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Taiwan’s Indigenous “Tea Champagne” – A Tribal Brew of Kombucha
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◎Written by Winnie
◎Translation by Lin Yu-ciao
◎Photos by Carter ◎Photo courtesy of JANKOMBU
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Photo by Carter
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Du Bao-jhen(杜寶珍), from Baoshan tribal community in Kaohsiung’s Taoyuan District, brews a refreshing sweet-and-sour kombucha using Taiwan’s native mountain tea. By combining traditional brewing techniques with stylish packaging, she has created the local Kaohsiung brand JANKOMBU(珍康普茶).
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Photo by Carter
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Over 60 years ago, Du’s grandfather cultivated Taiwan’s indigenous mountain tea on the family’s land. Wanting to ease her aging parents’ burden, she resigned as a registered professional nurse. She returned home, embracing eco-friendly farming practices while creatively promoting the tribe’s high-quality native tea.
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Photo by Carter
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Du Bao-jhen uses wild-grown mountain tea from her family’s Hanaku(哈娜谷)tea garden. Small batches of the tea are carefully hand-picked, blanched, and rolled before undergoing a natural fermentation process. The result is a delicate, champagne-like kombucha. “The original intention behind this brand was to support Kaohsiung’s local, indigenous mountain tea. Every sip of kombucha is a show of support for small local farmers,” she says.
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Photo by Carter
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JANKOMBU infuses tribal ingredients into its flavors, offering Classic Original, Makauy Lemon Ginger, Osmanthus Ailanthus Prickly Ash, and Rose Hibiscus Fruit kombucha. For first-time drinkers, she recommends taking a small sip to appreciate the full flavor before diluting with water. Adding a shot of espresso creates a unique taste reminiscent of Sicilian coffee, while mixing it with light beer transforms it into a fruity cocktail. With its diverse flavors, JANKOMBU promises a delightful surprise with every sip.
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Photo courtesy of JANKOMBU
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JANKOMBU Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/jankombucha2020/?locale=zh_TW
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