Black tea, as one of the world's three major black teas, is renowned globally for its rich flavor and abundant aroma. From ancient times to the present, black tea has always been deeply loved by people, becoming an indispensable part of daily life. However, faced with the myriad varieties of black tea available on the market, many tea enthusiasts suffer from choice paralysis: which black tea tastes the best? Today, we will delve into this question and guide you through the diverse world of black tea. Black Tea Varieties: Diverse and Unique in Their Own Way The production process for black tea is largely similar, but due to differences in origin, tea tree variety, picking season, and processing methods, a wide range of black tea varieties have emerged. Among them, the following are the most representative: Keemun Black Tea: Produced in Qimen County, Anhui Province, it is famous for its "Qimen fragrance." Keemun black tea has a tight, fine, and uniform appearance, a dark lustrous color, a clear and fragrant aroma with a hint of honey, a bright red liquor, and a sweet, fresh, and full-bodied taste. Zhengshan Xiaozhong: Produced in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, it is one of the…

Spring tea and autumn tea are two types of tea categorized by their harvest season. They have distinct differences in taste, aroma, and flavor, which is why they are favored by different tea enthusiasts. So, which one is better between spring and autumn teas? Today, we will delve deeper into this question. Spring Tea: Messenger of Spring, Fresh and Invigorating Spring tea, as the name suggests, is harvested during the spring season. Since tea plants have rested over winter, they accumulate abundant nutrients. As a result, spring tea has thick leaves rich in content, offering a fresh and invigorating taste with a strong aroma. The harvest time for spring tea generally starts from mid-to-late March and continues until mid-to-late May. In particular, the first flush of spring tea is often the best quality of the year. Green teas have a lustrous green color, while black teas have a dark luster, both being of superior quality. The mouthfeel of spring tea is fresh and invigorating, like the broth of freshly cooked bamboo shoots, leaving a lasting and lively aftertaste. Autumn Tea: Harvest of Autumn, Rich and Mellow Autumn tea, also known as "Gu Hua tea," is harvested during the autumn season.…

Tea is one of the world's most popular beverages. From ancient times to the present, tea brewing has been regarded as both an art and a culture. For tea enthusiasts, mastering the correct brewing method not only allows you to savor the best flavor of the leaves but also brings tranquility and joy during the brewing process. This article will guide you through the general tea brewing process, enabling you to easily master tea-making skills and enjoy every cup of good tea. (Image source: Internet. Please contact us for removal if it infringes on your rights.) Selecting Suitable Tea Leaves The first step in brewing tea is selecting appropriate tea leaves. Different types of tea, such as green tea, black tea, oolong tea, white tea, etc., have varying brewing methods. When purchasing tea, try to choose fresh and high-quality leaves. The quality of the tea directly affects the taste and aroma of the tea liquor. Preparing Tea Utensils Prepare a set of suitable tea utensils. These typically include a teapot, teacups, a fairness cup (used to evenly distribute the tea), and a tea strainer. If possible, you can also prepare a tea tray and tea cloth to keep the tea…

Fuding white tea, due to its unique growing environment and exquisite production techniques, is considered a treasure among white teas. Its clear and bright infusion, elegant aroma, and sweet, rich flavor also offer health benefits. So, how should one properly enjoy Fuding white tea? Brewing Steps for Fuding White Tea 1. Prepare the Tea Utensils For brewing Fuding white tea, you can choose white porcelain bowls with lids, purple clay pots, or glass cups as your tea utensils. White porcelain bowls better showcase the color and aroma of the white tea; purple clay pots absorb the tea's fragrance, making the infusion richer; while glass cups allow you to appreciate the shape and color of the white tea. 2. Clean the Tea Utensils Rinse the inside and outside of the tea utensils with boiling water to remove dust and impurities, and to preheat the utensils. 3. Measure the Tea Leaves Based on the size of your tea utensil and personal preference, take an appropriate amount of Fuding white tea. Generally, for every 500 milliliters of water, use 8-10 grams of white tea. 4. Brew the Tea Pour boiling water into the utensil to quickly moisten the tea leaves. For the first…

