White tea, often referred to as "one-year tea, three-year medicine, seven-year treasure." It embodies the principle of moderation in taste, featuring the floral fragrance of oolong tea, the sweet richness of black tea, the fresh aroma of green tea, and the medicinal scent and jujube fragrance of aged white tea. How should you brew it? Here are four methods for brewing white tea. To brew white tea well, first master these three key factors: the grade, age, and form of the tea. For new loose leaf white tea and Silver Needle, start at 85°C; adjust the water temperature by 3-5 degrees based on the coarseness of the leaves. When brewing new tea or tea buds, avoid pouring the water directly onto the leaves; instead, pour along the sides of the cup. For aged teas, compressed cakes, and bricks, boiling water can be used for brewing or cooking the tea. The Brewing Methods for White Tea: 1. Gaiwan Brewing Method for White Tea Suitable for: Silver Needle, White Peony, and new white tea. Tea-to-Water Ratio: 1:30. Water Temperature: 85-90°C. Steps: Warm the cups and utensils, add the tea, pour hot water along the edges of the gaiwan, after 10 seconds, quickly…

A purple clay teapot is a durable tea utensil that can be used indefinitely as long as it isn't chipped or damaged. However, if not used carefully, various issues can arise, such as odors and tea stains. So, how should one clean a purple clay teapot? Let's discuss the cleaning process today. Odor and Tea Stain Cleaning If a teapot is left unused for a long time or if the tea residue isn't promptly discarded, it may develop mold or an unpleasant odor. The ancients have recorded a method for cleaning this: If the teapot has absorbed unwanted odors, fill it with boiling water, pour it out after a moment, then immediately immerse it in cold water. Quickly remove it from the cold water and pour out the water. This will restore the original aroma of the teapot. ▲ Clearing out tea residue The idea is to first fill it with boiling water, shake it gently a few times, pour it out, and then immerse it in cold water, which removes the odor. Repeat this several times. If a teapot is used frequently but not cleaned promptly afterward, another situation can occur where tea stains accumulate. If you encounter stubborn…

There was a rumor that someone would collect used tea leaves, dry them, and sell them as tea to diners. I don’t believe such rumors. What do you think about the possibility? While it's unlikely that used tea leaves could be resold as tea, they are not entirely useless. With proper collection and utilization, they can indeed be turned into something useful. Today, let’s discuss what uses spent tea leaves have. Let’s see if you can turn waste into treasure. 1. Eliminate Spicy and Unpleasant Odors If you eat something particularly spicy during a meal, try chewing on some steeped tea leaves and rinse your mouth with tea. This will quickly alleviate the spiciness. Similarly, if you consume garlic, onions, or other foods with strong odors that leave your breath unpleasant, you can chew on tea leaves and rinse your mouth with tea or water to freshen your breath and eliminate the odor. 2. Remove Kitchen Grease and Fishy Smells In the kitchen, many utensils inevitably get greasy when cooking. Used tea leaves can be used to wipe surfaces and effectively remove grease. Especially for stubborn grease on stoves, wiping several times with damp tea leaves works very well. When…

It seems like yesterday, yet it has truly been an era of vicissitudes; the smoky clouds of the Song Dynasty have faded, but the long river of history has left behind the immortal legend of the purple clay teapot. The teapot says, "I am still waiting, waiting for that tea that understands me." The tea says, "I have always been waiting for that purple clay teapot that embraces me." Thus, a tea leaf falls into the pot, meets water, and from then on there is tea, leaving in the human world a tale of tea that can never be fully told. Tea leaves are sentimental. China is the homeland of tea, where there is no shortage of tea brewing vessels. However, tea leaves have a special fondness for this particular pot—the purple clay teapot. The purple clay teapot is also loyal to the tea leaves. For the sake of tea, it gives everything it has, devoting its entire life to protecting the tea. The tea says, "There are countless fine teas in the world, but why do you always overlook them and choose only me?" The teapot says, "In the world of purple clay, the ancient adage 'serve one master…

