Tea Knowledge

Xinyang Maojian, a treasure of Chinese tea culture, has won the affection of tea enthusiasts worldwide with its distinctive taste and quality. Today, we will delve into the grading system of Xinyang Maojian, guiding you through the unique charm of its different grades. I. Overview of Grading for Xinyang Maojian The grading of Xinyang Maojian is primarily based on factors such as appearance, aroma, and taste. Generally, it is divided into several grades including Special Grade, First Grade, Second Grade, and more. Each grade has its own unique qualities and characteristics, catering to diverse consumer preferences. II. Special Grade Xinyang Maojian Special Grade Xinyang Maojian is the highest-quality tea, typically harvested from tender shoots in spring. The leaves are fresh green and evenly colored, covered with white down. This grade of tea has an elegant and lasting aroma, clear and bright infusion, and a rich taste with a strong aftertaste. The production of Special Grade Xinyang Maojian is very limited, making it relatively expensive and a precious tea. III. First Grade Xinyang Maojian First Grade Xinyang Maojian is second only to the Special Grade and is also harvested from tender leaves in spring. The leaves are green and vibrant, with…

Aged tea refers to tea that has been processed from leaves harvested in the previous year or even earlier. Even if stored properly and well-preserved, it is collectively known as aged tea. New tea, by convention, refers to tea made from fresh leaves picked around the Qingming Festival in the same year. What is the difference between new tea and aged tea? 1. Different moisture content New tea generally has a lower moisture content, so the tea leaves are tightly rolled, feel dry to the touch, hard and brittle, and can be easily ground into powder with your fingers. Aged tea, due to long-term storage, has higher moisture content, making the tea wet and heavy. It cannot be crushed into powder with your fingers, and the tea stems are not easy to break. 2. Different colors New tea has a lustrous and vibrant color, clearly green, appearing in shades of light green or dark green. When brewed, the tea has a bright green color that gradually turns slightly yellow, with clear broth and glossy leaves. Aged tea loses its freshness in color and appears dull and less lustrous due to the oxidation of unsaturated components and the slow automatic decomposition…

When you think about teas, you may imagine green (or even dark) leaves – but that is not the case with white tea. Cultivated in the early days before the leaves are fully opened, white tea buds are still covered by fine white hairs, which is why it is named “white tea”. During processing, this type of tea is the least processed tea. It is not oxidized nor rolled, creating a very pure and delicate type of tea. You might be wondering now, why did white tea come into existence in the first place? What does white tea taste like? Are there many types of white tea, and what are the differences? Does white tea contain any caffeine? And is white tea healthy for our body? Read on to learn more about this unique yet delicate type of tea. The history of white tea The history of white tea goes back almost 1,500 years ago to the Tang Dynasty era (618-907 CE) in Fujian Province, the birthplace of Silver Needle (Baihao Yinzhen) white tea. In that era, white tea was a special kind of tea picked in early spring – the perfect time to get the silver needles. Those young…

Montding Sweet Dew Tea is a renowned tea with a long history in China and one of the earliest curly green teas in the country. Moderate consumption during summer has beneficial health effects, making it popular among many tea enthusiasts. However, as a type of green tea, the shelf life of Montding Sweet Dew Tea is similar to other green teas and is not very long. Below are detailed explanations regarding the shelf life of Montding Sweet Dew Tea. How Long is the Shelf Life of Montding Sweet Dew Tea? Montding Sweet Dew Tea belongs to the category of green tea, which is unfermented, hence its shelf life is relatively short. Generally speaking, the shelf life of green tea at room temperature is around one year. However, factors that primarily affect the quality of tea include temperature, light, and humidity. If stored properly, reducing or eliminating these factors can help maintain the freshness of the tea for a longer period. Of course, if you have stored Montding Sweet Dew Tea for an extended period and are unsure whether it has expired, you can judge by observing its taste and the color of the tea infusion. National standards have been set…

