Teacups

Talking about a cup of Puer tea that has "traveled the world" The Yunnan Xiaguan Tea Factory Foreign Trade Co., Ltd. is located on the 25th floor of the South Asia Style First City in Kunming. From here, one can faintly see the Cao Hai Lake and the surrounding mountains through the floor-to-ceiling windows. On the other side of the window is Tang Yiping's office, a room filled with tea and sunshine. As a veteran who held leadership positions at China Native Produce and Animal By-Products Yunnan Tea Import and Export Corporation and Yunnan Tea Garden Group for many years, Tang Yiping has seen many old and mid-aged teas and can still vaguely recall their original appearances. "The classic old teas that are still around today were all made under strict standards at every step from raw material collection to production. At that time, there was no concept of 'aging brings better aroma.' The old teas we have now are miracles that occurred during long periods of storage and have stood the test of history and time," says Tang Yiping. During our interview with Tang Yiping, he brought out several old teas to share with everyone. Talking about the wonders…

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…

Basic Introduction to Jinzhai Black TeaJinzhai is a land renowned for its premium teas, with an environment uniquely suited for tea cultivation. Surrounded by peaks and dense bamboo forests, the area boasts two large reservoirs—Meishan and Xianghongdian—that create a serene landscape of tranquil lakes and lush islands. Natural scenic spots within the region, such as Mount Paradise (Tiantangzhai), Yanzihe Grand Canyon, and Redstone Valley, are known for their unusual rock formations, clear springs, and peaceful surroundings. Jinzhai Black Tea is protected under the national agricultural geographical indication. Nutritional ValueBlack tea is rich in nutrients like carotene, vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, caffeine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, glutamic acid, alanine, and aspartic acid. During the fermentation process, significant chemical reactions occur in the polyphenols present in the fresh leaves, leading to the formation of components like theaflavins and thearubigins. This results in a notable increase in aroma, giving black tea its distinct color, fragrance, and taste. Product CharacteristicsJinzhai Black Tea has a tight, fine appearance with dark lustrous leaves and golden tips. Its liquor is a bright copper-red with an amber halo. It has a sweet smoky aroma and a fresh, mellow taste with a sweet aftertaste. The infused leaves are…

In recent years, Wugang has actively embraced the concept that green waters and green mountains are as valuable as gold and silver. It has focused on improving quality and strengthening brands while innovatively developing its tea industry, paving a path for sustainable, green, and healthy development.The ancient city of Wugang, a blessed land, is located on the eastern slope of the Xuefeng Mountains and upstream of the Zi River, often referred to as the "Tea Village of Wugang." As early as the beginning of the Kangxi era in the Qing Dynasty, the famous Wugang tea "Yunshan Bud Tea" was designated as tribute tea. Currently, Wugang City has a tea plantation area of 20,680 mu, with an annual production of about 936 tons of raw tea, successfully creating more than twenty series under three types of tea brands: green and black tea. These eco-friendly tea gardens have become the "green banks" for the income growth and prosperity of local residents. In Chitang Village, Dengyuantai Town, the Hanling Tea Garden features rows of tea bushes winding through lush greenery, undulating continuously. Tea farmers move busily among them, presenting a bustling scene of tea picking. The Hanling Tea Garden has a long history,…

Aged tea is relatively difficult to brew. It's easy to end up with a weak flavor, thin broth, and even an unpleasant aroma. Even more puzzling is when properly stored tea is brewed into a drink that leaves the throat dry, parched, and tight. This can be quite perplexing. To make aged tea taste good, the author conducted some experiments on issues such as the vessel, water, and brewing techniques. Here are some insights gained. The general approach is as follows: First, analyze the nature of the tea and identify its characteristics; second, determine the brewing goal based on these characteristics, aiming to go with the flow and highlight strengths while mitigating weaknesses; third, consider specific means to achieve this goal; finally, further analyze, validate, and adjust through practice. Brewing Methods and Tips for Aged Pu'er Tea Before brewing aged Pu'er tea, place the clay pot or gaiwan in a tea washer, remove the lid, and pour in 100°C boiling water. Cover the pot and pour boiling water over it. Use a tea tong to pick up the teacups and place them above the tea washer, then pour boiling water over the cups to sterilize them. Next, use a tea…

