Fermented tea

"Washing the tea" is more accurately referred to as "awakening the tea." This process is meant to awaken the tea leaves and stimulate their aroma, ensuring they are at their best for brewing so that the taster can experience the best possible fragrance and taste. Some aged Pu'er teas require two rounds of "awakening." Green tea, being a non-fermented tea, retains rich vitamins and amino acids, with the first infusion containing the highest nutritional value. Why Don't We Wash Green Tea? In fact, green tea does not need to be washed due to its distinct production process compared to other types of tea. During the making of green tea, the freshly picked young leaves undergo processes such as fixation, rolling, and drying, which intensify the flavor and aroma of the tea. Other teas, however, require fermentation and thus benefit from an initial rinse with hot water to remove any off-flavors. As for green tea, since it is not fermented, it has not been exposed to air or moisture during production, making a rinse unnecessary. If you enjoy drinking green tea, you can simply pour boiling water over it in your brewing vessel. However, if you want to better appreciate the…

Slowly brew the years and gently cook the tea, enjoying half a day of casual family chat. In winter, sitting around a kettle, pouring your heart out in conversation, listening to the boiling water, and savoring the joy of cooking tea is an extremely poetic affair. Tea drinking methods are generally divided into two: cooking tea and brewing tea. Brewing offers rich flavors, pleasant broth colors, and allows one to experience the changing taste with each infusion, while cooking provides a stable flavor. Differences Between Cooking and Brewing Tea 01 Difference in Amount of Tea Used For brewing, about 3-6 grams of tea is usually sufficient; for aged dark teas or oolongs [aged Tieguanyin or aged Yancha], more can be used, approximately 7-10 grams. When cooking tea, the amount of tea should be reduced to about one-third of the usual brewing quantity. It's best not to use too much tea to achieve the optimal flavor. The specific ratio can be adjusted gradually based on the type of tea and the amount of water. The principle is to use less rather than more tea, as using too much can affect the taste. 02 Difference in Suitable Types of Tea Gaiwans are…

The taboos of drinking black tea include pregnant women avoiding black tea, people with nerve weakness and insomnia forgetting to avoid black tea, and anemic people avoiding black tea. Drinking black tea can increase the burden on a pregnant woman's heart. Drinking black tea can exacerbate symptoms of anemia, and those with nerve weakness and insomnia may have their conditions worsened by drinking black tea. What are the taboos of drinking black tea? 1. Avoid drinking black tea during special periods. Drinking black tea during menstruation, especially strong tea, can induce or aggravate premenstrual syndrome. Medical researchers found that people with a habit of drinking tea are 2.4 times more likely to suffer from premenstrual tension syndrome than those without the habit, and those who drink more than four cups of tea per day are three times more likely. 2. Do not drink black tea on an empty stomach. Drinking black tea on an empty stomach can dilute gastric juices and reduce digestive function, leading to a high rate of water absorption, which allows harmful components in the tea to enter the bloodstream in large quantities, causing symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, and weakness in the limbs. 3. Fever is…

The eighth day of the twelfth lunar month is known as Laba Festival in China. As the saying goes, "Little children, don’t be greedy; once Laba has passed, Chinese New Year will soon follow." By this time, all agricultural work has been completed, and with the approach of the Spring Festival, the customs of Laba take on many festive colors. Soaking garlic in vinegar, eating Laba porridge, and enjoying a fragrant cup of tea are all part of these traditions. They not only help warm the body but also imbue the air with a strong sense of the upcoming New Year. What teas are suitable for drinking during this cold month? Black Tea (Red Tea) In the depths of winter, black tea is an excellent choice. There are many varieties of black tea in China, the most famous being Qimen black tea. The number of black tea enthusiasts in China is growing, and the range of products available is becoming increasingly diverse. Black tea is mild in nature and particularly suitable for consumption during the winter months. Aged White Tea Aged white tea is very suitable for brewing during the winter. In accordance with the natural laws of dormancy, it…