Pu'er tea, a beverage with a long history and rich cultural heritage, is beloved for its unique taste and health benefits. However, there has been a longstanding debate among enthusiasts: is raw Pu'er tea better, or ripe Pu'er tea? There's no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on personal taste and needs. If you're interested in understanding the differences between raw and ripe Pu'er teas, along with their respective pros and cons, this article may provide some helpful insights. Raw vs. Ripe: Unveiling Their Origins and Evolution The primary difference between raw and ripe Pu'er teas lies in their production processes. Raw tea is made directly from fresh leaves that undergo withering, fixation, and sun-drying, while ripe tea is subjected to a post-fermentation process after being processed as raw tea. The post-fermentation process is a critical step in the production of ripe Pu'er tea. During this process, the tea leaves are exposed to high temperatures and humidity, allowing microorganisms to trigger a series of complex chemical reactions that give ripe tea its distinctive taste and aroma. Raw Tea: The Aged Charm of Time-Honored Flavors Raw Pu'er tea retains the original flavor of the fresh leaves since it isn't…

Cordyceps, also known as "Caterpillar Fungus," is a precious medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine, offering various health benefits. Brewing Cordyceps into tea not only allows you to enjoy its unique flavor but also makes the most of its medicinal value. This article will detail how to brew Cordyceps tea and explore its many benefits and effects. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) Brewing Method for Cordyceps Tea The brewing method for Cordyceps tea is actually quite simple, requiring just a few steps to complete. Required Ingredients - 3-5 grams dried Cordyceps - 250 milliliters of water - Honey or lemon (optional) Steps 1. Take 3-5 grams of dried Cordyceps and rinse it clean with water. 2. Pour 250 milliliters of water into a pot and heat it over medium heat until boiling. 3. Add the washed Cordyceps to the boiling water and continue boiling for 10 minutes. 4. Turn off the heat and let the tea sit for 5 minutes to fully release the effective components of the Cordyceps. 5. If desired, add honey or lemon for flavoring. 6. Strain the tea through a filter and it's ready to enjoy. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) Benefits…

Tea lovers have likely heard about the practice of "washing tea." Some say the first infusion should be discarded, while others disagree. So, should you discard the first infusion? Let's explore this topic today. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) What is "Washing Tea"? The term "washing tea" is familiar; literally, it means "washing the tea leaves." Many people are accustomed to soaking the tea leaves before brewing with a purple clay pot or a covered bowl, then discarding the first infusion, which they call "washing tea." In professional tea ceremony procedures, this is even listed as a mandatory step. But is "washing tea" really necessary? (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) The Historical Origins of "Washing Tea" "Washing tea" has a long history. In the Ming Dynasty, Tu Long's "Kao Pan Yu Shi" mentions: "When brewing tea, first wash the tea with hot water to remove dust, dirt, and coldness, which makes the tea more flavorful." This suggests that the ancient purpose of washing tea was to remove impurities and coldness from the surface of the leaves, thereby improving its taste. However, in modern tea processing, is this practice still necessary? Is "Washing Tea" Necessary for Modern…

Dark brick tea, one of China's traditional compressed teas, attracts more and more tea enthusiasts with its unique flavor and health benefits. For those new to dark brick tea, brewing it correctly might seem like a minor challenge. However, once you grasp the basics, you can easily enjoy a delicious cup of dark brick tea. This article will detail the brewing method for dark brick tea, allowing you to experience authentic tea aroma at home. (Image source: network; delete if infringement) Understanding the Characteristics of Dark Brick Tea Dark brick tea is a type of dark tea that undergoes fermentation, rolling, compression, and other processes. Its leaves are tightly pressed into a brick shape, hence the name. Dark brick tea is known for its rich aged aroma, full-bodied taste, and durability when brewed. Long-term consumption benefits the digestive system and can help reduce fat, regulate blood sugar, and act as an antioxidant. Understanding these characteristics helps in better brewing the tea. Preparing Tools for Brewing Dark Brick Tea Brewing dark brick tea requires some basic tools, including a teapot, teacups, tea tongs, a tea needle or tea knife, a tea tray, and a strainer. If you prefer traditional tea ceremony,…

