Biluochun tea, one of China's top ten famous teas, is beloved by tea enthusiasts for its unique fragrance and sweet aftertaste. However, to truly bring out the deliciousness of Biluochun, it's crucial to master the correct brewing method. Today, we'll discuss how to brew a cup of fragrant and rich Biluochun tea using the simplest methods.
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What is Biluochun Tea?
Biluochun tea is produced in Dongting Mountain, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China. This tea is named for its early picking time, tender leaves, and slender curled shape. Biluochun tea is known as “Terrifyingly Fragrant” because of the intense aroma it emits during the stir-frying process, which is intoxicating.
Selecting High-Quality Biluochun Tea
To brew good tea, you must first choose good tea leaves. High-quality Biluochun tea has tightly twisted, fine strands with visible white down and a bright green color. It should have a noticeable floral and fruity fragrance, and the tea liquor should be clear and bright. Purchasing from reputable brands and channels ensures the freshness and quality of the tea.
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Preparing Tools and Water
The tools for brewing tea can include glass cups, white porcelain bowls with lids, or purple clay Teapots. Glass cups are particularly recommended because they allow you to appreciate the beautiful unfurling of the tea leaves in the water. The quality of water used for brewing is also very important; it is best to use mineral water or filtered pure water, with the temperature controlled around 80°C.
Brewing Biluochun Tea
The process of brewing Biluochun tea is not complicated, but each step requires care.
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Warming the Cup and Moistening the Tea
First, warm the tea utensils with hot water to maintain a stable water temperature. Then place about 3 grams of Biluochun tea into the cup.
Adding Tea and Pouring Water
Pour a small amount of 80°C hot water over the tea to moisten it, then gently swirl the cup to let the tea absorb the water and begin to unfurl. Next, slowly pour more hot water until the cup is about seven to eight-tenths full. This process is called “moistening the tea,” which allows the tea's aroma to fully release.
Steeping and Tasting
Let the tea steep in the water for 1-2 minutes to fully unfurl. At this point, the tea's fragrance fills the air, and the tea liquor is clear and bright, ready for tasting. The first infusion has a refreshing Taste, but it's best not to Drink it too quickly. Instead, savor its fragrance and sweet aftertaste. The second and third infusions will have a richer flavor.
Storing Biluochun Tea
The storage of tea is also crucial. Biluochun tea should be stored in a cool, dry, dark, and odorless environment. It's best to use containers with good sealing properties, such as metal cans or ceramic jars, to prevent the tea from coming into prolonged contact with air and oxidizing.
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Benefits and Effects of Biluochun Tea
Biluochun tea is not only delicious but also offers many benefits and effects. It is rich in tea polyphenols and vitamin C, which have antioxidant, fat-lowering, and invigorating effects. Long-term consumption of Biluochun tea can also help improve digestive function and enhance immunity.
Tips for Brewing Biluochun Tea
The water temperature for brewing should not be too high, with around 80°C being most suitable, as this helps retain the tea's fragrance and freshness. The brewing time should not be too long, with 1-2 minutes for the first infusion, and subsequent infusions can be slightly longer. Adjust the amount of tea and brewing time according to personal taste when drinking.
Conclusion
Brewing Biluochun tea isn't complicated; as long as you master the skills of selecting tea, using water, and brewing, you can easily enjoy its wonderful taste. We hope that through this guide, everyone can brew a perfect cup of Biluochun tea and experience the unique charm of this famous tea.