Pu'er tea is divided into raw and ripe varieties, and when storing them, keep the raw and ripe separate to avoid mixing flavors, which can result in a poorer taste experience. Pu'er tea, especially compressed teas, is suitable for long-term storage, as the flavor becomes richer and more mellow over time. For home storage, you can categorize the tea and store it in clean, odorless cardboard boxes away from the kitchen and strong odors, placed on shelves off the ground.
Pu'er Tea Long-Term Storage Methods
1. Container Storage
Pu'er tea can be stored in ceramic jars, purple clay pots, or glass jars, with purple clay pots providing the best storage effects due to their aesthetic appeal, collection value, good thermal insulation, breathability, and airtightness. However, purple clay pots can absorb the aroma of the tea, which may lead to a more delicate fragrance. To prevent dampness, desiccants such as Bamboo charcoal can be added to the container, and when placing the tea, ensure the container is odorless and dry.
2. Whole Piece Storage
Pu'er tea can also be stored whole, but this method is only suitable for unopened cakes and loose tea. The original packaging can be placed in cardboard boxes and stored on a Table that is well-ventilated, dry, and out of direct sunlight. The storage environment should not have any strong odors, as this could affect the taste of the Pu'er tea. If you do not want to store it on a table, place a layer of wood or thick cardboard on the floor to prevent direct contact with the ground and reduce the risk of dampness and mold.
3. Plastic Bag Sealed Storage
Generally, individual Pu'er tea cakes or bricks can be stored in kraft Paper bags, and the packaging should be changed every 2-3 months to allow the tea to breathe, enhancing its aging process. Regular checks for mold should also be conducted. Alternatively, they can be placed in food-grade plastic bags with the air removed and stored at room temperature.
Pu'er Tea Long-Term Storage Taboos
1. Avoid Direct Sunlight
The storage of Pu'er tea should avoid direct sunlight, as it can degrade the chemical compounds in the tea, affecting its taste and aroma. Store Pu'er tea in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
2. Avoid Humid Environments
The storage environment for Pu'er tea should be dry, as moisture can cause the tea to mold. Keep the area where Pu'er tea is stored dry to prevent damp conditions.
3. Avoid Odor Contamination
The taste and aroma of Pu'er tea are crucial, so the storage area should be free from strong odors. If stored in an area with strong odors, the tea will absorb these odors, negatively impacting its taste. The storage area should be kept clean and free from strong odors.
4. Avoid High Temperatures
The storage temperature for Pu'er tea should be below 20°C, as higher temperatures can cause the decomposition of chemical compounds in the tea. Keep the storage area for Pu'er tea at a moderate temperature to avoid excessive heat.