Puer Tea has no expiration date and should be stored in a dry and ventilated environment, with the flavor becoming richer over time. Raw Puer tea requires 5 to 10 years of storage, while ripe tea needs 3 to 5 years. There is a significant difference in storage times between the north and south due to the warm and humid climate in the south, which accelerates transformation but also increases the risk of mold. Many tea enthusiasts know that Puer tea improves with age, but does the same apply to Puer loose tea? Why does some Puer loose tea become less enjoyable after a few years?
Is Puer Loose Tea Suitable for Long-Term Storage?
Puer loose tea isn't ideal for long-term storage due to its structure not being conducive to slow oxidation.
Firstly: Puer loose tea has too much exposure to air, accelerating oxidation and gradually losing its aroma.
Secondly: The rapid oxidation rate robs Puer tea of the delightful changes and surprises at different stages.
Thirdly: Puer tea benefits from being tightly packed, which facilitates the transformation of substances, something that loose tea doesn't have.
Fourthly: Compressed tea undergoes an additional watering process, which is more favorable for the growth of microorganisms, increasing their numbers.
Issues Related to Storing Puer Loose Tea:
(1) Container: The best container for storing Puer loose tea is a breathable clay pot (or jar), followed by a clean old water or rice container that is made of clay without any glaze on the inside.
(2) Packaging Bag: If it's compressed tea, keep the bamboo shell packaging intact when placing it in the clay jar, stacking seven cakes together. For loose tea, use a moisture-proof bag and then place it in a Cardboard box, sealing it with packing tape. A moisture-proof bag is one lined with plastic (available in the market for tea packaging). Using a wax paper aluminum bag would provide even better moisture protection.
(3) Storage Conditions: The storage area should be at least on the second floor and preferably in a building with concrete surroundings. Generally speaking, Humidity should be kept below 75%. In coastal areas with warm maritime climates, humidity can exceed 75% during the Plum rain season, so it's important to open windows to ventilate and reduce moisture.
(4) Temperature: The temperature for storing Puer tea should not be too high or too low, ideally following the natural local environment without artificial adjustments. An indoor temperature of 20–30°C is best. Too high temperatures can cause the tea to ferment too quickly and turn sour.
Long-term storage at lower temperatures (below 5°C) is possible but requires a special precaution: when taking out tea to brew, allow the tea in the jar to slowly return to room temperature before opening the jar to prevent condensation from forming due to temperature differences, which could spoil the tea.