Phoenix oolong tea is characterized by its warm and spicy nature, sweet and mellow taste, and extraordinary aroma. It is renowned for its unique qualities such as "solitary and high fragrance," "drinkable perfume," "aromatic, sweet, and lively," and "distinctive mountain character." For tea enthusiasts, the primary concern is often how to select, which aspects to focus on, and how to identify quality before delving into the nuances of aroma and flavor. Evaluating Dry Tea for Quality The appearance of dry Phoenix oolong tea can be assessed in terms of shape, color, uniformity, and cleanliness across four aspects. The tightness of the leaves can indicate whether they come from high-altitude or low-altitude areas, were picked young or mature, or harvested during different seasons. The shape can also reveal any flaws in processing that led to loose and flat leaves. The luster and freshness or dullness of the color can help determine the aroma quality. Teas with a glossy and vivid color generally have purer and higher aromas, while those with a dull color have lower, mixed aromas. Dull colors are usually due to old leaves, excessive bruising, delayed killing of the green, or too low or high temperatures during drying. The…

During the National People's Congress in March 2014, President Xi Jinping, while participating in a discussion with the Guizhou delegation, made an important instruction: “For Dy Maojian tea, we hope you can promote the brand further.” For centuries, the lingering fragrance of Dy Maojian tea has transcended history and borders, captivating many. From the principle that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” to “promoting the Dy Maojian brand,” and onto the New National Development Document No. 2 explicitly proposing to “develop modern mountainous characteristic and efficient agriculture,” Dy Maojian shoulders the heavy responsibility of leading Guizhou teas out of the region. The Dy Maojian tea of today is undoubtedly a milestone in the accumulation and development over generations. Photo by Lu Tao Focusing on Policy Guidance, Vigorously Developing the Maojian Tea Industry Over the years, Du Yun City has thoroughly implemented President Xi Jinping’s important instructions regarding “promoting the Dy Maojian brand” and the integrated development concept of tea culture, tea industry, and tea science. It has taken the Dy Maojian as its core industry, focusing on the work philosophy of “year-round picking, full utilization of the tea plant, and full-chain development.” Efforts have been made in key…

Pu'er spring tea, harvested in spring, boasts a rich and flavorful infusion, a strong aftertaste, and is generally of high quality throughout the year. Now is the season when Pu'er spring tea hits the market, and many tea enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting their chance to taste it. However, when purchasing Pu'er spring tea, enthusiasts should be careful to select the right product to ensure they are getting genuine spring tea from the current season. The correct methods for selecting Pu'er spring tea involve two steps: dry evaluation and wet evaluation. Dry evaluation involves observing the shape, color, and aroma of the dry leaves before brewing. Wet evaluation involves smelling, tasting, and examining the infused leaves after brewing. The characteristics of ancient tree Pu'er spring tea include the following: During the autumn and winter seasons, all living organisms are in a state of storage and accumulation. The spring tea, having rested and conserved energy, accumulates abundant nutrients. Additionally, due to the persistently low temperatures during the spring, the consumption of these nutrients is minimal, allowing the tea to retain a higher concentration of nourishment. Spring tea has the highest protein content, which significantly enhances the flavor of the tea infusion. In…

During the spring warming period, cold air often invades, causing a significant drop in temperature. This weather, characterized by warmth before and cold after, is known as late spring cold. Late spring cold generally refers to prolonged periods of low temperatures and overcast rainy weather after the Vernal Equinox, specifically when the temperatures in late March or early April are lower than average. Depending on the timing, it can be further divided into "Vernal Equinox Cold" and "Qingming Cold." "Vernal Equinox Cold" occurs when the daily average temperature remains below 10°C for five days or more, with less than three hours of sunshine, from March 15 to March 27. "Qingming Cold" refers to low-temperature and rainy weather from March 28 to April 10. The Harm of Late Spring Cold to Tea Plants: In addition to variety, soil, fertilization, management, and processing skills, the production of high-quality tea also depends on climatic conditions. The relationship between tea production and temperature, sunlight, and rainfall is close. When the daily average temperature remains above 10°C for three consecutive days, tea buds begin to sprout and unfurl; once the temperature stabilizes above 10°C, the growth of buds and leaves accelerates, and new shoots emerge.…

