Tea, as an integral part of Chinese traditional culture, is not just a beverage but also a representation of a way of life. From green tea to black tea and Pu'er tea, each type has its unique flavor and brewing method. In this article, we will delve into the varieties of tea, methods of brewing, and how to select appropriate tea ware.
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Green Tea: The Representative of Freshness and Elegance
Green tea is an unfermented tea known for its fresh Taste and rich nutritional value. Common types include Longjing, Biluochun, and Mao Feng.
Brewing Method: The brewing of green tea requires attention to water temperature and time. Generally, use water around 80°C, with a brewing time of 1-2 minutes. Higher temperatures or longer times can destroy the fragrance and taste of the green tea.
Tea Ware Selection: Glass cups or porcelain cups are suitable, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the leaves unfolding in the water.
Black Tea: Rich and Smooth Flavor
Black tea is a fully fermented tea renowned for its strong aroma and sweet taste. Notable black teas include Keemun, Darjeeling, and Ceylon.
Brewing Method: Black tea requires hot water at 90-95°C, brewed for 3-5 minutes. This allows the full release of the tea's aroma and flavor.
Tea Ware Selection: Porcelain or clay tea ware is suitable for black tea, better maintaining the temperature and aroma of the tea.
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Oolong Tea: Between Green and Black
Oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea that combines the freshness of green tea with the richness of black tea. Common oolong teas include Tieguanyin and Dahongpao.
Brewing Method: Oolong tea requires boiling water, with a brewing time of 1-2 minutes. It can be steeped multiple times, with each subsequent brewing time slightly increased.
Tea Ware Selection: Purple clay pots or covered bowls are ideal, providing good heat retention for multiple steepings.
White Tea: Symbol of Natural Purity
White tea is a minimally processed tea known for its natural production methods and light taste. Renowned white teas include Bai Hao Yin Zhen and Pai Mu Tan.
Brewing Method: The brewing temperature for white tea should not be too high, generally around 80-85°C, with a brewing time of 2-3 minutes.
Tea Ware Selection: Glass tea ware is suitable, allowing for a better appreciation of the tea's color.
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Pu'er Tea: The Unique Charm of Aging
Pu'er tea is a post-fermented tea loved for its distinctive aged fragrance and rich layers of flavor. Pu'er tea comes in two types: raw and ripe.
Brewing Method: Pu'er tea requires boiling water, with a brewing time of 3-5 minutes. It can be steeped multiple times, with each subsequent brewing time gradually increased.
Tea Ware Selection: Purple clay pots or ceramic tea ware are suitable for Pu'er tea, enhancing both the aroma and taste.
Flower Tea: Perfect Combination of Floral and Tea Aromas
Flower tea is made by blending tea leaves with flowers, giving it a unique floral aroma. Common flower teas include jasmine tea and osmanthus tea.
Brewing Method: Flower tea requires water at 80-90°C, with a brewing time of 2-3 minutes.
Tea Ware Selection: Glass tea ware is suitable, allowing for a better appreciation of the flowers blooming in the water.
Selecting Suitable Tea Ware
Brewing tea requires not only good tea but also appropriate tea ware. Different tea wares not only affect the taste of the tea but also enhance the experience of tea tasting.
Purple Clay Pot: Purple clay pots have good breathability and heat retention, making them suitable for brewing oolong tea and Pu'er tea.
Glass Tea Ware: Glass tea ware is transparent and beautiful, suitable for brewing green tea, white tea, and flower tea, showcasing the appearance of the leaves and the color of the tea.
Ceramic Tea Ware: Ceramic tea ware has a high density and good heat retention, suitable for brewing black tea, better preserving the aroma of the tea.
Conclusion
Tea culture is vast and profound, with different types of tea and brewing methods having their own characteristics. Choosing the right tea ware adds to the enjoyment. Amidst our busy lives, brewing a cup of tea and savoring it quietly can bring us tranquility and peace in the aroma of the tea.