A pot of tea, the leaves dancing in water, indifferent to joy or sorrow, not competing for morning or night, not sighing at the passage of time. When we drink tea together, we don’t talk about worldly worries. In this cup of tea, there are countless causes and effects, but we need not delve deeply into them. It seems that everything is predestined, accumulated over lifetimes; all we need to do is pick up our teacups. Our meeting in this life, whether it be during autumn’s ripening or spring’s budding. I brew the tea, you come to drink it, and we talk about how the city’s neon lights, no matter how splendid, can never surpass the simple pleasure of trimming a lampwick during leisure time. It is this moment of tranquility that makes us cherish the present time and life, as if in a cycle, like the tea’s cycle of rebirth. The tea in the cup changes from light to dark, floating and sinking, gathering and dispersing. During each tea-drinking session, my heart calmly accepts these changes, brewing with care and drinking with mindfulness. Drinking tea with friends who love tea involves savoring it slowly until it’s fully appreciated. It…

Hello everyone! Today, let’s talk about how to brew Bulang ancient tree tea. Bulang ancient tree tea is loved by many tea enthusiasts for its unique aroma and taste. However, to fully appreciate the best flavor of Bulang ancient tree tea, the brewing method is crucial. In the following, I will introduce in detail the brewing method of Bulang ancient tree tea, hoping to help every tea enthusiast. (Image source: network, delete upon request) What is Bulang Ancient Tree Tea? Bulang ancient tree tea is a type of Pu'er tea, produced in Bulang Mountain, Xishuangbanna Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The ancient tea trees here have a long history, with most being several hundred years old. The leaves of Bulang ancient tree tea are thick and glossy, with a high aroma and rich taste that lingers pleasantly, making it much loved by tea enthusiasts. Preparation of Tools for Brewing Bulang Ancient Tree Tea Before brewing Bulang ancient tree tea, we need to prepare some tools: Teapot or Gaiwan: It is recommended to use a clay teapot or white porcelain Gaiwan, as these can better bring out the aroma of the tea leaves. Teacups: Choose white porcelain teacups, which allow you to better…

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…

Tea utensils are generally used for drinking tea, but few people think creatively about them. However, in real life, there are people who can come up with these creative ideas. One: Usage of the Tea Strainer The tea strainer is placed on the teapot's mouth when adding tea, guiding it into the pot and preventing tea leaves from falling outside the pot. Two: Usage of the Tea Scoop The tea scoop is used to transfer tea into the teapot and is typically made of bamboo. Three: Usage of the Tea Tongs Also known as 'tea chopsticks,' the tea tongs serve the same function as a tea spoon, allowing you to remove tea residue from the pot. They are also often used to hold teacups while washing them, which is both heat-resistant and hygienic. Four: Usage of the Tea Needle The tea needle is used to clear the inner mesh (beehive) of the teapot to ensure smooth water flow. Five: Usage of the Tea Presentation Dish The tea presentation dish serves a similar function to the tea scoop and tea strainer, being a tool for placing tea. However, it also has an aesthetic function for appreciating the tea. Its main use…

In the process of tea tasting, we come across an interesting practice: before brewing the tea leaves, there is always a step called "washing the tea." You may wonder what the necessity of washing tea is and how it affects the taste of the tea. Today, let's delve into the world of tea washing and uncover its secrets! The Significance of Washing Tea Washing tea involves quickly rinsing the leaves with hot water before the actual brewing. This step removes surface dust, impurities, and any residual pesticides. In short, tea washing provides a cleaner and healthier tea-drinking experience. The Benefits of Washing Tea Removing Impurities: During cultivation, transportation, and storage, tea leaves can accumulate dust and impurities, and may have residual pesticides. Washing tea effectively removes these contaminants, making the leaves cleaner. Awakening the Leaves: High-quality tea leaves are like sleeping spirits. Washing them is like gently waking them up with warm water, allowing their aroma and flavor to be fully released. Improving Taste: Washing tea removes bitterness, resulting in a sweeter and richer brew. Enhancing the Experience: The act of washing tea is also a reflection of tea culture. It adds a sense of ritual to tea tasting, helping…

Brewing tea can be simple, a pot and a cup are enough to enjoy the charm of tea. Brewing tea can also be elaborate, an elaborate tea setting adds more flavor to tea tasting. "Elaborate" is a sense of ceremony, and it reflects one’s taste. Each utensil has its purpose, so what kind of tea utensils are there on a tea setting? Today, I have compiled a list of tea utensils for you. Let's see what your tea setting might be missing! Basic Tea Utensils Gaiwan: A gaiwan is a teaware consisting of a lid, bowl, and saucer, mainly used for brewing tea. Teapot: A teapot is a vessel with a spout used for brewing and pouring tea, it is one of the tea utensils primarily used for brewing tea. Fairness Cup: This is a utensil used to evenly distribute the tea liquor before pouring into tasting cups. Tasting Cup: A short cup used for drinking tea. Smelling Cup: Used for smelling the aroma, it is taller and thinner than the tasting cup, often used when brewing highly aromatic Oolong teas from Taiwan. Tea Pad: Smaller than a tea tray, used for holding tasting cups and serving tea. Tea Scoop:…

