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 with a strong, lingering aroma; the taste is fresh, sweet, and refreshing, with a long aftertaste; and the tea leaves are flat, smooth, and resemble the tongue of a sparrow.
Production Areas and Classification
The primary production areas for Longjing tea are located in Zhejiang Province, including the West Lake area, the Qiantang area, and the Yuezhou area. Due to differences in climate, soil conditions, and other factors, the quality of Longjing tea varies between these regions. Among them, Longjing tea from the West Lake area is the most famous, especially that from Lion Peak Mountain, which is considered the best of the best.
Cultivation and Harvesting of Longjing Tea
The cultivation of Longjing tea requires extremely high environmental standards, necessitating tea gardens at higher elevations with humid climates and fertile soils. Every spring, around the Qingming Festival, tea farmers begin harvesting Longjing tea. Only the tender buds or one bud and one leaf are picked to ensure freshness and quality. After harvesting, the tea leaves undergo processes such as spreading out, fixation, rolling, and drying before they can be made into Longjing tea.
brewing Methods for Longjing Tea
The method of brewing Longjing tea is also particular. There are three common methods: top pouring, middle pouring, and bottom pouring. Top pouring involves pouring water first and then adding the tea, allowing the leaves to slowly unfurl in the water; middle pouring involves pouring a third of the water first, then adding the tea, and finally filling the vessel with water; bottom pouring involves adding the tea first and then pouring water. Each method has its own merits but all showcase the color, aroma, taste, and shape of Longjing tea effectively.
Health Benefits and Effects of Longjing Tea
As a type of green tea, Longjing tea is rich in various beneficial components for human health. It not only invigorates and refreshes the mind but also has antioxidant properties, helps reduce fat and cholesterol, and provides various health benefits. In addition, the polyphenols and vitamin C in Longjing tea can enhance the body's immune system and delay aging.
Selecting High-Quality Longjing Tea
When selecting Longjing tea, there are several key points to consider. First, look at the shape of the tea leaves; high-quality Longjing tea should have tightly compacted leaves resembling the tongue of a sparrow. Second, examine the color of the tea leaves; high-quality Longjing tea should have a tender green, bright color. Third, smell the aroma of the tea leaves; high-quality Longjing tea should have a clear, lasting fragrance. Finally, taste the infusion; high-quality Longjing tea should produce a clear infusion with a fresh, sweet taste.
Conclusion
Longjing tea is not just a beverage, but also a symbol of culture. It carries thousands of years of history and culture, embodying the essence of nature and the wisdom of humanity. In savoring Longjing tea, we not only experience its unique aroma and taste but also gain insight into the profound heritage of Chinese Tea culture. If you haven't tried Longjing tea yet, find an opportunity to do so and personally experience the unique charm of this “Queen of Green Teas.”