A large number of spring teas, accompanied by their rich aroma, are gradually coming to market. Many people enjoy drinking Tea, not only because it replenishes fluids but also because it aids in digestion, cuts through grease, refreshes the mind, and helps dispel cold from the body. Did you know that there are many nuances to consider when selecting tea, and with just five points in mind, you can pick out good quality tea.
How to Choose the Right Tea for You: 5 Tips to Help You Tell Good from Bad
1. Observe the Dry Tea
Here, it is important to emphasize that beautiful dry tea does not necessarily mean good tea; however, if the dry tea looks of poor quality, it is likely not a high-quality tea. Generally speaking, good tea appears bright in color with uniform texture. While there may be differences in appearance due to grade, if the tea shows darkened colors, uneven texture, and an excessive amount of broken leaves, it is probably of average quality.
2. Observe the Tea Infusion
When observing the tea infusion, the most critical aspect is its clarity. Different types of tea will have varying colors, but when selecting tea, the infusion should always be clear and bright. If it is overly murky or lacks luster, it is not recommended to purchase. When trying tea, it's best not to use a strainer, as this can mask imperfections in the infusion.
3. Smell the Tea Aroma
The aroma here refers to both the scent of the dry tea and the aroma of the infusion. Of course, the aroma will differ based on the type of tea. Some teas have subtle aromas within the infusion, so treat them differently. When smelling the aroma, pay attention to distinguish between excessively strong artificial scents, smoky, aged, burnt, sour, or musty odors that are generally unpleasant. If these scents are present, the tea is likely of average quality. However, some teas are intentionally made with smoky flavors, such as the renowned Wuyi Mountain Smoky Lapsang.
4. Taste the Tea
This is the most direct method. During brewing, we can gain a clear understanding of the tea's quality. Pay attention to the tea's durability in brewing; aside from green and yellow teas, other types are relatively durable. If the flavor significantly diminishes after one or two infusions, take note, as it might be tea that has been artificially enhanced with fragrance. A good tea gives a sense of pleasure when consumed, with a smooth infusion that may have a slight bitterness or astringency but not overly so. It should have a sweet taste upon entry and produce saliva with a lingering sweetness. In these cases, the tea you are drinking is likely of good quality.
5. Observe the Leaf Residue
This is the final step in evaluating the quality of the tea, and many people may overlook the leaf residue. However, we can assess the quality of the tea leaves based on their completeness, tenderness, and suppleness.
Tea originated in China and was used as a vegetable dish during the late Spring and Autumn period. By the middle of the Western Han Dynasty, it had developed into a medicinal use, and it became a common beverage among the general public after the Western Jin Dynasty. Over time, tea has evolved and diversified, now encompassing hundreds of varieties. Based on production methods, there are six major categories: Black Tea, dark tea, green tea, Yellow Tea, oolong tea, and White Tea. No matter what kind of tea flavor you prefer, you can select tea using the above five techniques.