Black tea is a fully fermented tea rich in polyphenols, which have potent antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), black tea is considered warm in nature and has the benefits of warming the stomach, promoting health, invigorating the mind, enhancing intelligence, relieving fatigue, reducing edema, stopping diarrhea, having antibacterial properties, and boosting immunity. The caffeine in black tea stimulates blood vessels and the heart, accelerating metabolism and facilitating the excretion of lactic acid, thus alleviating fatigue. Additionally, the polyphenols in black tea can inhibit substances that harm bone cells, thereby strengthening bones. It also aids in controlling blood sugar levels. Black tea helps digest meat products, making it particularly suitable for those who consume a lot of meat, as it assists with digestion and lowering lipids. However, people with nervous weakness or cardiovascular disease should drink black tea in moderation due to its stimulating effect. Avoid drinking black tea before taking medication, as it may affect the efficacy of the drugs. Also, refrain from drinking it before bedtime to prevent disturbances in sleep quality. What Are the Detriments of Drinking Black Tea Long-Term? Boosting energy and relieving fatigue: The caffeine in black tea stimulates the brain…

Basic Introduction to Dark Tea of AnhuaDark Tea of Anhua is a specialty product of Anhua County, Yiyang City, Hunan Province. It is considered the progenitor of Chinese dark tea and was recorded in historical documents as “Qujiang Thin Slice” during the Tang Dynasty (856). It was once listed as a tribute to the imperial court and officially produced as Dark Tea of Anhua in the third year of the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (1524). By the end of the 16th century, Dark Tea of Anhua had taken the leading position in China and was designated as an official tea during the Wanli period, with large quantities exported to the northwest.Dark Tea of Anhua is one of the six basic types of tea and belongs to the category of post-fermented tea. Its main products include Fu brick, Hei brick, Hua brick, Qing brick, Xiangjian, etc. In ancient times, some of it was sold domestically in Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu, Suiyuan, Ningxia, Xinjiang, Tibet, and Mongolia, while some was processed and compressed into bricks. Apart from being sold domestically in northwest China, it was also exported to the Soviet Union and was specifically referred to as “Brick Tea.”Dark Tea of…

Dark tea is named for its black appearance when finished. It is one of the six major categories of tea and is a post-fermented tea. The main production areas are in Hunan, Hubei, Shaanxi, Anhui, Sichuan, Yunnan, and other regions. Traditional dark tea is made from mature raw dark tea leaves, which are primarily used as the main ingredient for compressed teas. Can dark tea be paired with milk? Dark tea contains rich vitamins and minerals, while milk has a high content of proteins and minerals. Combining dark tea with milk is not only nutritious but also very healthy. Therefore, it is possible to brew dark tea with milk. In Northwest China, many people like to mix dark tea with milk and add a moderate amount of salt, creating a cup of milk tea with a distinctive Western Chinese flavor! It's really convenient and simple! When brewing dark tea with milk, note that boiling water or hot tea should not be used to mix with the milk, as this can cause the milk to curdle and reduce the nutritional value. It is recommended to wait until the dark tea has cooled to between 60-80°C before adding the milk. This will…

Black tea is a fully fermented tea with a gentle nature. It contains a higher amount of caffeine and polyphenols. Those who are in poor health, have excessive internal heat, or are physically weak should not consume it. Those with sensitive stomachs should also avoid drinking large amounts of black tea as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, those with nervous system weaknesses or severe insomnia should refrain from drinking black tea as it could further impact their sleep. Who Should Avoid Drinking Black Tea? 1. Women should not drink strong black tea during the breastfeeding period. 2. Patients with ulcers should drink black tea with caution: black tea can stimulate gastric acid secretion. 3. Those suffering from malnutrition should avoid drinking black tea: black tea has the function of breaking down fat. 4. Individuals with a fever should avoid drinking black tea: the caffeine in black tea can increase body temperature and reduce the effectiveness of medication. 5. Patients with liver disease should avoid drinking black tea: most of the caffeine and other substances in black tea are metabolized by the liver. 6. Individuals with nerve weakness should drink black tea with caution: the caffeine in black tea can…