Tea enthusiasts are well aware that besides its unique taste, Pu'er tea can be stored for a long time, and the longer it is kept, the better its flavor becomes. As such, many tea lovers frequent mountain country tea franchise stores to sample Pu'er tea. Naturally, the topic of how to best preserve Pu'er tea is of great interest. So, what is the optimal method to preserve Pu'er tea? We generally have four methods for preserving Pu'er tea: Direct preservation, jar preservation method, cost-effective cardboard box preservation method, and fresh preservation method. ① Direct Preservation Pu'er tea can be preserved using multiple paper bags or bamboo shells directly, without needing an outer layer of plastic wrap, which could hinder air circulation. Similarly, there's no need to use refrigerator storage for Pu'er tea. ② Jar Preservation Method Using jars for preservation is a more scientific approach, particularly suitable for Pu'er tea collectors. Well-sealed jars effectively prevent the tea from moisture and oxidation caused by contact with air, and they also help to refresh the tea. We recommend using clay or ceramic jars. It's important not to mix different types of tea in the same container to avoid flavor contamination, as the…

In the process of tea tasting, we come across an interesting practice: before brewing the tea leaves, there is always a step called "washing the tea." You may wonder what the necessity of washing tea is and how it affects the taste of the tea. Today, let's delve into the world of tea washing and uncover its secrets! The Significance of Washing Tea Washing tea involves quickly rinsing the leaves with hot water before the actual brewing. This step removes surface dust, impurities, and any residual pesticides. In short, tea washing provides a cleaner and healthier tea-drinking experience. The Benefits of Washing Tea Removing Impurities: During cultivation, transportation, and storage, tea leaves can accumulate dust and impurities, and may have residual pesticides. Washing tea effectively removes these contaminants, making the leaves cleaner. Awakening the Leaves: High-quality tea leaves are like sleeping spirits. Washing them is like gently waking them up with warm water, allowing their aroma and flavor to be fully released. Improving Taste: Washing tea removes bitterness, resulting in a sweeter and richer brew. Enhancing the Experience: The act of washing tea is also a reflection of tea culture. It adds a sense of ritual to tea tasting, helping…

Pu'er tea can be stored for a long time in a suitable environment, without a definitive expiration date; it can be kept for decades or even centuries. If the storage environment is damp and sealed, the tea leaves may mold and rot. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea, choose a well-ventilated and dry environment, which will facilitate better aging of the Pu'er tea. How long is the shelf life of Pu'er tea? Pu'er tea does not have an expiration date and can be stored for extended periods. During storage, avoid high temperatures and odors, and prevent direct sunlight. Ensure that the storage environment is temperate, humid, oxygenated, and free from odors. Only by scientifically storing the tea can you ensure its quality improves over time. In a suitable environment, Pu'er tea can be stored for a long time without an expiration date. However, if improperly stored, it can spoil and become undrinkable. Under proper storage conditions, Pu'er tea has the characteristic of improving with age. Secondly, to scientifically store Pu'er tea, avoid high temperatures and odors, as well as direct sunlight. Tea is sensitive to light and odors, and direct sunlight can produce a sun-dried flavor. It should not be placed…

After the start of the dog days, most regions in our country officially enter "grill mode." The dog days fall between Minor Heat and Start of Autumn, marking the hottest, most humid, and sultry period of the year. As the saying goes: "It's hot during the dog days." This can be interpreted as: "During the heat, it's better to stay still than to move around." So, how should one maintain health during this season? First Challenge: Nourishing the Heart As temperatures gradually rise, the body's consumption also increases. Once summer arrives, many people feel unwell and lethargic. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), "the summer qi is connected to the heart qi." During this time, nourishing the heart involves two aspects: caring for the blood vessels and adjusting sleep patterns. Caring for Blood Vessels: To care for your blood vessels, it is recommended to maintain a light diet. Eat more foods like onions, mushrooms, black fungus, milk, lotus seeds, and bean products. Try to maintain a calm state of mind and eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to increase fiber intake, vitamin B, and vitamin C, which helps prevent arteriosclerosis. Adjusting Sleep Patterns: Sleep nourishes essence and qi,…

In daily life, to know how to preserve tea, one must first understand what damages it. Only then can one know how to store it to avoid such damage. Different types of tea have different characteristics and are damaged in different ways and to varying degrees, so the methods and requirements for their storage also differ. Many people do not know how to store green tea after opening it, which can lead to the tea going bad or losing its flavor. Under normal circumstances, green tea can be stored at room temperature for about a year; however, once opened, it should be transferred into an airtight container and used within two months if possible. Since green tea is prone to absorbing moisture, even unopened tea stored for too long will lose its aroma, so it should be brewed while fresh. Here are some key taboos to remember when storing green tea: The Five Taboos of Storing Green Tea 1. Avoid Moisture Firstly, one must be very careful to avoid moisture when storing green tea, as most tea enthusiasts know. Most teas have a strong tendency to absorb moisture and humidity. A relative humidity of 60% is suitable for storage, but…

