Basic Introduction to Longchi Xiangjian Tea Longchi Xiangjian Tea is a specialty of Huaining County, Anhui Province, and a Chinese national geographical indication product. The tea gardens where the Longchi Xiangjian Tea is produced are located in Zhiting Village, Qinghe Town, Huaining County, Anhui Province. These gardens situate amidst lush vegetation, fertile soil, and numerous streams and springs, shrouded in mist year-round at an altitude of around 400 meters near the scenic area around Longchi Nunnery on Shuangjian Mountain. The superior ecological environment, combined with traditional management practices that rely primarily on organic and compost fertilizers, ensures the robust growth of the tea plants. The natural predators and environmental conditions effectively control pests, so no pesticides have ever been used. The tea leaves are clean and unpolluted, possessing the unique aroma of high-altitude teas, hence the name "Longchi Xiangjian." The "Longchi Xiangjian (Longchi Peak Tea)" has a long cultural history and profound regional characteristics, renowned for its flat spear-like shape, bright yellow-green infusion, elegant fragrance, refreshing taste, and uniform greenish-yellow leaf base. Manufacturing Process The tea is harvested around the Qingming Festival. It uses the young shoots of one bud and one leaf or one bud and two initial unfurled…

Spring is the time when spring tea and tea lovers come together. By April, new batches of Longjing tea will be released. Longjing tea is renowned worldwide for its tender green color, fragrant aroma, sweet taste, and elegant appearance. So how do we choose good quality Longjing tea? Look at the Production Area Firstly, you can select Longjing tea based on its origin. There are three main production areas for Longjing tea: the West Lake area, which includes the current administrative region of West Lake District (West Lake Scenic Area) in Hangzhou City; the Qiantang area, including the current administrative regions of Xiaoshan, Binjiang, Yuhang, Fuyang, Lin'an, Tonglu, Jiande, and Chun'an counties (cities, districts); and the Yuezhou area, including the current administrative regions of Shaoxing, Yuecheng, Xinchang, Shengzhou, Zhuji counties (cities, districts) in Shaoxing City, as well as some towns in Shangyu, Pan'an, Dongyang, and Tiantai counties (cities). The quality of tea from different production areas varies, and there can be significant differences in price. Map of the Geographical Indication Product Protection Scope for Longjing Tea Additionally, you can check if the product packaging of Longjing tea has a Chinese geographical indication label, which is a more direct method. Assess…

Summer tea preservation can be divided into two types: one includes green tea, yellow tea, and lightly fragrant oolong tea, which should be sealed in aluminum foil bags, placed in a tin can, and stored in the refrigerator. The second type, including white tea, Pu'er tea, dark tea, and oolong tea with a high charcoal roast level, is suitable for storage at room temperature. When storing these teas, avoid direct sunlight, dampness, and strong odors; they can be kept in cool places such as bookshelves or tea rooms. How to Best Preserve Tea in Summer 1. Room Temperature Storage During the hot summer months, white tea, black tea, Pu'er tea, and oolong tea with high roasting temperatures can be directly stored at room temperature, such as on indoor bookshelves or in cabinets. When storing tea, avoid direct sunlight, dampness, and strong odors to prevent spoilage. 2. Tin Can Storage Prepare a tin can with a double-layered lid and place dried tea leaves inside, pressing them down as you fill it. Try to fill the can as much as possible to minimize air inside. After filling the can, seal the lids and use tape to secure any gaps. Finally, place the…

In the mountainous northwest of Hubei, on the "Roof of Gucheng" at an average altitude of over a thousand meters in Zhaowan Township, there are two brothers who serve as the Party branch secretaries of two adjacent villages. Their story of sharing resources and collectively developing the tea industry to lead the locals to prosperity and a moderately prosperous life is widely known. "How's the quality of the tea processed by the mechanical arms?" "Not bad, I'll come and process a couple of batches myself then." At the end of June, Wang Anjun, the Party branch secretary of Taozhuang Village, brought his younger brother Wang Anhua to visit the newly purchased equipment in the village. Wang Anhua is the Party branch secretary of Changling Village, and had been worried about the tea production due to insufficient funds to build a new production line. "Brother, can we join forces to build a medium-sized tea processing factory? This way, we can share equipment and labor, saving costs and increasing efficiency," Wang Anhua asked, looking at Wang Anjun. Wang Anjun nodded in agreement, saying, "That's exactly what I was thinking. Let's do this together." Taozhuang Village and Changling Village are both high-altitude villages,…