In recent years, Sinan County has firmly embarked on a path of eco-priority and green development, leveraging its unique natural ecological treasures to cultivate and promote its eco-friendly tea brand. By strengthening close cooperation and synergistic development mechanisms among tea companies, it has successfully attracted many high-quality clients. Tea loading. At Guizhou BaiFuyuan Eco-Agricultural Development Co., Ltd. in Xujia Dam Town, Sinan County, the workshop is bustling with activity as workers are diligently packing boxes of red oolong tea. This batch of tea was purchased by Guizhou Dingjia Tea Co., Ltd., a supplier of tea drink ingredients for Wahaha Group, and is about to embark on its journey to Wahaha’s tea-based beverage production line. Ready-to-ship tea. Speaking about the 800-ton order of red oolong tea, Liu Housi, head of the Sinan County Tea Industry Association, said with joy, “The first delivery of this order is 60 tons, divided into three batches, and the first truckload has already been dispatched, loaded with 20 tons of high-quality tea.” Transporting tea. To further promote the tea industry, Sinan County established a tea industry association in July this year, pooling the wisdom and strength of various tea cultivation, processing, and related enterprises in the…

White tea can typically be boiled, and by doing so with clear water, the nutrients within the leaves are released, making them easier for the body to absorb. Drinking white tea can also help in managing blood pressure and sugar levels, so it is beneficial to consume it in moderation as part of your daily routine. Is White Tea Best Enjoyed Boiled? White tea is a slightly fermented tea and a traditional type of Chinese tea, rich in nutrients such as polyphenols and vitamins. Boiling white tea is relatively simple; take an appropriate amount of white tea leaves and place them in a glass container. Then, use clear water to brew and boil the leaves for about three minutes before drinking. Moderate consumption can promote blood circulation and help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, which is beneficial for controlling blood pressure. Additionally, white tea contains active enzymes that can aid in fat metabolism when consumed in moderation, helping with the breakdown of sugars and assisting in regulating blood sugar levels. It can also help with lowering blood sugar. Furthermore, white tea contains flavonoids, which can assist in eliminating free radicals from the body. However, it is recommended to drink…

Sha Qing is a process in tea production, which involves using high temperatures to denature and deactivate the oxidase enzymes in fresh tea leaves. This inhibits the enzymatic oxidation of polyphenols in the fresh leaves, allowing them to release moisture and become softer. It is also a critical step in shaping the quality of the tea. Methods of sha qing include drum sha qing, pan sha qing, trough sha qing, steam sha qing, hot air sha qing, and microwave sha qing. Different methods produce different effects, thus resulting in unique characteristics in the finished tea. Sha qing follows the principle of "high temperature first, then gradually lower." Sha qing is one of the initial processes in making green tea, yellow tea, dark tea, oolong tea, Pu'er tea, and some black teas. The primary purpose is to use high temperatures to denature the enzymes in the fresh leaves, inhibiting the enzymatic oxidation of polyphenols and slowing down the fermentation process. 1. The Purpose of Sha Qing The term "sha qing" refers to fresh leaves. In Pu'er tea production, sha qing uses a specific temperature to denature the activity of enzymes in the tea leaves, inhibiting the enzymatic oxidation of polyphenols and…

Enthusiasts of Pu'er tea who have been enjoying it for some time will undoubtedly have a fine collection at home, ready to be savored over time. It's crucial to properly manage humidity and odors to preserve your beloved teas. Here, we discuss the four don'ts and do's of storing Pu'er tea. The Four Taboos of Storing Pu'er Tea at Home Taboo One: Avoid High Temperatures High temperatures accelerate the degradation of chlorophyll in Pu'er tea, causing it to convert into de-magnified chlorophyll, changing its fresh green color to dark brown. The auto-oxidation of polyphenols and other substances also accelerates under high temperatures. Research shows that for every 10°C increase in temperature, the rate of browning in Pu'er tea accelerates, affecting its quality and aging process. Taboo Two: Avoid Direct Sunlight The plant pigments and lipids in Pu'er tea are susceptible to photochemical reactions, which can produce sun-dried and other off-flavors. Pu'er tea is particularly sensitive to light, so it should be stored away from direct sunlight. Taboo Three: Avoid Strong Odors Tea leaves are porous and easily absorb odors. Therefore, avoid storing Pu'er tea in places with strong odors, as these can taint the tea's natural flavor. Taboo Four: Avoid…

