Yuqian
Definition
Chinese teas plucked before the Guyu (Grain Rain) solar term in late April, the second-tier spring grade after mingqian. Yuqian leaves are slightly larger and more abundant than mingqian.
Why it matters
Yuqian, literally before the rain, refers to leaves picked between the Qingming festival and the Guyu solar term, which falls around April 19 to 21. As temperatures warm, buds grow more quickly and pickers gather larger, more developed leaves, often one-bud-two-leaf sets rather than single buds. Yuqian harvests are larger and more affordable than mingqian, while still capturing the freshness and balance of early spring growth. For many practical drinkers, yuqian represents the sweet spot between price and quality for premium Chinese greens. The term is commonly used in describing Longjing, Biluochun, Maofeng, and other classical greens, often appearing on packaging as a quality and timing indicator. After Guyu, picking continues for some teas but typically falls into less prestigious grades.