Old Bingdao tea, a precious Pu'er tea from Yunnan Province, has captured the hearts of countless tea enthusiasts with its unique aroma and rich flavor. While many have heard of its reputation, few truly understand and master its brewing method. Today, let's unveil the mysteries of Old Bingdao tea together and learn how to brew it correctly to fully appreciate its distinctive charm.
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Preparation: Choosing Suitable Teaware
Choosing suitable teaware is crucial when brewing Old Bingdao tea. Gaiwans or purple clay pots are recommended as they better restore the tea's aroma and Taste. Gaiwans are suitable for beginners and transparent glass gaiwans allow you to admire the color of the tea liquor. Purple clay pots are more suited to tea enthusiasts with some experience in tea art, as they enhance the tea's taste profile, but note that new purple clay pots need to be seasoned before use.
Water Quality and Temperature Selection
In the art of tea, “water is the mother of tea,” and good water quality can greatly enhance the quality of the tea. When brewing Old Bingdao tea, it is recommended to use soft water such as mineral water or purified water, avoiding hard water or tap water, which can affect the taste of the tea liquor due to impurities. Water temperature is also important; since Old Bingdao tea is a type of Pu'er tea, the water temperature should generally be controlled around 95°C. Too high a temperature can destroy the internal substances within the leaves, while too low a temperature will not fully release the tea's aroma.
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Mastering the Amount of Tea Leaves
Brewing tea follows the principle of “prefer light over strong,” especially for the richly flavored Old Bingdao tea, where the amount of tea leaves must be properly measured. Generally, using a ratio of 3-5 grams of tea per 100 milliliters of water is appropriate. The specific amount can be adjusted according to personal preference; those who prefer stronger tea can use more leaves, while those who prefer lighter tea can use less.
Detailed Brewing Steps
- Warm the Utensils: Rinse the Gaiwan or purple clay pot with boiling water to clean and heat them, which also helps improve the taste of the tea liquor.
- Place the Tea: Place an appropriate amount of Old Bingdao tea into the gaiwan or purple clay pot based on its size.
- Rinse the Tea: Pour off the first infusion quickly; this step, known as rinsing the tea, removes surface impurities and awakens the leaves to better release their aroma.
- Brew: For the second infusion, pour water evenly so that it flows over the leaves without directly hitting them. After pouring, cover and let sit for 10-20 seconds before decanting the tea liquor.
- Serve: Pour the tea liquor into a sharing pitcher and then distribute it into tasting cups, avoiding further steeping in the cup, which can affect the taste.
- Taste: Lift the cup, smell the aroma first, then savor the unique flavor of Old Bingdao tea, taking small sips.
Tasting the Unique Flavor of Old Bingdao Tea
The appeal of Old Bingdao tea lies in its rich and layered taste and its long-lasting aftertaste. Initially, you'll sense a fresh aroma, followed by the richness of the tea liquor, and finally, a lingering sweetness in the throat, leaving a lasting impression. Old Bingdao tea has a unique aroma with notes of honey and flowers, immersing you in the embrace of nature.
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Storing Old Bingdao Tea Techniques
Old Bingdao tea becomes more fragrant with age, but improper storage can affect its quality. It is recommended to store the tea in a dry, shaded, and well-ventilated place, away from high temperatures and humidity. Using airtight ceramic jars or purple clay jars can better preserve the aroma and taste of the tea.
Tea Tasting as a Lifestyle
Drinking Tea is not just about taste, but also a lifestyle. In the midst of a busy life, brewing a pot of Old Bingdao tea and quietly savoring its aroma, feeling the joy brought by the tea liquor, is a rare pleasure. By using the correct brewing methods, you can better appreciate the unique flavors of Old Bingdao tea, making each cup a delightful experience.
Conclusion
With its distinctive flavor and long history, Old Bingdao tea is a treasure among teas. By learning the correct brewing methods, you can not only enjoy its delicious taste but also experience the tea culture embedded within. In the aromatic moments, enjoy tranquility and beauty, a simple yet precious happiness in life. Hopefully, this article will help you find your own unique tea essence in the process of brewing Old Bingdao tea.