"Hello tea enthusiasts, everyone. I'm Na Fa, the secretary of Nanhua Village in Nanmei Township. Welcome to our live stream...” After completing his daily tasks and without any special events, at 9:00 PM every night, the Douyin live streaming room of the Nanhua Village cooperative goes live on schedule. To increase the visibility of Nanhua Village's teas and broaden their sales channels, since December 2023, Nanhua Village has been preparing to establish a live streaming team. To date, through live streaming, they have helped local tea farmers sell 0.6 tons of tea and over 400 units of agricultural specialty products, increasing farmers' incomes by over 80,000 yuan. This has, to some extent, increased the exposure of Nanhua Village's tea products and enabled high-quality Nanhua tea to reach a wider audience. However, issues such as non-standard product labels, unprofessional live streaming language, and a lack of product variety have become increasingly apparent. To address these practical problems, with the support and concern of the District Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the District Market Supervision Administration Bureau, Nanmei Township organized training sessions in Nanhua Village for the standardization of tea product labeling, Mandarin learning, and honey sales.…

Black tea is the most consumed type of tea worldwide, known for its gentle, mellow flavor that warms from throat to stomach. However, brewing a high-quality cup of black tea can be challenging for many beginners. Many tea enthusiasts often encounter a bitter and astringent taste when brewing black tea. How can we avoid these pitfalls? Today, Chaye Dan (Tea Egg) will share some tips on how to brew a delicious cup of black tea. 1. **Choice of Teaware** A white porcelain gaiwan brings out the fresh and elegant flavors of black tea without overpowering its aroma. The translucent white porcelain complements the reddish hue of the tea, making it easy to observe the color of the liquor, which is truly a beautiful sight. 2. **Ratio of Tea to Water** When brewing tea, it's important to get the right ratio of tea to water. Many tea enthusiasts rely on experience, but using too much tea is the primary cause of overly bitter and astringent tea. When using a gaiwan to brew black tea, the recommended amount of tea is about 4 grams. If you use too little tea, even with less water, you won't fully bring out the rich flavor…

Short-shoot cutting propagation of tea plants not only preserves the superior characteristics of the parent tree but also achieves rapid multiplication of tea seedlings, making it the optimal approach for the advancement of clonal varieties of tea, including albino tea. Technological Process for Propagation Propagation Plan: Determine the variety, quantity, and timing of propagation, prepare funds, materials, and labor accordingly. Cultivate Cuttings: Decide on the source of cuttings and arrange for their cultivation in advance. Nursery Preparation: Prepare the nursery and seedbeds in advance and equip them with necessary materials. Pruning and Propagating: Prune cuttings, propagate them, and manage the nursery concurrently. Nursery Management: Manage water, temperature, light, fertilization, pest and weed control, and branch control. Transplanting Seedlings: Prepare for water control in the nursery, packaging materials, and transplant seedlings according to standards. Propagation Cycle and Timing The propagation cycle for cutting propagation typically requires one year for the growth of healthy, qualified tea seedlings. However, with advancements in propagation and planting techniques, the cycle is trending towards shortening. Many self-breeders opt for transplanting small-sized seedlings in nearby areas with favorable ecological conditions. When using advanced facilities such as greenhouses, the seedlings often meet the required specifications without needing a…

Ruyao, the top of the Five Great Kilns of the Song Dynasty, is renowned worldwide for its unique sky-blue glaze and “ Cicada Wing ” crackle. Ruyao tea ware is not only a vessel for tea but also a precious work of art. However, maintaining Ruyao tea ware is a delicate art that requires careful attention to keep it fresh over time and reveal its unique charm. The crackle is the most distinctive feature of Ruyao tea ware and one of its most aesthetically pleasing elements. The crackle refers to the naturally occurring fine cracks on the surface of the glaze, light and lively like a cicada's wing. The formation of Ruyao crackle primarily depends on the difference in expansion coefficients between the body and glaze. During high-temperature firing, the glaze contracts faster than the body, forming a dense network of cracks. Maintaining the crackle of Ruyao tea ware is essentially a subtle interaction process between the tea infusion and the glaze surface. The minerals and pigments in the tea gradually seep into the cracks, gradually changing their color and texture, making them richer and deeper. Therefore, the key to maintaining Ruyao tea ware lies in regular use and care…