Tea culture in China has a long history, and the variety of tea brewing tools is vast. Porcelain, as an ancient and elegant tool for brewing tea, has always been favored by tea enthusiasts. But is porcelain really suitable for brewing tea? This article will take you through all aspects of brewing tea with porcelain. (Image source: internet, delete if infringement) Advantages of Brewing Tea with Porcelain Porcelain has been an excellent choice for brewing tea since ancient times, mainly due to the following advantages: 1. Preserves Tea Aroma: The delicate and smooth material of porcelain does not absorb the aroma of the tea, thus it can well preserve the original aroma of the tea leaves. This is particularly important for teas with rich aromas, such as Tieguanyin and Oolong tea. 2. Good Heat Conduction: Porcelain has moderate heat conduction properties, which allows it to evenly disperse heat, keeping the tea temperature stable. This prevents over-steeping or sudden drops in temperature that could affect the taste of the tea. 3. Aesthetically Pleasing: Porcelain is beautifully crafted with rich patterns and designs, offering high aesthetic value. Whether at home or in a teahouse, brewing tea with porcelain is a feast for…

Raw Pu'er tea should be rinsed once. Made from large-leaf sun-dried green tea in Yunnan, raw Pu'er tea is characterized by its rich and strong flavor, full tea aroma, distinct throat resonance, and intense fragrance. Rinsing the tea helps to better activate the tea's vitality, facilitating the release of its aroma and taste substances. However, the number of rinses should not be excessive; generally, one rinse is sufficient. The True Purpose of Rinsing the Tea The true function of rinsing the tea lies in moistening the leaves to allow them to fully expand, also known as "moistening the tea" or "waking up the tea." This process helps to induce the tea's aroma and flavors, which will be better presented after the leaves have expanded, almost as if they are awakened. How to Brew Raw Pu'er Tea 1. Selecting the Utensil The first step in brewing raw Pu'er tea involves choosing the right utensils. Commonly used vessels for raw Pu'er include gaiwans and purple clay pots. Newer raw Pu'er is recommended to be brewed in a gaiwan, while older raw Pu'er is best suited for a purple clay pot. 2. Tea-to-Water Ratio To achieve a good taste, the tea-to-water ratio is…

Before brewing ripened Pu'er tea, first place a purple clay pot or a gaiwan in a tea washer. Remove the lid and pour 100°C boiling water into it, then cover and pour boiling water over the exterior. Use a tea tong to pick up teacups, placing them above the tea washer, and pour boiling water over them to sterilize. Next, use a tea knife or needle to pry about 6-8 grams of tea from a ripened Pu'er cake, with a tea-to-water ratio of 1:15 or 1:20. Place the tea on a tea scale, then use a tea spoon to transfer the tea leaves into the gaiwan or purple clay pot, pouring boiling water over them. Rinse new teas once, and older teas twice! Brew at 95-100 degrees Celsius to increase the smoothness of the tea liquor. When the flavor becomes lighter, you can increase the water temperature. Finally, you can even cook the tea leaves. Pu'er tea is a great health tea, rich in trace elements. Drinking Pu'er tea regularly not only replenishes necessary organic compounds but also boosts the immune system. Drinking this tea aids digestion and absorption and is particularly suitable for women. Pu'er tea is a post-fermented…

When we generally categorize the capacity of a purple clay pot, there are typically five classifications: pots of 100cc or less are considered extra small; those over 100cc but under 200cc are called small; those from 200cc to 350cc are referred to as medium. Pots from 350cc to 600cc are classified as large, and those over 600cc are considered extra large. For one person, a small pot around 100cc or a pot around 200cc would be suitable, depending on your tea consumption. The sizes of teacups used with purple clay pots generally come in three categories: small mouth cups (about 30CC), medium mouth cups (around 50CC), and large mouth cups (approximately 90CC). The so-called golden capacity for pots is usually around 200cc to 300cc, which is ideal for two to three people to enjoy tea, as it provides just enough tea without cooling down too much. A medium-sized pot with a capacity between 200cc to 300cc suits the tea-drinking needs of most people and is also appropriate for an individual's enjoyment, hence being referred to as the "golden capacity." However, this standard is not fixed. When selecting a pot, in addition to considering the "golden capacity," other factors should be…

