Brewing tea is an art that requires method. Even the finest tea cannot fully express its true flavor if brewed improperly. Only by following the correct brewing methods can one truly savor the authentic taste and enjoy a delicious cup of tea. So, how should White Tea be brewed to bring out its best?
How to Brew White Tea for Optimal Flavor? Techniques for Brewing White Tea!
1. Brewing Silver Needle:
When brewing Silver Needle white tea, there are two key points to consider: First, the tea buds are long and delicate, so the water temperature should not be too high, around 90 degrees Celsius is ideal; second, this premium white tea is covered in fine white down, so when Pouring hot water, avoid direct contact with the tea buds. Instead, pour the water along the side of the cup (or pot). This approach has two benefits: it protects the appearance of the tea buds and prevents the tea from becoming cloudy due to the release of too much down, which could affect the clarity and beauty of the tea's color. Although the Silver Needle tea leaves are slender and delicate, they are also plump and fleshy, allowing for a longer infusion time and making them very resistant to oversteeping, even after ten infusions, the tea still retains some flavor.
One secret to brewing Silver Needle is to never completely empty the cup or pot when serving the tea. Leave about one-third of the tea in the vessel. This ensures that subsequent infusions maintain the original character of the tea.
2. Brewing White Peony:
White Peony consists of a single bud with one or two leaves, featuring both delicate buds and robust leaves. The water temperature should not be too low, as this would prevent the full expression of the tea's flavor, but it should not be too high either, as this could damage the delicate buds. If using glassware, you can enjoy the visual appeal of the tea leaves unfurling in the water. Therefore, the ideal water temperature for brewing White Peony is between 90 and 100 degrees Celsius.
Other considerations are similar to those for brewing Silver Needle.
3. Brewing Tribute Eyebrow or Longevity Eyebrow:
Tribute Eyebrow and Longevity Eyebrow are primarily composed of tea leaves, with a coarse and rustic appearance. They have three notable qualities: their deep red and beautiful tea liquor, their rich and intense flavor, and their remarkable Health benefits. Therefore, the water temperature for brewing these teas can be above 100 degrees Celsius, and you can allow a longer steeping time. This will enable you to fully appreciate their most exquisite aspects.
4. Brewing New Process White Tea:
New Process White Tea is a newcomer in the family of white teas, distinguished by its unique processing method. Its flavor is rich and clear, reminiscent of the “aromatic richness” found in northern Fujian oolong teas. Therefore, this tea is best brewed using the Gongfu method.
5. Brewing Aged Tea Cakes:
Aged tea cakes are compressed, making them tightly packed. Due to their extended storage period, they undergo natural fermentation, resulting in a unique and robust flavor profile. Water temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius are required to fully reveal their true character.
Different Years, Different Brewing Methods:
1. Brewing New Tea:
New teas tend to be tender, with fresh and vibrant dry leaves. Therefore, it's best to use a quick brewing method and pour out the tea as soon as possible. This allows you to appreciate the pure and exquisite flavors of the new tea.
2. Brewing Aged Tea:
To enjoy aged white tea, it is recommended to use a large-bellied purple clay Teapot and water at 100 degrees Celsius, waiting patiently for one and a half minutes before pouring out the tea. If you can use spring water from Fuding, it would be even better. The spacious teapot allows the leaves to fully expand, releasing the flavors of the white down on the leaf surfaces and buds. The process is lively and full of interest. The aroma and honey-like sweetness are naturally sweet and pure, reflecting the true essence of the tea. It's like being in a primeval forest, breathing in the fresh air, feeling relaxed and serene, with a sense of tranquility and distance.