Shu Yinzǐ tea is a unique and precious Pu'er tea, whose compressed tea bricks break apart like silver pieces, hence the name “Shu Yinzǐ tea.” This tea not only has a distinctive appearance but also boasts a Taste that lingers in the memory. So, how can you correctly brew a cup of fragrant Shu Yinzǐ tea? This article will detail the brewing method for Shu Yinzǐ tea, allowing you to easily enjoy its deliciousness at home.
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What Is Shu Yinzǐ Tea?
Shu Yinzǐ tea, also known as Silver tea, is a Pu'er tea that undergoes special processing. It typically exists in the form of tightly compressed tea bricks with a smooth surface and tiny leaves resembling broken silver. After long-term fermentation and aging, this tea possesses a rich aroma and deep flavor, making it a treasured item among Pu'er enthusiasts.
Preparations for Brewing Shu Yinzǐ Tea
Before brewing Shu Yinzǐ tea, we need to prepare some tools and materials:
- Shu Yinzǐ tea: Choose an appropriate amount based on personal taste, generally around 5 grams.
- Teaware: A purple clay pot or white porcelain Gaiwan is recommended, as these teawares better preserve the tea's aroma and mouthfeel.
- Water: Use mineral water or purified water; good quality water enhances the flavor of the tea.
- Tea cloth and tea spoon: For cleaning and handling the tea.
Brewing Steps for Shu Yinzǐ Tea
The steps for brewing Shu Yinzǐ tea are not complicated, but each step requires careful attention:
1. Washing the Tea
Place 5 grams of Shu Yinzǐ tea into a teapot or gaiwan and pour boiling water (approximately 95°C) over it to wash the tea. The purpose of washing the tea is to remove dust and impurities from the surface of the leaves and to awaken their aroma. The washing time should not be too long, usually 5-10 seconds, after which the washing water should be quickly discarded.
2. First Infusion
Immediately after washing the tea, proceed with the first infusion. Pour boiling water (95°C) over the tea, ensuring the water covers the leaves. Place the lid on the teaware and let it steep for 10-15 seconds. Once the time is up, pour the tea liquor into a pitcher and then into tea cups for tasting. The tea liquor from the first infusion is lighter in color but already reveals its aroma.
3. Second Infusion
The second infusion uses boiling water (95°C) again, letting it steep for 15-20 seconds. As the number of infusions increases, the color of the tea liquor gradually deepens and the flavor becomes richer. Pour the tea liquor into the pitcher and then into tea cups for tasting.
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4. Subsequent Infusions
Shu Yinzǐ tea has a strong capacity for multiple infusions, typically up to 8-10 times. The steeping time for each subsequent infusion can gradually increase by 5-10 seconds. Each infusion allows you to savor different layers of aroma and flavor changes.
Tasting Experience of Shu Yinzǐ Tea
The tea liquor of Shu Yinzǐ tea is bright and red, with a rich aroma that includes aged and fruity notes. Upon tasting, the tea liquor is full-bodied and slightly sweet, with a lingering aftertaste. Each infusion offers a different sensory experience, making it a tea well-suited for savoring slowly.
Storage Method for Shu Yinzǐ Tea
To maintain the quality of Shu Yinzǐ tea, the storage method is important. It is recommended to store the tea in a cool, dry, and ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and dampness. Additionally, using a purple clay jar or ceramic jar for sealed storage further preserves the aroma and mouthfeel of the tea.
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Health benefits of Shu Yinzǐ Tea
Shu Yinzǐ tea is not only delicious but also has various health benefits. It contains abundant tea polyphenols, caffeine, and other substances, which have antioxidant, refreshing, and digestive properties. Drinking an appropriate amount of Shu Yinzǐ tea regularly is greatly beneficial to your health.
Conclusion
As a treasure among Pu'er teas, Shu Yinzǐ tea not only has a distinctive appearance but also a taste that is unforgettable. Through correct brewing methods and careful tasting, you can easily enjoy this delightful tea beverage at home. We hope this introduction helps you better understand and savor the deliciousness of Shu Yinzǐ tea.