What is Pu'er Tea Fossil? The Pu'er tea fossil is a special form of ripe Pu'er tea, named for its appearance resembling stone. It is made through a unique fermentation and compression process, possessing a distinctive aged aroma and rich flavor. Not only does the tea fossil perform well during brewing, but it is also favored by tea enthusiasts for its convenient storage and portability. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Preparations for Brewing Pu'er Tea Fossil Before officially starting the brewing process, it is important to prepare the following tools and materials: Teapot or gaiwan: Preferably use a purple clay teapot or gaiwan, as this can better preserve and enhance the aroma and taste of the tea fossil. Teacups: Choose small to medium-sized cups, which are convenient for appreciating the changes in each infusion. Tea cloth and tray: To keep the tea table tidy and facilitate handling. Six Gentlemen of Tea: Auxiliary tools such as tea tongs and tea scoops. How to Brew Pu'er Tea Fossil? The steps for brewing Pu'er tea fossil may seem complex, but they are not difficult once you grasp the essentials. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Washing the Tea Due to its tightly…

Buddhist Hand tea is a unique and fragrant type of tea, loved by many tea enthusiasts for its distinct citrus aroma and distinctive taste. To brew the perfect cup of Buddhist Hand tea, not only do you need high-quality tea leaves, but you also need to master the correct brewing techniques. Today, we will introduce in detail the method of brewing Buddhist Hand tea, so that every tea lover can easily enjoy this delicious, fragrant cup. (Image source: network, delete upon infringement) Selecting High-Quality Buddhist Hand Tea Leaves Before brewing Buddhist Hand tea, you first need to choose high-quality leaves. High-quality Buddhist Hand tea leaves are tightly bound, with a lustrous dark color, a rich and lasting fragrance, and when brewed, they produce a golden-yellow infusion. When purchasing, opt for well-known brands or trusted tea farmers to ensure the freshness and quality of the leaves. Preparations Prepare the following tools and materials: teapot, teacup, tea strainer, tea caddy, boiling water, and an appropriate amount of Buddhist Hand tea leaves. Porcelain or purple clay tea ware is recommended as these materials better retain the aroma and flavor of the tea. (Image source: network, delete upon infringement) Brewing Steps Warming the Teapot…

Tea brewing is both an art and a science. Whether you are new to tea or a seasoned enthusiast, mastering the right brewing techniques can significantly enhance the taste and aroma of your tea. In this article, we will detail key points in tea brewing training, helping you to easily brew the perfect cup at home. (Image source from the internet; delete if infringement occurs) Selection and Storage of Tea Leaves Good quality tea leaves are the foundation of successful brewing. When choosing tea, try to purchase fresh and high-quality leaves. You can smell the leaves when purchasing; fresh tea usually has a rich fragrance. Storing tea is equally important; it is recommended to keep tea in a dry, dark, and sealed container to avoid moisture and unwanted odors. The Importance of Water Quality Water is an essential element in tea brewing. Good water enhances the flavor of the tea, while poor water can ruin it. Generally, it is suggested to use purified or mineral water, avoiding tap water because the chlorine in tap water can affect the taste of the tea. Water temperature is also critical, with different types of tea requiring different temperatures; green tea is best brewed…

Bai Mudan Tea Introduction Bai Mudan tea is a type of white tea that is native to Fujian Province, China. It is named for its flower-like appearance and delicate fragrance. The tea is made from the tender buds and one or two young leaves of the tea plant, which undergo natural withering and slight fermentation. Bai Mudan tea boasts a fresh and sweet taste and is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, providing numerous health benefits. Today, we will delve into how to properly brew a perfect cup of Bai Mudan tea, allowing you to easily enjoy this tranquility and beauty at home. (Image source: Internet - to be deleted upon infringement) Preparation Selecting High-Quality Tea Leaves To brew a good cup of tea, start with high-quality tea leaves. When purchasing Bai Mudan tea, choose leaves that are bright green, reveal silver down, and have intact leaves. High-quality Bai Mudan tea has a fresh aroma, a pale yellow liquor, and a thick, sweet taste. Selecting Suitable Water The water used for brewing significantly affects the taste of the tea. It is best to use mineral water or purified water, avoiding tap water because the chlorine in it can affect the flavor…

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,…

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…

For many people, nothing beats greeting the morning with a nice cup of tea. Its refreshing, clean taste evokes a feeling of calmness and mindfulness. For more than four millennia, tea has delighted, inspired, and satisfied countless drinkers in all corners of the world. Olivia Yang, the author of The Art of Drinking Tea, said that “the Chinese are, without any doubt, the right people to understand everything about tea.” For thousands of years, the Chinese have practiced and maintained the art of tea cultivation, preparation, and consumption. As tea is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, it is best to learn about it from them. Keep reading to know more about the utterly rich Chinese tea culture. Traditional Chinese Tea: The Basics There are several main types of Chinese tea, each one with distinct characteristics. Though all tea came from the same plant source - Camellia sinensis - they can be easily referred to as green tea, yellow tea, white tea, oolong tea, black tea, and dark tea. Here’s a brief description of each tea. Green Tea When you hear the word "tea," green tea is probably what first comes to your mind. After all, this is not just the oldest…