When it comes to Ku Ding tea, most people are familiar with it. When suffering from heatiness, a dry mouth, or a sore throat, many will brew a cup of Ku Ding tea to alleviate their discomfort. However, while Ku Ding tea is called tea, it is not made from traditional tea leaves. The large-leaf Ku Ding, found in southern China, belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. The raw material for Ku Ding tea is the leaves of Ilex latifolia, which were first processed during the Eastern Han Dynasty. It is mainly produced in Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hainan provinces, and has a bitter taste. The small-leaf Ku Ding, grown in central and western China, belongs to the Oleaceae family (Ligustrum). It is primarily cultivated in Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan provinces. The tea made from its leaves has the fresh sweetness of green tea and is less bitter than the large-leaf variety. The Eastern Han text "Tong Jun Record" describes: “In the south, there is a plant called Gualu, similar to tea, but very bitter. When ground into powder and drunk as tea, it keeps one awake all night.” This Gualu refers to what we now know as Ku Ding (the…

Huzhuliangzi Tea Mountain is located in Mengsong Township, Menghai County, Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It is the highest peak within Xishuangbanna, with an altitude of 2,429 meters, and is known as the "Roof of Xishuangbanna" and the "Peak of Xishuangbanna." The name "Huzhuliangzi" has its origins. There is a vast bamboo forest on the mountain, where the wild bamboo is as thick as a wine cup, with long joints that are smooth and devoid of thorns. This wild bamboo is referred to as "slippery bamboo." Locals refer to the highest mountains as "liangzi," hence the name "Huzhuliangzi." While it is named after bamboo, it is famous for its tea. The 2024 Pu'er spring tea harvest season has begun. The price of spring tea depends on many factors, such as origin, tea tree variety, picking season, and processing methods. The following reference prices for raw materials of Mengsong Huzhuliangzi 2024 spring tea provided here are for informational purposes only, and actual transaction prices may fluctuate. Reference Prices for Raw Materials of 2024 Mengsong Huzhuliangzi Spring Tea: Ancient Tree Spring Tea: 1,600-2,800 yuan/kg Middle-Aged Tree Spring Tea: 1,100-1,500 yuan/kg Young Tree Spring Tea: 600-900 yuan/kg Pure First Flush Pre-Sales of 2024 Huzhuliangzi Spring Tea…

Pu'er tea brewing is very particular; even the same tea can taste different depending on who brews it. We emphasize "brewing according to the tea," which means choosing a brewing method based on understanding the nature of the tea, a process that involves continuous learning and practice. This process is long and challenging. However, during this journey, we can start by learning about common mistakes to make the tea more enjoyable. Six Mistakes in Brewing Pu'er Tea 1. High and Fast Water Pouring The high and fast water pouring technique is suitable for Oolong tea, as it enhances its aroma. However, this method is not suitable for Pu'er tea. The rich contents of Pu'er tea can lead to an overly bitter and astringent initial infusion if the water is poured too quickly, resulting in a light and thin later infusion. The desired taste for Pu'er tea is characterized by a stable fragrance, soft and full-bodied flavor, and strong layering. The correct method is to pour water slowly and precisely, ensuring better coordination between the flavors of the early and later infusions. 2. Brutal Tea Cake Breaking If the tea cake is broken into pieces that are too small, too large,…

Tieguanyin, as one of China's top ten famous teas, is beloved by tea enthusiasts for its unique aroma and flavor. However, many people may not be fully aware of the benefits and taboos associated with Tieguanyin tea. This article will explore in detail the health benefits, potential risks, and how to drink it scientifically. Benefits of Tieguanyin Tea Tieguanyin tea is rich in antioxidants that can help combat damage from free radicals, thus preventing various diseases. Here are some of the main benefits of Tieguanyin tea: Stimulates Mental Clarity: The caffeine it contains can stimulate the central nervous system, helping to improve focus and mental clarity. Aids Digestion: The polyphenols it contains can aid digestion and relieve stomach discomfort. Weight Loss: Tieguanyin tea can boost metabolism, aiding in weight control. Anti-inflammatory: Antioxidants can help reduce inflammation in the body. Dental Health: Fluoride and tannic acid in tea can help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay. Taboos of Tieguanyin Tea While Tieguanyin tea offers many health benefits, there are also some taboos to be aware of: Drinking on an Empty Stomach: Drinking tea on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach lining and cause discomfort. Excessive Consumption: Overconsumption of caffeinated tea…

