In the world of Tea, tea stems, often overlooked as the “green Leaf,” actually play an indispensable role, particularly in dark tea. They are not only a source of aroma but also a flavor harmonizer. This article delves into the unique value of tea stems in dark tea and how they influence its aroma and taste, inviting you to appreciate the charm of tea stems.
Tea Stems: The Source of Dark Tea's “Perfume”
Tea stems contain rich aromatic substances. During the production of dark tea, these aromatics release from the stems, Blending with the buds and leaves, combining with the active components of the tea to transform into higher-quality fragrances. An appropriate amount of tea stems, like the base notes in perfume, adds depth and layers to the dark tea, making its aroma richer and more lasting.
Tea Stems: The Choice “Flavor Enhancer” for Dark Tea
Mature tea stems contain more tea polysaccharides, proteins, minerals, and other components than tender leaves. These water-soluble substances dissolve quickly in the tea infusion during brewing, enriching the mouthfeel and making it fuller and smoother. The Theanine in tea stems gives dark tea a distinctive freshness, enhancing its overall flavor and turning it into a feast for the palate.
Tea Stems: The “Greenhouse Bed” for Golden Flowers
For Fu brick tea, a treasure among dark teas, the flowering process is crucial for its quality. The golden fungus, known as golden flowers, is a hallmark of Fu brick tea. The air gaps in tea stems provide the necessary oxygen for the growth of golden flowers, ensuring their lush development. An adequate amount of tea stems acts like a greenhouse for golden flowers, providing them with an ideal growing environment, resulting in a plentiful number of golden flowers and a uniquely aromatic tea.
Tea Stems: The Key to Quality Balance
However, too many or too long tea stems can result in a coarse flavor in the tea infusion, affecting the drinking experience. Therefore, the control of tea stems in the production of dark tea is highly meticulous, aiming to enhance both aroma and taste while avoiding any negative impact on the tea infusion's delicacy. This balance is where the subtlety of dark tea production lies.
Conclusion: Tea Stems, the Treasure of Dark Tea
In summary, tea stems play a vital role in dark tea. They are not only a source of aroma but also a flavor harmonizer and a greenhouse for golden flowers. An appropriate amount of tea stems achieves a perfect balance between aroma and taste, making dark tea a true gem. Therefore, we should not be overly concerned about tea stems but instead embrace them with an open mind, appreciating the unique charm they bring and experiencing the profound cultural heritage of dark tea.
When tasting dark tea, take the time to savor the tea stems; they are not just decorations in the tea infusion but also embody the soul of dark tea. Underestimated elements, tea stems are in fact key to the quality and flavor of dark tea. Let us look at tea stems with greater inclusiveness and appreciation, re-discovering them and enjoying the unique pleasures that dark tea offers.