Salvia miltiorrhiza, a very popular traditional Chinese herb, is often used to brew tea. Not only does it have a unique taste, but it also helps with health preservation. So, what should you combine with Salvia miltiorrhiza for the best effects when drinking tea? Today, we'll discuss this topic and introduce several healthy and delicious combinations. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Salvia Miltiorrhiza and Rose Petals: Calming the Mind and Beautifying the Skin Rose petals are adored by many who value beauty, not only for their pleasant fragrance but also for their calming effect on emotions, regulation of endocrine functions, and skin beautification. Brewing Salvia miltiorrhiza with rose petals can improve blood circulation and qi, relieve stress, and is especially suitable for women. Salvia Miltiorrhiza and Goji Berries: Nourishing Kidneys, Improving Vision, and Prolonging Life Goji berries, known as "red gems," are renowned for their kidney-nourishing, liver-nourishing, vision-improving, and anti-aging properties. Combining Salvia miltiorrhiza and goji berries in tea can effectively boost the immune system, improve eyesight, enhance physical fitness, and is particularly beneficial for those who strain their eyes excessively. Salvia Miltiorrhiza and Chrysanthemum Flowers: Liver-Cleansing, Vision-Improving, Heat-Reducing, and Inflammation-Relieving Chrysanthemum tea is well-known for its liver-cleansing, vision-improving,…

Osmanthus, a fragrant plant widely cultivated in southern China, is not only an ornamental flower but also an excellent ingredient for brewing tea. Osmanthus tea, with its unique aroma and various health benefits, has gradually become a new favorite in people's daily beverages. Today, let’s talk about everything related to brewing osmanthus tea. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) The History and Culture of Brewing Osmanthus Tea The history of brewing osmanthus tea can be traced back to ancient times when the Chinese had already discovered the medicinal value and unique fragrance of osmanthus. In traditional Chinese medicine, osmanthus tea is used as a remedy for warming the stomach, relieving pain, clearing phlegm, and stopping coughs, and it is also considered a beverage with health-preserving properties. In literary works, osmanthus tea is often mentioned, becoming the subject of poetry and prose by literati. Health Benefits of Osmanthus Tea Osmanthus tea not only has a pleasant aroma but also many health benefits: 1. Relieves Cough: Osmanthus has the effect of clearing phlegm and stopping coughs, suitable for people prone to colds and coughs in winter. 2. Improves Digestion: Osmanthus tea can warm the stomach and relieve pain, helping to alleviate symptoms…

Chenpi aged tea is one of the traditional Chinese health teas, blending the unique flavors and rich health benefits of chenpi (aged tangerine peel) and aged tea. Chenpi itself is a type of Chinese herbal medicine with properties that help regulate qi and strengthen the spleen, as well as moisten the lungs and dissolve phlegm. Aged tea, on the other hand, is cherished by tea enthusiasts for its mellow taste and distinctive aged aroma. So, how do you brew an authentic cup of chenpi aged tea? Let's explore this ancient skill together. (Image source: internet, delete upon request) The Origin and History of Chenpi Aged Tea The origin of chenpi aged tea can be traced back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. At that time, people found that combining chenpi with aged tea could not only improve the bitterness of the tea but also enhance its medicinal effects. Over time, this combination evolved into a unique tea brewing method that has been passed down to this day. Today, chenpi aged tea has become a part of tea culture, not just because of its delicious taste, but also due to its health benefits. Selecting Ingredients Is Key: How to Choose Chenpi…

Purple clay pots are jewels among tea wares, cherished for their unique breathability and ability to absorb tea aromas. However, not all teas are ideal for brewing in these pots. So, which teas are best suited for purple clay pots? Let’s find out together. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Varieties and Characteristics of Purple Clay Pots Purple clay pots come in many varieties, each with its own unique characteristics suitable for different types of tea. Commonly found purple clay pots include Zini (purple clay), Hongni (red clay), and Duan Ni (segmented clay). Zini (Purple Clay) Pots Zini pots are the most common type of purple clay pot, with a deep color and excellent breathability that can retain the aroma of tea well. They are suitable for brewing oolong tea, Pu-erh tea, and black tea, which are heavily fermented. Hongni (Red Clay) Pots Hongni pots have a brighter color and high iron content, making them ideal for brewing teas with rich aromas, such as oolong tea and Pu-erh tea. Although they have slightly less breathability than zini pots, they can enhance the aroma of the tea even better. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Duan Ni (Segmented Clay) Pots Duan…

