronger, more pronounced flavor, White Monkey is delicately curled and offers a refined profile with a sweet undertone. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy a cup of tea any time of day. It can also be prepared as a gentle ice tea.

Unique profile of tea leaves

The young leaves and buds of White Monkey contain L‑theanine. The fine white down, known as trichomes, contains aromatic oils that, when infused, release delicate floral and herbal notes.

Suggested Use

Use 7 g of tea per 500 ml of water at a temperature of 75–80 °C and steep for 1–2 minutes. Can be infused multiple times.

For ice tea: prepare the tea as usual, then chill rapidly to preserve the delicate flavors.

Vilgain Green Tea White Monkey at a glance:

• higher grade Chinese green tea from Guangxi province
• hand-picked from the youngest buds and fine leaves
• limited spring harvest – short picking period for maximum quality
• traditional processing to preserve aroma, flavor, and nutrients
• high proportion of white downy tips – delicate, sweet flavor
• contains L‑theanine
• suitable for preparing ice tea as well