According to Lu Yu’s “Tea Classic,” the source of tea is described in terms of sunny cliffs and shaded forests, and it has long been said that high mountains and famous lakes produce fine teas. The fresh leaves produced by a tea garden are the most crucial foundation for a good cup of tea. For the Zhoushan tea industry, our tea gardens are a source of pride. Just the poetic scenery of spring warmth and blossoms facing the sea allows one to feel the spirit of the ocean and the blessings of spring. In addition to this, Zhoushan's tea gardens that face the sea have unique natural endowments.Characteristic One Located at 30 degrees north latitude, some say this line of latitude is mysterious; however, for Zhoushan's tea gardens, there is not only a mysterious aura but also numerous characteristics. Firstly, it forms a climate with distinct seasons, possessing all the attributes of this region in southern China. Here, tea gardens sprout in spring, grow in summer, harvest in autumn, and rest in winter, giving the tea plants an almost complete growth cycle. It is warm in winter and cool in summer, yet cold air and sea breezes still bring a…

Pu'er tea is primarily divided into raw and ripe varieties. How do you choose an affordable yet delicious raw Pu'er tea? How to Select Raw Pu'er Tea? 1. Start by examining the tea cake. Look for signs that it's spring tea, which usually has some yellowish leaves on its surface. Check for "hoof prints," as spring tea buds and leaves are slightly fatter than those of autumn tea. The texture of autumn tea appears smoother and more linear compared to spring tea, with longer and finer strands. Autumn tea doesn't have yellowish leaves and looks very clean. 2. Smell the tea cake. Good tea should have a dry aroma and no off odors. If there are any unusual smells, immediately discuss this with the seller to determine the cause. Be cautious when tasting the tea later. 3. After rinsing the tea, pay attention to the clarity of the infusion in the teapot. A good infusion should be very clear, with a light yellow color for new teas. 4. When tasting, judge your initial impression. If the tea is very astringent, see if there is a subsequent production of saliva that mitigates the astringency. If, after swallowing the tea and then…

Peering through the mist and looking down from above, rows of tea plants overlap in layers, scattered like stars across the mountains, nurturing this land like the source of life — Mount Mengding. Located on the southwestern edge of the Sichuan Basin in the eastern part of Ya'an City, Mount Mengding occupies the golden zone for tea cultivation in Sichuan. With distinct seasons, abundant rainfall, uniform sunlight, fertile soil, and suitable temperatures, it is often referred to as the "Rainy Sky of Western Sichuan," making it an ideal environment for tea plants and providing favorable conditions for high-quality tea. The Legacy of Mengding: Tracing the Ancient Legend of a Thousand-Year Tribute Tea In the Western Han Dynasty, the tea ancestors began planting tea on Mount Mengding, sowing seven sacred tea saplings on the peak of Lotus Five Peaks, initiating the precedent of Chinese tea culture. The quality of Mount Mengding's tea was exceptional; after eight centuries of word-of-mouth praise, it became renowned nationwide and eventually graced the palates of royalty, becoming a tribute item. During the Tang Dynasty, tea from Mount Mengding was officially listed as a royal tribute; by the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, the finest tea…

Abstract: Through a long historical development, Xinyang Maojian Tea has become a brilliant highlight in Chinese tea culture due to its unique origin and exquisite production techniques. This article analyzes the historical origins, cultural connotations, quality characteristics, production processes, market trends, inheritance, and innovation of Xinyang Maojian Tea, thereby elucidating its history, culture, and modern value. Please note that this is one author's perspective, and errors are inevitable; your indulgence is kindly requested (one person's opinion; April 2024). Keywords: China; Tea Culture; Xinyang Maojian; Historical and Cultural; Modern Value I. Historical Origins of Xinyang Maojian Tea 1.1 Origin and Legends Xinyang Maojian Tea is a type of green tea produced in the Xinyang region of Henan Province, China. There are several stories about the origin and legends of Xinyang Maojian Tea: 1. Legend One: It is said that during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, a tea farmer accidentally fell into a pile of tea leaves while picking them. When he climbed up in fright, he found that his sweat had covered the tea leaves. After roasting these leaves, he discovered that they were bright green in color and delicious, becoming the prototype of Xinyang Maojian Tea.…

