茶

The Tea Collection

Twenty years in China have transformed me in ways I could never have imagined. One small yet deeply meaningful example is the passion I’ve developed for tea. Over the years, I’ve created a fine collection of a variation of teas. These teas hold a special place in my heart, representing moments of discovery, connection, and inspiration.

In my daily life in Beijing, tea has become a constant companion. Whether it’s energizing a quiet morning, enhancing a conversation with a friend, or sparking ideas for my next artwork, there’s always a warm cup within reach.

As I celebrate two decades in China, I’m thrilled to share a part of this personal collection with you. I hope these teas offer not only their rich and nuanced flavors but also a glimpse into the beauty, warmth, and inspiration I’ve found in this incredible place.

Johannes Nielsen

I have carefully selected three different kinds of teas for The Tea Collection, featuring three varieties: Black Tea, Green Tea, and Oolong Tea. Each one reflects China’s rich tea traditions, as well as my own personal connection to China. Below you can read more about each tea.

Black Tea

红茶 (Hóngchá)

In the mornings when I need to feel invigorated and alert, I turn to this rich black tea. Its bold, robust flavor awakens my senses, while its warmth provides the perfect start to the day. Paired with the quiet stillness of a Beijing sunrise, drinking it has become my ritual for focus and energy.

This black tea is grown on Zhan Mountain (嶂山), situated at an altitude of 800 meters. The high altitude, fresh air, and natural environment help the tea leaves grow with great quality. The result is a tea with a rich flavor, smooth finish, and a connection to the mountain's peaceful beauty.

Recommended preparation:
100°C water/6 g. per liter water. Time: 6 minutes
(Or steep it how you feel is best—tea follows your intention.)*

Green Tea

绿茶 (Lǜchá)

This green tea is my wife’s favorite. She loves to enjoy it in the afternoon, savoring its fresh, vibrant flavor. It’s the perfect companion for a moment of calm, while also providing a gentle boost of energy to carry you through the rest of the day.

Our green tea comes from Wuyuan, nestled in the northeastern mountains of Jiangxi, at the heart of China’s green tea “Golden Triangle.” With abundant rainfall, high humidity, and frequent clouds and fog, this region produces exceptionally fresh tea leaves rich in amino acids. Renowned for tea since the Tang Dynasty, Wuyuan’s green tea has a rich history that continues to be celebrated today.

Recommended preparation:
80°C water / 10 g. per liter water. Time: 5 minutes.
(Or steep it how you feel is best—tea follows your intention.)*

Oolong Tea

乌龙茶 (Wūlóngchá)

This oolong tea has quickly become a new favorite of mine. Its complexity is truly captivating, offering layers of flavor with every sip. The magic lies in its balance—no matter how long you steep it, the tea never turns bitter, making it a perfect choice for leisurely brewing and enjoying.

This oolong tea comes from the renowned Wuyi Mountains in Fujian, China, a region celebrated for its exceptional teas. Sitting between green and black teas, oolong combines fresh, vibrant notes with a rich, smooth finish. Carefully roasted to enhance its depth, it offers a distinctive mineral flavor that reflects its unique origin in the rocky terrain.

Recommended preparation:
100°C water/6 g. per liter water. Time: 6 minutes
(Or steep it how you feel is best—tea follows your intention.)*

* 茶随人意 (chá suí rén yì)
“Tea follows the drinker’s intention.”

While there are recommended steeping times, I believe tea is best when it’s prepared your way. Sometimes I follow the guidelines, but often, I steep it longer or shorter depending on how I feel. The beauty of tea is its flexibility—it can adapt to you.