Satemwa Zomba Pearls White Tea from Malawi

This very unique, rare white tea from Malawi is unlike any tea you’ve ever seen. Individual leaves are hand rolled into cocoons resembling olive green "pearls."  Satemwa Estate is the only estate in the world to produce this innovative white tea. Just like the jewel for which they are named, Zomba Pearl's liquor is rich, luscious and buttery smooth. The aroma of the dry leaf is rich and tart, while that of the infusion is reminiscent of freshly baked lemon meringue. Its captivating flavor is highlighted by naturally sweet, light floral notes tempered with subtle grassy tones. Technically, a white tea is plucked and left to wither and dry in the sun. Nothing is done to stop it, so there is always some degree of oxidation. The artisans at Satemwa have taken things a step farther in hand rolling the leaves. So, is it still a white tea? The Chinese would say no, and you may find this tea sold elsewhere as a green tea. In my opinion, it is delicious and "a rose by any other name....." Ingre