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…

Those with poor digestion can drink Pu'er ripened tea. Pu'er ripened tea is a fermented tea that has the effects of clearing the stomach, generating body fluid, eliminating phlegm, reducing blood lipids, and lowering blood pressure. Regular consumption of Pu'er ripened tea can have auxiliary benefits for overall health. Can People with Poor Digestion Drink Pu'er Ripened Tea? Those with poor stomach conditions can drink Pu'er tea but should not consume too much or drink it on an empty stomach. Pu'er tea is a fermented tea. Because the tea leaves undergo fermentation, the cold properties are improved. This type of tea has the effects of nourishing and protecting the stomach, as well as anti-inflammatory and bactericidal actions. Drinking it in small amounts can help improve spleen and stomach deficiency without stimulating the stomach lining. When those with poor stomach conditions drink Pu'er tea, they should primarily opt for light teas and only drink small amounts at a time. Pu'er tea contains a relatively high amount of polyphenols and caffeine, which can stimulate the intestinal mucosa and cause discomfort in the stomach if consumed excessively. When drinking Pu'er tea, it's also important to wait about half an hour after meals before…

Tali沱 Tea, a Pu'er tea with a prestigious reputation in the tea world, is widely appreciated not only for its unique shape and rich taste but also for its long history and exquisite production techniques. Today, we will delve into the types, characteristics, and the story behind Tali沱 Tea. What Type of Tea is Tali沱 Tea? Tali沱 Tea belongs to the category of Pu'er teas. Pu'er tea is a post-fermented tea whose production process and storage methods allow it to evolve over time, improving both the liquor and the leaves as they age. Tali沱 Tea is renowned for its compact nest shape, distinctive taste, and aged aroma, making it a classic representative among Pu'er teas. The History of Tali沱 Tea Tali沱 Tea originates from Xiaguan Town, Dali City, Yunnan Province. As early as 1902, the Xiaguan Tea Factory began producing this type of tea, named for its conical shape with a flat base. The Xiaguan Tea Factory has a long history and is one of the oldest tea factories in Yunnan Province. Over the years, Tali沱 Tea has become a highly regarded variety within the realm of Pu'er teas. Production Techniques The production techniques for Tali沱 Tea are unique and…

Basic Introduction to Tieguanyin of Anxi Tieguanyin was invented by Han Chinese tea farmers in Anxi, Fujian Province between 1725 and 1735. It originated from Yaoyang Mountain in Xiping Town, Anxi County (as per the Wang account). It belongs to the oolong tea category and is one of China's Top Ten Famous Teas, representing oolong teas. It is midway between green tea and black tea. The pure Tieguanyin plant is a shrub type with a sprawling growth habit, oblique branches, and leaves that are horizontally positioned. As a semi-fermented tea, it possesses the general health benefits of tea and was presented as the top of the Top Ten Famous Teas at the Shanghai World Expo in 2010. Nutritional Value The organic chemical components in Tieguanyin, such as tea polyphenols, catechins, and various amino acids, are significantly higher than those in other types of tea. The inorganic mineral elements include abundant potassium, calcium, magnesium, cobalt, iron, manganese, aluminum, sodium, zinc, copper, nitrogen, phosphorus, fluorine, iodine, and selenium. The inorganic mineral elements in Tieguanyin, such as manganese, iron, fluoride, potassium, and sodium, are higher than those in other types of tea. Product Characteristics Appearance: robust, round, resembling the head of a dragonfly,…