Bai Mudan tea, named for its plump buds and greenish-white leaves that resemble blooming peony flowers, is one of the six major types of Chinese white teas. Not only does Bai Mudan tea have a fresh and sweet taste, but it also offers many benefits. Below, we will introduce you to the detailed steps of brewing Bai Mudan tea so you can enjoy its delicate aroma at home. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) Preparations Before you start brewing, you need to prepare the necessary tools and tea leaves. A transparent glass pot or a white porcelain pot is recommended, as they allow you to better observe the leaves as they unfurl in the water. Choose high-quality Bai Mudan tea leaves, as the quality of the leaves directly affects the taste and mouthfeel of the tea. Warming the Cups and Washing the Tea The first step is warming the cups, which helps to better stimulate the aroma of the tea. Pour boiling water into the teapot and teacups, swirl it around briefly, then discard the water. Next, wash the tea by placing an appropriate amount of Bai Mudan tea in the pot, pouring a small amount of boiling water…

Gafengzhai is truly a mysterious and unique place! It is located in the Mahei Village Committee, Yiwu Township, Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, and is a Yao ethnic village. The altitude here is high, the climate is suitable, and the annual precipitation is abundant, providing an ideal environment for the growth of tea trees. The ancient tea trees in Gafengzhai are distributed in the primeval forest, far from human settlements, with excellent ecological conditions and little human interference. The tea trees grow slowly here and have a strong wild character, with low bitterness and astringency and a quick return to sweetness. Its tea leaves combine strength and softness, possessing a unique mountain charm. They are a superior quality that is gentle yet powerful, embodying aroma, taste, charm, and qi, representing the highest standard of good Pu'er tea. Tasting Gafengzhai, one can experience its sweet and mellow flavor, honey fragrance, smooth texture, and the restrained yet potent tea qi. The beauty of its transformation over time is amazing; new teas start with sweetness, while aged aromas emerge gradually, captivating those who savor it. The charm, high aroma, and returning sweetness of Gafengzhai make it a typical representative of…

Drinking green tea does not cause heatiness. As a non-fermented tea, green tea has a slightly cool nature. It is rich in caffeine and catechins, which can accelerate bodily excretion and promote metabolism. These substances also help to alleviate heatiness and reduce dryness. Moderate consumption of green tea will not only prevent heatiness but also replenish the body's moisture and provide a cooling effect to relieve summer heat. Benefits of Drinking Green Tea First, green tea has excellent properties for refreshing the mind and alleviating fatigue due to the presence of caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system, enhancing mental alertness and focus. Second, the caffeine in green tea can aid digestion by stimulating gastric juice secretion, thus helping with digestion. Third, green tea contains catechins, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and have a strengthening effect on the heart. Fourth, green tea helps protect teeth. The rinsing action of tea water is effective, and the fluoride in tea can help prevent tooth decay and promote dental health. Fifth, green tea contains polysaccharides that possess anti-aging properties and can help protect against radiation. Consuming green tea does not lead to heatiness. Green tea possesses numerous benefits, including refreshing the mind,…

When we savor Puer tea, we often hear the term “Aged Charm.” What is “Aged Charm”? It is a complex sensation that is more pronounced in aged Puer teas. The Aged Charm comprises the woody aroma sensed through the nostrils and the rich taste experienced by the palate, among other sensory perceptions. This charm requires a tranquil mind to appreciate fully, from its fragrance to its flavor. Over time, one can gain a deeper understanding of the Aged Charm. Puer teas that exhibit Aged Charm are typically the result of good raw materials, craftsmanship, and storage conditions working together. Well-made ripe teas generally undergo aging at a rate of about two to three years per cycle. In the first transformation phase, ripe teas may have a slight "watery" feel and "heap scent," but the tea flavor is clear, the heap scent is clean, and the tea soup appears slightly turbid, with a brownish-red or dark red color. There is noticeable aftertaste and a sense of charm. In the second transformation phase, the "heap scent" fades, and the tea and water become more integrated. The ripe aroma and gradually fuller aged aroma become apparent. The tea soup turns deep red, the…

