Seven Sons Congratulating

Seven Sons Congratulating comes from northern Fujian Province, where blooming teas have long been crafted to mark life's most celebratory moments. This one commemorates a particularly joyful occasion: the birth of seven sons. Mike only has three, so he can only imagine the delight of four more.

Drop the small bundle of green and white leaves into hot water and watch it slowly unfurl into a red flower encircled by a ring of jasmine blooms, almost like a small crown. It's one of those teas that's as much a pleasure to watch as it is to drink.

The brew itself is gentle and light, with a pale, warm liquor and a delicate sweetness layered with soft floral notes. If you're used to bolder greens, consider this tea to be the quieter, more contemplative end of the spectrum. It's the kind of tea you pour for a guest you want to impress or simply for yourself on an afternoon when you have a moment to pay attention.