Can all teas be both steeped and boiled? Of course not. Some teas can become unpalatable when boiled. So, which teas are suitable for boiling, and which are best for steeping? Compared to steeping, boiling allows the full release of a tea’s contents, resulting in a sweeter and richer tasting tea. Which Teas Are Suitable for Boiling, and Which Are Best for Steeping? Green tea should not be boiled. It is an unfermented tea with delicate leaves. Boiling would destroy the vitamin C content and cause excessive caffeine to seep out, turning the tea yellow and making it taste bitter and astringent. Huang tea (yellow tea) should not be boiled. Yellow tea must never be boiled. Its appeal lies in its freshness. Boiling with high water temperatures would ruin the delicate green tea, causing too much caffeine to be released, resulting in a bitter and astringent flavor. Aged white tea can be boiled. New white tea cannot withstand boiling. The most suitable for boiling are aged Gongmei or Shoumei teas. White Peony and Silver Needle, especially those containing tender buds, are not recommended for boiling. Black tea can be steeped or boiled. Black tea is a fully fermented tea with…

White tea is best brewed with water at 80-85 degrees Celsius. As a slightly fermented tea, using moderately hot water can better activate the aroma and flavor of white tea. If boiling water (100 degrees Celsius) is used, it may damage the tea leaves to some extent, affecting both the taste and nutritional value of the tea. Therefore, it is recommended to use water heated to 80-85 degrees Celsius when brewing white tea. Brewing Temperature for New White Tea The ideal brewing temperature for new white tea is around 80 degrees Celsius, ensuring the freshness and crispness of the tea while not compromising its taste. If the water is too hot, it can destroy the vitamins in the tea leaves, reducing the nutritional value of the tea. The higher the water temperature, the stronger the taste of the tea infusion. Generally, the optimal brewing temperature for new white tea is around 80 degrees Celsius, which ensures the freshness and crispness of the tea without compromising its taste. If the water is too hot, it can destroy the vitamins in the tea leaves, reducing the nutritional value of the tea. Additionally, because the tea infusion color is darker, care should be…

Those with poor digestion can drink Pu'er tea, but they should not consume too much and should avoid drinking it on an empty stomach. Pu'er tea is a fermented tea, and since the leaves undergo fermentation, the cold components are improved. This type of tea has the effect of nourishing and protecting the stomach, as well as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Drinking small amounts can help improve spleen and stomach deficiency without stimulating the stomach lining. People with poor digestion who drink Pu'er tea should primarily opt for mild teas and only consume small quantities at a time. Pu'er tea contains a high amount of polyphenols and caffeine, which can stimulate the intestinal wall mucosa and cause discomfort in the stomach if consumed excessively. What Kind of Pu'er Tea Should You Drink with Poor Digestion? Those with poor digestion can drink Pu'er tea, but it depends on the type. It's best to avoid raw Pu'er tea; instead, patients with digestive issues are generally advised to drink ripe Pu'er tea. Ripe Pu'er tea is fermented and has a warm nature, which helps to nourish the stomach. In particular, aged ripe Pu'er tea has protective effects on the stomach. At the right…

Why can green tea and lightly fragrant Tieguanyin be stored in the fridge, while Pu'er tea and some other types of tea cannot? Why Pu'er Tea Should Not Be Stored in the Fridge Like Green Tea 1. The fridge is humid with a high level of moisture, and Pu'er tea has excellent adsorption properties. Adsorbing moisture can cause the tea to become damp and moldy. 2. Various fruits and vegetables are often stored in the fridge. Storing Pu'er tea in the fridge would cause it to adsorb unwanted odors and flavors, leading to off-tastes and spoilage. 3. The ideal storage temperature for Pu'er tea is typically around 30 degrees Celsius. The low temperature inside the fridge is not conducive to the tea's maturation process. Pu'er tea is a fermented tea that contains beneficial microorganisms. The distinctive feature of Pu'er tea, where its flavor improves over time, is attributed to these enzymes. For enzymes to function effectively, they require a well-ventilated, cool, and dry environment. Therefore, it is best to store Pu'er tea at room temperature in a well-ventilated and dry place. Storing it in the fridge increases the risk of mold growth. Pu'er tea is not very picky about its…

