Ningqiang Sparrow’s Tongue Tea

Ningqiang Sparrow’s Tongue

Ningqiang Sparrow’s Tongue is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Geographical Scope

　　　Produced from superior tea tree varieties cultivated at altitudes of 600–1200 meters in sixteen townships within Ningqiang County, Shaanxi Province, including Han Yuan, Gaozhaizi, Hujia ba, Tiesuoguan, Qingmuchuan, Guangping, Yanzibian, Yangpingguan, Da’an, Daijiaba, Bashan, Anlehe, Shujiaba, Huangbayi, Kuanchuan, and Nanping.

　　Distinctive Qualities

　　　　Ningqiang Sparrow’s Tongue is a flat-shaped premium tea developed in Ningqiang, Shaanxi. It features a slightly flat, elegant shape, vibrant green color, visible silvery tips, and a form resembling a sparrow’s tongue. The liquor is bright green, with a long-lasting, rich aroma and a mellow, refreshing, and sweet taste. The leaves are tender, green, and intact. Rich in tea polyphenols, amino acids, vitamins, caffeine, trace elements, and other beneficial substances, it is an excellent choice for both drinking and wellness. Named after both its appearance and origin, it is widely referred to as “Ningqiang Sparrow’s Tongue.”

　　Cultural Anecdote

　　　　The Tang Dynasty’s Lu Yu wrote in the Classic of Tea: “Tea trees grow in the valleys of Xicheng and Ankang counties (present-day Ankang) in Jinzhou, and in the valleys of Baocheng and Jinniu (present-day Ningqiang) in Liangzhou (present-day Hanzhong).” While tea has a long history here, it was not until 1993 that “Ningqiang Sparrow’s Tongue” was developed and gained fame. Named for its resemblance to a sparrow’s tongue, the tea has an annual output of around 500 tons, which is in high demand, serving as something of a calling card for Ningqiang.