Biluochun and Longjing are both among the top ten famous teas in China, belonging to the category of green tea. Despite this commonality, they exhibit unique characteristics in terms of origin, appearance, aroma, and taste. Which one truly stands out? This appears to be a perennial conundrum that has puzzled countless tea lovers. Today, let's set aside any biases and delve into the mysteries of Biluochun and Longjing to appreciate their captivating allure! Origins: The Imprint of Place and History Biluochun: Biluochun, also known as Dongting Biluochun, is produced in the areas around East Dongting Mountain and West Dongting Mountain in Wuxian County, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province. As early as the Tang Dynasty, Biluochun had already gained widespread recognition and was hailed as a precious tea. Longjing: Longjing is produced in the mountains surrounding the Lion Peak, Wengjia Mountain, Hupao, Meijiawu, Yunxi, and Lingyin areas near the West Lake in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. The history of Longjing tea is long-standing, with records indicating cultivation began as early as the Northern Song Dynasty. Aesthetic Beauty: A Leaf and Bud, Each Showing Its Charm Biluochun: The appearance of Biluochun is very distinctive. The tea buds are fine and tender, curled into…

Understanding Longans Longans, also known as dragon eyes, are sweet-tasting, nutrient-rich fruits. They can be enjoyed directly or used as a great ingredient for brewing tea. Longan tea is beneficial for nourishing the blood, calming the mind, improving sleep quality, and boosting immunity, making it an excellent choice for daily health maintenance. Want to know what pairs best with longans in tea? Below, we explore several classic combinations of longan tea, offering you more options and inspiration. (Image source: Internet, delete if infringement) Longan and Red Date Tea The combination of longans and red dates is truly a classic among classics. Red dates have the effects of replenishing energy, nourishing the blood, and moisturizing dryness. Together, they create a sweet taste and rich nutritional value. This blend is especially suitable for women, effectively relieving fatigue and regulating vital energy and blood. (Image source: Internet, delete if infringement) Preparation Method: 1. Take an appropriate amount of dried longan flesh and dried red dates. 2. Wash the red dates, remove the pits, and slice them. 3. Place the longan flesh and red date slices together in a cup, pour boiling water over them. 4. Cover the cup and steep for 10 minutes…

Mengding Yellow Bud is a type of yellow bud tea among tribute teas, and it is one of the most famous tribute teas in Chinese history. It is produced in Meng Mountain, Sichuan, and is known for its reputation as "In music, the only clear water I know; in tea, the old friend is Meng Mountain." Mengding Yellow Bud has the quality characteristics of "yellow leaves and yellow infusion." The picking standards are extremely strict, usually carried out around the Spring Equinox, selecting round and plump single buds and the initial opening of one bud with one leaf. When picking, the principle of "five nots" is followed: no purple buds, no diseased or insect-damaged buds, no dew-covered buds, no thin buds, and no hollow buds. It is made through a complex production process. 1. Tea Appreciation (1) In terms of appearance, the finished Mengding Yellow Bud tea has uniform strips, neat buds, tender green leaves, prominent downy tips, flat and straight, with a fresh yellow and lustrous color. (2) Observing the infused leaves, the infused leaves of Mengding Yellow Bud tea are entirely buds, with vibrant, bright yellow colors, evenly arranged, straight and flat. (3) Looking at the infusion color…

Hypertension is a very common chronic disease in modern society, and many people are looking for natural ways to help control their blood pressure. Among these, preserved orange peel tea, as a traditional Chinese herbal tea, has received considerable attention. Can hypertensive patients drink preserved orange peel tea? Let's explore the impact of preserved orange peel tea on hypertension and precautions when drinking it. (Image source: network, delete upon request) What Is Preserved Orange Peel Tea? Preserved orange peel tea is a tea beverage made primarily from preserved orange peel. Preserved orange peel, as its name suggests, is the skin of aged citrus fruit that has been dried and aged. Preserved orange peel holds an important place in Traditional Chinese Medicine, believed to have the effects of regulating qi, strengthening the spleen, and drying dampness and transforming phlegm. In modern health practices, preserved orange peel tea has become a healthy tea beverage enjoyed daily due to its unique taste and rich nutritional content. Can Hypertensive Patients Drink Preserved Orange Peel Tea? The answer is yes. Hypertensive patients can consume preserved orange peel tea in moderation. Not only does preserved orange peel tea have a unique flavor, but it also has…