The Start of Winter signifies the beginning of a period where all things enter a state of rest and storage. Plants wither, insects hibernate, and the activities of all things tend towards cessation. Before the courtyard, winter snow inspires poetry; around the hearth, so do wine and tea. Though the weather is cold, we are fortunate to have warm tea to nourish our bodies and provide solace. Living between heaven and earth, humans must strive for balance between yin and yang. An excess of yang brings heat, and one's diet should then include more yin-natured foods to balance the internal yin and yang. An excess of yin brings coldness, requiring the intake of yang-natured foods for the same purpose of achieving balance. This is also the rationale behind "eating warming tonics in autumn and winter." The demand for tea or the regulatory effect of tea on the body is, in essence, a manifestation of human respect for and adherence to nature. Therefore, it is crucial that we follow natural laws, adjust our habits according to seasonal changes, and drink tea scientifically in different seasons. Tea Should Be Warm-Natured in Autumn and Winter Due to global warming, the distinct characteristics of…

Black tea is a common type of tea in daily life, being a fully fermented tea. It has a dark brown and lustrous appearance with a rich, sweet fragrance, hence the name black tea. We recommend brewing black tea using a white porcelain gaiwan with water at 90 degrees Celsius, suitable for most types of black tea. Below, ChaYou Network introduces the brewing method. Steps for Brewing Black Tea 01 - Choice of Teaware White porcelain gaiwans can brew out the fresh and elegant flavor of black tea without overpowering its aroma. The white porcelain beautifully complements the red hue of the tea, making it easy to observe the color of the tea. It's simply beautiful. 02 - Tea-to-Water Ratio When brewing tea, it's important to get the right ratio of tea to water. Many tea enthusiasts rely on experience. Using too much tea is the main reason for overly bitter or astringent tea. When using a gaiwan to brew black tea, the amount of tea should be around 4 grams. If too little tea is used, even with less water, it will not fully bring out the fragrant and mellow flavor of the black tea. If you prefer a…

When it comes to tea, one often thinks of the complex flavors brought about by various manufacturing processes: green tea requires fixation, black tea needs fermentation, and Pu'er tea must undergo maturation before it can be consumed... But there is a type of tea that closely captures the natural taste of the leaves themselves: white tea. White tea is one of the six major types of tea and is renowned for its fresh, unroasted, and unrubbed character. If we liken tea production to cooking, some green teas would be stir-fried, black teas would be braised, while white tea would be blanched, preserving the most basic and original flavor of the tea. It's like human relationships – they don't need to be dramatic, just consistently warm and sincere. Some people say that white tea should not be brewed in a purple clay pot. They believe that white tea is delicate and easily spoiled by the heat retention of a purple clay pot; its fragrant aroma can also be partially absorbed by the dual-pore structure of the pot, affecting the overall flavor. Is this really the case? Can white tea be brewed using a purple clay pot? Absolutely. The distinctive feature of…

Tieguanyin tea can be roughly divided into three types based on the degree of fermentation and manufacturing process: Fresh Aroma Type, Rich Aroma Type, and Mature Aroma Type. Fresh Aroma Type Tieguanyin: This type has a relatively light taste with a slight sweetness at the tip of the tongue. It is made using modern processing methods and is the most prevalent in the market. The Fresh Aroma Type Tieguanyin has a dark green color, clear infusion, rich fragrance, noticeable floral aroma, and a pure taste. Rich Aroma Type Tieguanyin: This type has a full-bodied taste, high and long-lasting fragrance, and a strong returning sweetness. It is made by roasting traditionally processed tea leaves and then baking them further. The Rich Aroma Type Tieguanyin is characterized by its "aromatic, rich, mellow, and sweet" features, dark lustrous color, golden-yellow infusion, pure fragrance, and heavy taste. Compared to the Fresh Aroma Type, the Rich Aroma Type Tieguanyin is warmer in nature and has effects such as quenching thirst, stimulating saliva production, tonifying the spleen, and warming the stomach. Mature Aroma Type Tieguanyin: Also known as aged tea or ripe tea, this type is made by storing Rich Aroma Type or Fresh Aroma Type…