For many, perhaps the term "yellow leaf" may be unfamiliar. Among numerous Pu'er tea enthusiasts and even aficionados, there are not many who truly understand what "yellow leaf" means. The so-called "yellow leaf," put simply, refers to old leaves from old tea trees. As most of these old leaves turn yellow over time, they are named "yellow leaves." In fact, it refers to the part of the raw material screening and sorting process where the leaves are loose and large, and do not form into strips during rolling. According to production standards, this part of the tea leaves that are picked out is commonly referred to as "yellow leaf." Most people who do not understand the situation say that yellow leaves are "diseased, withered, or old leaves," which is incorrect. Moreover, withered, old leaves and diseased leaves cannot be rolled and cannot be processed into finished products at all. Typically, before tea farmers sell their raw tea, they must manually pick out the yellow leaves from the pile of raw tea, which is a significant amount of work. The formation of yellow leaves occurs in two ways: first, the third leaf when picking one bud with one leaf or one…

"Nourish Yang in spring and summer, and Yin in autumn and winter." According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), once we enter spring and summer, it's the time for our body's Yang energy to rise. While "purging fire," we also need "clearing and tonifying." It's okay to have some cold food during hot weather, but we shouldn't overindulge as it can deplete our Yang energy. In the height of summer to beat the heat, it is advisable to "use heat to counteract heat." Hot tea is the best beverage to cool down on a hot day. Today, I'm sharing 11 teas that help you beat the summer heat, reduce dampness, and are perfect for summertime: 1/ Honey Pomelo Tea Honey pomelo tea combines the benefits of pomelo, honey, and black or green tea. Pomelo is rich in vitamin C, which helps alleviate melanin buildup. Its peel acts as a natural fragrance, refreshing the air. A cup of honey pomelo tea can lift your mood and relax your body and mind. 2/ Jasmine Tea Jasmine tea is great for calming the nerves. A cup in the drowsy afternoon can invigorate the spirit, clear heat and relieve summer heat, strengthen the spleen and…

Pu'er tea stands out among teas, as its flavor improves with age. However, not all teas become more fragrant over time; this is only true when the quality of the tea and storage conditions are appropriate. Pu'er ripe tea is suitable for long-term storage, but this does not mean it can be stored indefinitely. Ultimately, the tea must return to its primary purpose: consumption. How Long Should Pu'er Ripe Tea Be Stored? Many people ask questions on this topic, which covers a broad range and cannot be explained in great detail due to the extensive knowledge involved. Generally speaking, ripe Pu'er can be consumed immediately after production, but it tastes better after three to five years. This improvement is mainly due to the process of wet-piling. Wet-piling involves moistening and heating the tea leaves to make them somewhat cooked. After being heated, the tea continues to develop when exposed to air. Unlike raw Pu'er, this development in ripe Pu'er is less noticeable, with an increase in smoothness and little change in aroma, as it has already been mostly defined by the wet-piling process. The duration of wet-piling is a critical step in producing ripe Pu'er. High-quality teas should not be…

 "All medicines are for specific ailments, tea is the remedy for myriad diseases." For a long time, tea has had medicinal and health-preserving properties. Nowadays, the health benefits of tea have gained increased attention, with more and more research being conducted on its therapeutic and health-preserving effects. What exactly can tea prevent or combat? Cancer Prevention More than four thousand authoritative papers on the topic of "tea and cancer" demonstrate that the main component of tea polyphenols, EGCG, is virtually the nemesis of all cancers, particularly effective against uterine, skin, lung, colon, prostate, liver, kidney, and breast cancers. The scientific researchers at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that various types of tea inhibit the synthesis of cancer cells by an average rate of 65%, indicating their anti-cancer properties. Regular consumption of green tea reduces the risk of cancer by over 60% Data from studies conducted by institutions such as Japan's National Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University in the United States, and Curtin University in Australia indicate that men who regularly drink green tea have a 60% lower incidence of prostate cancer compared to those who do not drink it regularly. Drinking two cups of tea…