Autumn is here. What adjustments should we make to our tea-drinking habits? How can we drink tea for health in autumn? Tea drinking has been a part of Chinese tradition, and there are specific considerations for what types of tea to drink throughout the year: 01 Puer Tea Scientific evidence shows that Puer tea has multiple effects, including dissolving fats, regulating metabolism, and protecting against radiation. Long-term consumption of Puer tea can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, making it useful for treating obesity. Drinking Puer tea also causes physiological effects such as vasodilation, reduced blood pressure, slowed heart rate, and increased cerebral blood flow, making it beneficial for hypertension and cerebral arteriosclerosis patients. 02 Chrysanthemum Tea Chrysanthemum has a slightly bitter and sweet taste and is slightly cold in nature. It can disperse wind and clear heat, improve liver function and eyesight, and detoxify and reduce inflammation. For dry mouth, heat in the body, eye strain, or conditions like limb pain and numbness caused by wind, cold, or dampness, Chrysanthemum tea can provide therapeutic benefits. It can be used to treat common colds, headaches, and other conditions. Due to the characteristics of the season, autumn can be dry, causing many office…

The ancient tree spring tea originates from old tea trees that have withstood the test of time, harvested in the spring season. It boasts several unique qualities: its aroma is rich and lingers in one's heart; its taste is mellow and intoxicating. This tea is not only nutritionally rich but also contains antioxidants that bring numerous benefits to both body and mind. Savoring a cup of ancient tree spring tea feels like an intimate conversation with nature, experiencing the sedimentation of time and the vitality of spring. Ancient tree spring tea refers to the new spring tea picked from old tea trees. It has the following characteristics and benefits: Characteristics: 1. The leaves are fresh green, and the tea brews into a clear infusion with floral and fruity fragrances. 2. The mouthfeel is delicate and smooth, with a sweet and full-bodied taste. 3. The liquor color is bright, the base is mild, and it is not overly bitter or astringent. 4. The long growth period of the tea trees results in high-quality leaves that are rich in nutrients. Benefits: 1. Ancient tree spring tea is rich in tea polyphenols, which have excellent beautifying and nourishing effects on the skin. 2.…

A commonly used method to store white tea is the "three-layer packaging method," which involves preparing a cardboard box, an aluminum bag, and a plastic bag. First, take out the white tea and put the tea leaves into the aluminum bag, squeezing out the air and sealing it. Then place an outer layer of plastic bag over it and tie the bag’s opening securely. Take a five-layer corrugated cardboard box, put the tea inside, and seal it with tape. Finally, store the tea in a dry, cool room free from odors, keeping it off the floor and away from walls. White Tea Storage Methods 1. Hot Water Bottle Storage Method Hot water bottles are common tools with good airtightness and stable temperatures, making them ideal for storing white tea. To store white tea using a hot water bottle, simply place the tea leaves into a new hot water bottle and seal it. 2. Refrigerated Storage Method Storing tea in the refrigerator is a common method. Seal the tea in bags or tea cans and store them in the refrigerator, ideally at 5°C. For home storage, first, seal the white tea in a tin foil bag and then place it in…

Water pouring is the only step in tea brewing that requires complete manual control. The speed of pouring, the intensity of the water flow, the direction, height, and thickness of the water stream are all manually controlled but have a significant impact on the quality of the tea. Common methods of water pouring include: spiral pouring, circular pouring, single-point pouring on one side, and central point pouring. Common techniques for pouring water include: high pouring, high suspension, low pouring, and low suspension. Let’s take a look at these four methods and techniques to see how they work and what their characteristics are. The Four Methods of Water Pouring in Tea Brewing 01. Spiral Pouring This method ensures that the edges and the surface of the tea leaves in the gaiwan come into direct contact with the poured water, increasing the blend of tea and water at the moment of pouring. This pouring technique is suitable for black tea, green tea, and white tea. Or, when brewing later infusions where the flavor has become lighter, using spiral pouring can help the tea essence to release more quickly. 02. Circular Pouring As the name suggests, this involves pouring water in a circle…