What is Pu'er Tea Fossil?
The Pu'er tea fossil is a special form of ripe Pu'er tea, named for its appearance resembling stone. It is made through a unique fermentation and compression process, possessing a distinctive aged aroma and rich flavor. Not only does the tea fossil perform well during brewing, but it is also favored by tea enthusiasts for its convenient storage and portability.
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Preparations for Brewing Pu'er Tea Fossil
Before officially starting the brewing process, it is important to prepare the following tools and materials:
- Teapot or Gaiwan: Preferably use a purple clay teapot or gaiwan, as this can better preserve and enhance the aroma and taste of the tea fossil.
- Teacups: Choose small to medium-sized cups, which are convenient for appreciating the changes in each infusion.
- Tea cloth and tray: To keep the tea table tidy and facilitate handling.
- Six Gentlemen of Tea: Auxiliary tools such as tea tongs and tea scoops.
How to Brew Pu'er Tea Fossil?
The steps for brewing Pu'er tea fossil may seem complex, but they are not difficult once you grasp the essentials.
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Washing the Tea
Due to its tightly compressed structure, the tea fossil requires washing before brewing. This not only removes dust from the surface of the leaves but also awakens their inherent aroma and flavor.
- Place an appropriate amount of tea fossil (usually 5-8 grams) into the teapot or gaiwan.
- Pour boiling water over the tea, quickly swirl for a few seconds, then discard. This process can be repeated twice to ensure the tea is fully awakened.
Main Brewing
After washing the tea, you can proceed with the main brewing. The specific steps are as follows:
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- Pour boiling water again, keeping the temperature between 95-100 degrees Celsius.
- For the first infusion, control the time at 10-15 seconds, pour out the liquor quickly, and serve in the teacup for tasting.
- From the second infusion onwards, gradually increase the time by 5-10 seconds for each subsequent infusion, adjusting according to personal taste and the tea's release of flavor.
- Generally, Pu'er tea fossils can be brewed for more than 10 infusions, with each infusion presenting different flavors that are intriguing and delightful.
Tasting the Liquor
The liquor of Pu'er tea fossils has a bright reddish color, an aged aroma that is inviting, and a smooth and sweet aftertaste. Each infusion brings subtle changes, from the initial richness to the later sweetness, offering rich layers that are unforgettable.
Brewing Techniques and Tips
To better enjoy the unique flavor of Pu'er tea fossils, here are some practical brewing techniques and tips:
- Water quality: Use mountain spring water or mineral water, as the quality of the water directly affects the quality of the liquor.
- Water temperature: Maintain a temperature between 95-100 degrees Celsius, as lower temperatures cannot effectively stimulate the aroma and flavor of the tea.
- Amount of tea: Adjust according to personal taste, usually 5-8 grams, as too much tea will result in a too strong liquor.
- Infusion time: Control the timing appropriately for each infusion, as too long or too short can affect the taste of the liquor.
Storage Methods for Pu'er Tea Fossil
The storage of Pu'er tea fossils is also very particular. Correct storage methods can improve the quality of the tea fossils over time.
- Dry and ventilated: Store in a dry and well-ventilated environment to avoid dampness.
- Avoid odors: Tea easily absorbs odors, so store away from items with strong smells.
- Suitable temperature: Maintain a constant temperature around 20 degrees Celsius to avoid large temperature fluctuations.
- Dedicated container: Use containers with good breathability, such as purple clay jars or ceramic jars, for storage.
Summary
Pu'er tea fossils are a highly distinctive tea variety. By using the correct brewing method, you can maximize the release of their aroma and flavor. Whether you are a novice tea enthusiast or an experienced connoisseur, you can appreciate the wonderful changes bestowed by nature and time in these tiny leaves. We hope this article helps you better understand and brew Pu'er tea fossils, making every cup a delightful experience.