Named for its distinctive appearance, resembling tiny pellets of gun-powder, this is a classic Chinese green tea known for its robust, smoky flavour and fresh, vegetal notes. The tightly rolled leaves help preserve the tea's aroma and flavour, releasing a rich, full-bodied taste with hints of earthiness and a subtle sweetness when brewed. A perfect companion for crisp autumn mornings.

How to serve

Use one teaspoon of gunpowder tea per cup of water. Heat the water to below boiling (about 80°C) to avoid bitterness and steep the tea for two to three minutes. The leaves will unfurl, releasing their complex flavours and a golden-green liquor. Enjoy it plain or with a touch of honey or mint.

Where to buy

Gunpowder tea can be purchased from speciality tea shops, high-end grocery stores and online retailers such as Whittard of Chelsea, where 100g is £9.50 (01993 223733; www.whittard. com). Look for premium, loose-leaf options to experience the full depth of this timeless tea.

Jonathon Jones discovers teas from around the world, finds new flavours and cultivation techniques, and takes English tea to Asia.