Teas available on the market today are incredibly diverse, ranging from the six major categories and the top ten famous teas to different processing methods that produce sour, authentic flavors, as well as deeper subcategories within each type. The abundance of Tea varieties can be overwhelming!
But what exactly makes a tea the best? Many people wonder about this.
01. Healthy and Safe
First and foremost, tea must be healthy and safe. While tea itself is inherently healthy, the methods used by growers and producers may not always be so.
In pursuit of greater profits, some may neglect ecological balance, leading to extensive cultivation that results in tea plants with less diverse nutritional components, which is not conducive to producing high-quality tea.
Therefore, the first criterion for great tea is that it must be grown in its original, natural environment, or at the very least, in a pesticide-free garden.
02. Suitable for Your Body
Tea contains caffeine and theophylline, which can stimulate the digestive system and nerves. However, differences in processing can lead to varying degrees of stimulation.
For those with sensitive stomachs, it's advisable to Drink warm, non-irritating teas that can help regulate digestion, such as Fu Cha (Fermented Dark Tea), ripe Pu'er, or Black Tea. For individuals prone to heatiness or who have a high internal heat, cooling teas with detoxifying properties, such as white tea or Green Tea, are recommended.
Ultimately, the tea you choose should suit your body; it should feel comfortable and pleasant to drink. Only a tea that meets these criteria can truly be considered great!
03. To Your Taste
Regardless of the type of tea, when purchasing, make sure to buy a tea that you understand and enjoy. Before fully understanding the specific tea you're considering, choose one that tastes good to you and suits your palate.
Today, many renowned tea brands focus on developing the deeper value of their teas. They categorize their offerings finely, ensuring a wide range of flavors.
In summary, when buying tea, whether it's sour, authentic, fragrant, richly aromatic, or has a lingering aftertaste, try it first to ensure it suits your taste before making a purchase!
04. Within Your Budget
Chinese Tea culture is an art of living, and those exorbitantly priced teas often represent values beyond mere consumption. A taste of them occasionally is sufficient.
Just like the variety of flavors, there is a wide range of price points to choose from.
For everyday drinking, under the conditions mentioned above, selecting teas that align with your preferences and are within your budget is a good choice. (Source: Tea Academy Life, Image Source: Tea Friends Network)