Silver Shard Tea, a name that sounds quite special, right? It's not just any tea but also a witness to history. Today, let’s delve deeper into Silver Shard Tea, explore its uniqueness, and understand why it has such high discussion among tea enthusiasts. Origin and History of Silver Shard Tea Silver Shard Tea is actually a type of ripe Pu'er tea, categorized as old tea nuggets. Old tea nuggets form during the fermentation process when the tea leaves stick together to create large clumps. After further processing, these large clumps are broken down into small particles. These particles resemble ancient silver shards in appearance, hence the name “Silver Shard”. Some say that it was once used as currency along the ancient Tea Horse Road, replacing silver in transactions. Although this is a beautiful legend, it reflects how much people cherished and valued it. Appearance and Characteristics of Silver Shard Tea The appearance of Silver Shard Tea is highly distinctive. It typically consists of small black or brown particles that are smooth on the outside and compact on the inside, with a certain weight to them. Due to its high density, the tea does not disintegrate or expand even after multiple…

Maojian tea, as one of the six major types of Chinese tea and a green tea, is beloved by many tea enthusiasts. It has won the favor of a wide range of tea lovers with its distinctive aroma and refreshing taste. So, what type of tea is Maojian exactly? Let's delve into the world of Maojian tea to better understand its characteristics, varieties, and brewing methods. Definition and Classification of Maojian Tea Maojian tea, as the name suggests, refers to a type of green tea characterized by its fine, hair-like shape and prominent tips. It is primarily produced in regions such as Xinyang in Henan Province, Zhejiang, Guizhou, and Hunan in China. Among these, Xinyang Maojian is the most famous and is regarded as one of China’s top ten teas. The main features of Maojian tea include its resemblance to a sparrow's tongue, vibrant green color, fresh aroma, and sweet, mellow taste. History and Origin of Maojian Tea The history of Maojian tea can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty, when it first appeared in southern China's tea-producing areas. The production of Xinyang Maojian started at the end of the Qing Dynasty and the beginning of the Republic era,…

Longjing tea, often hailed as China’s “Queen of Green Teas,” is a very special type of green tea. Its name originates from Longjing Village in the West Lake District of Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. This tea is renowned for its unique aroma, sweet taste, and beautiful appearance. As one of China’s top ten famous teas, Longjing tea enjoys a high reputation both domestically and internationally. Historical Background of Longjing Tea The history of Longjing tea dates back more than 1200 years to the Tang Dynasty, but it was during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty that it truly gained worldwide fame. It is said that Emperor Qianlong, while touring the West Lake, praised Longjing tea highly and personally bestowed the title of “Imperial Tea” upon eighteen Longjing tea trees. From then on, Longjing tea became a tribute to the imperial court and became widely known. Distinct Characteristics of Longjing Tea What makes Longjing tea unique goes beyond its long history; it is also due to its four main features: green color, rich fragrance, sweet taste, and beautiful shape. High-quality Longjing tea has tender green leaves with a bright color; when brewed, the tea produces a clear infusion…

If you are not aware of China's fascination with tea, you got to be a little better updated. These are some of the facts that would help you understand why it is important to know about this Chinese and tea connection. Very own discovery: Chinese take pride in the discovery of this beverage which is now consumed all over the world in different forms and taste. It is said that like all other inventions, it was accidental when Emperor Shen Nung was lying under a tree and his servant was boiling water for him. Some of the leaves from the tree actually fell into the boiling water and tea was born! Largest producer of tea: If China would not have been in the world, the total tea production in the world would have gone down by a massive 30%. China yearly produces almost approximately 2.10 million ton of tea which is then most consumed domestically and some exported worldwide. Used as a medicine: Long before during 8th century BC, tea in China was used as a medicine. The Chinese believed that it removed excess heat in the body and also improves the eyesight. Even in today's time, white tea is…