Tea, as an integral part of Chinese traditional culture, is not just a beverage but also a representation of a way of life. From green tea to black tea and Pu'er tea, each type has its unique flavor and brewing method. In this article, we will delve into the varieties of tea, methods of brewing, and how to select appropriate tea ware. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Green Tea: The Representative of Freshness and Elegance Green tea is an unfermented tea known for its fresh taste and rich nutritional value. Common types include Longjing, Biluochun, and Mao Feng. Brewing Method: The brewing of green tea requires attention to water temperature and time. Generally, use water around 80°C, with a brewing time of 1-2 minutes. Higher temperatures or longer times can destroy the fragrance and taste of the green tea. Tea Ware Selection: Glass cups or porcelain cups are suitable, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the leaves unfolding in the water. Black Tea: Rich and Smooth Flavor Black tea is a fully fermented tea renowned for its strong aroma and sweet taste. Notable black teas include Keemun, Darjeeling, and Ceylon. Brewing Method: Black tea requires hot water at…

If conditions permit, consider the following types of purple clay teapots: Clay: Purple clay, red clay, slope mud, etc. Pot shape: Large belly (considering that Yunnan black tea leaves are relatively large) Capacity: Over 200 milliliters Black tea is a fully fermented tea made from new shoots of appropriate tea trees, processed through withering, rolling (cutting), fermentation, and drying. Drinking it regularly not only aids digestion but also nourishes and protects the stomach, making it very suitable for winter consumption. Some people are casual about their tea drinking and will brew black tea in any cup, while others are more particular and use a purple clay teapot to enhance the lingering aroma of the black tea. Not all purple clay teapots are suitable for brewing black tea. Firstly, black tea is named for the red color of its tea soup and leaf base when brewed. Due to the dark color of the tea soup, clays such as purple clay, bottom groove green, clear purple clay, and sky blue clay are suitable. You can choose darker colored clays. If using original green or duan mud, be sure to clean them promptly to avoid unsightly tea stains. The color of the purple…

Basic Introduction to Wuyi Black TeaWuyi Black Tea is a specialty of Wuyishan City, Fujian Province, and is a product marked by China's national geographical indication. Wuyi Black Tea is a fully fermented tea that has a unique flavor, floral and fruity scents, or the aroma of dried longan. Throughout the year, Tongmu Pass in Wuyi is shrouded in mist and clouds, with abundant rainfall and a warm climate. During spring tea season, it often rains continuously, with very little sunshine, so most of the fresh leaves picked from this area need to be withered using artificial heating. Additionally, there are many pine trees in the area, and pine wood is used for fuel, so the fresh leaves absorb the scent of pine resin while withering. During the drying process, the fermented tea leaves are spread on bamboo trays and placed on racks to air-dry or bake, with pine wood still being used below for baking, allowing the tea leaves to absorb even more of the pine resin scent. The finished Zhengshan Xiaozhong tea has the characteristic appearance of thick, tightly bound, straight strands with a lustrous black color. The tea soup is reddish-brown and has a rich, mellow taste…

Puer tea is a type of Chinese tea and a fermented tea. When boiling the tea, some people prefer a rich and thick Puer tea, but for beginners, brewing good Puer tea isn’t easy. Here are some suggestions on how to prepare a rich and thick Puer tea: If you want to boil a rich and thick Puer tea, choosing high-quality Puer tea is very important. How do you select good Puer tea? Firstly, choose well-known brands and avoid purchasing overly cheap Puer tea. Secondly, observe the appearance of the Puer tea; generally, high-quality Puer tea has a neat shape, even color, and a glossy surface; low-quality Puer tea may have withered leaves or stains, an uneven surface, and uneven coloring. Lastly, opt for new or young tea, which will result in a richer and thicker brew. To prepare good Puer tea, selecting suitable teaware is also essential. Porcelain and purple clay teapots are generally suitable for boiling Puer tea. Additionally, the spout of the teapot should be relatively thin, allowing for a slow pour along the edge of the cup, which makes the tea liquor richer and thicker. The water temperature when boiling Puer tea is also crucial. Generally,…