Sun Moon Lake Black Tea is a large-leaf black tea grown around Yuchi and Sun Moon Lake in Nantou, made from large-leaf shoots that are rolled and fully oxidized. Steep a pot and the liquor turns amber-bright; lean in and Ruby's signature mint-and-cinnamon fragrance rises to meet you, yet the taste itself is full-bodied and round, with no bitterness — a streak of red born from the lake's embrace.
According to Taiwan's National Cultural Heritage Database, the 'Yuchi Black Tea Experimental Sub-Station' was established on Mount Maolan in Yuchi Township in 1936 during the Japanese colonial era, introducing large-leaf Assam cultivars from India; the site, after several administrative reorganizations, is today the Yuchi Branch of the Tea and Beverage Research Station. Its signature cultivar, Taiwan Tea No. 18 'Ruby,' was developed at this branch and officially registered in 1999.
What is Sun Moon Lake Black Tea?
Sun Moon Lake Black Tea is a large-leaf black tea grown in the Yuchi and Sun Moon Lake area of Nantou. In 1936, Japanese authorities established a tea research station in Yuchi and introduced large-leaf Assam cultivars from India, cementing this region as the core production zone for Taiwan's large-leaf black teas. The warm, humid microclimate around the lake is ideal for large-leaf varieties.
The most iconic expression is Taiwan Tea No. 18 'Ruby' (Hongyu), developed by the Tea Research and Extension Station's Yuchi Branch from a cross between a Myanmar large-leaf variety and Taiwan's native wild mountain tea. It carries a distinctive mint-and-cinnamon fragrance, a vivid red liquor, and a mellow, harmonious flavour. Together with the traditional Assam and Taiwan Tea No. 8, Ruby forms a flavourful and instantly recognizable family of Sun Moon Lake black teas.
How to drink it the authentic way
Local knowledge
Verified facts (sponsored content excluded)
- The 1936 establishment of a tea research station in Yuchi and the introduction of large-leaf Assam cultivars from India are documented facts about the origin of this production zone.
- Taiwan Tea No. 18 'Ruby' was developed by the Tea Research and Extension Station's Yuchi Branch — it is an official breeding achievement, not a marketing claim.
- Yuchi and Sun Moon Lake form the core production zone for Taiwan's large-leaf black teas. This guide is organized by tea variety; the Farmers' Association tea hall is noted only for location reference and future on-site photography.
Visitor tips
- Ruby (Taiwan Tea No. 18), Assam, and Taiwan Tea No. 8 each taste distinctly different. Check the cultivar number before buying to avoid picking the wrong one.
- There are many vendors around the lake. For purchasing, look for official channels such as the Yuchi Township Farmers' Association or packaging that clearly states the place of origin.
- Coordinates are approximate field-survey values. Actual tea zone boundaries and shop addresses should be confirmed on-site.
Information compiled from the Nantou County Government tourism resources and local township farmers' associations. Sponsored content has been excluded. Photos will be replaced after on-site photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Sun Moon Lake become a black tea production zone?
In 1936, Japanese authorities established a tea research station on Mount Maolan in Yuchi and introduced large-leaf Assam cultivars from India; the area's warm, humid climate suited large-leaf tea, cementing it as Taiwan's core large-leaf black tea zone.
When was Ruby black tea named?
Ruby, or Taiwan Tea No. 18, was bred at the Tea Research and Extension Station's Yuchi Branch from a cross of Myanmar large-leaf tea and Taiwan's native wild mountain tea, and was officially registered in 1999.
What is the authentic way to drink Sun Moon Lake Black Tea?
Brew it with hot water and avoid over-steeping; try it plain first to taste Ruby's signature mint-and-cinnamon notes, then add milk or lemon if you prefer.
Sources
- 行政院農業委員會茶業改良場魚池分場 — 國家文化資產網（文化部）記載1936年設立魚池紅茶試驗支所之官方沿革
- 臺茶18號 — 茶及飲料作物改良場官方頁面，確認紅玉(台茶18號)親本與1999年命名