Many of my friends adore Liubao tea. Whenever we gather for a tea session, some tea enthusiasts always request recommendations for one or two daily staple teas. A "daily staple tea" refers to a tea with good quality and flavor that meets one's needs in terms of strength, at a reasonable price, making it suitable for daily consumption. Generally, this type of tea achieves a balance between quality and cost. Inferior teas are disregarded no matter how cheap they may be, but Liubao teas priced over ten thousand yuan per catty, such as the "Wutu Heihe" and 0101 Liubao teas, are clearly not affordable for most people and therefore cannot become the "daily staple tea" loved by ordinary folks. Considering both the desire for a tea that is "delicious" and one that doesn't make you feel guilty about drinking, selecting an appropriate Liubao tea can be quite challenging. The editor has drawn upon the extensive tasting experiences of many Liubao tea enthusiasts and found that the price range for entry-level daily staple teas is typically between 100-200 yuan per catty, while mid-range daily staple teas are priced between 200-500 yuan per catty. Teas priced above 500 yuan per catty are…

 There’s a saying: good water brews good tea. To brew a pot of good tea, one cannot do without good water, illustrating how crucial the quality of water is for tea brewing. Many people are unaware that boiled water used for brewing tea actually has an expiration date. Using water beyond its expiration date to brew tea can not only affect the taste of the tea but also impact health. The Lifespan of a Glass of Water is Up to 16 Hours The shelf life of boiled water in the air is only 16 hours; expired water may contain significantly high levels of E. coli! For healthy individuals, drinking water with bacterial overgrowth over long periods can have a subtle effect on the body, and the longer this continues, the more apparent the impact on health becomes. According to Water Quality Experts, Drinking Stale Water Continuously Is Like Continuously Consuming Food with Additives. If you don't pay attention to the details of drinking water daily, your body's healthy environment can be gradually damaged, potentially leading to poorer health. So when you experience fatigue or a weakened immune system, while paying attention to food hygiene, also check if your drinking habits…

Tea lovers have likely heard about the practice of "washing tea." Some say the first infusion should be discarded, while others disagree. So, should you discard the first infusion? Let's explore this topic today. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) What is "Washing Tea"? The term "washing tea" is familiar; literally, it means "washing the tea leaves." Many people are accustomed to soaking the tea leaves before brewing with a purple clay pot or a covered bowl, then discarding the first infusion, which they call "washing tea." In professional tea ceremony procedures, this is even listed as a mandatory step. But is "washing tea" really necessary? (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) The Historical Origins of "Washing Tea" "Washing tea" has a long history. In the Ming Dynasty, Tu Long's "Kao Pan Yu Shi" mentions: "When brewing tea, first wash the tea with hot water to remove dust, dirt, and coldness, which makes the tea more flavorful." This suggests that the ancient purpose of washing tea was to remove impurities and coldness from the surface of the leaves, thereby improving its taste. However, in modern tea processing, is this practice still necessary? Is "Washing Tea" Necessary for Modern…

Nighttime tea tasting is indeed a delightful affair, but those who have just started drinking tea may find it causes insomnia, which makes them hesitant to enjoy tea in the evening. However, there are ways to drink tea at night without causing sleeplessness. If these methods don't work at first, try them a few more times. People often say that drinking tea can cause insomnia, which is due to the caffeine content in tea. Caffeine is a double-edged sword: it can keep you alert and energetic, making it difficult to fall asleep when it's time to rest, thus leading to insomnia. However, it's not accurate to generalize about the effects of drinking tea on sleep. Firstly, we need to understand that the reason tea can keep you awake is its caffeine content, which is what stimulates your nervous system. The higher the caffeine content, the more stimulating the effect. The amount of caffeine in tea leaves depends on many factors, such as variety, growing conditions, harvesting season, picking standards, and processing methods. The caffeine in tea leaves is relatively stable and does not significantly decrease during the fermentation process. Many people feel that green tea has a higher caffeine content…

Ha / bi / tu / al / ly / br / ew / ing / st / rong / tea To brew a cup of tea with moderate concentration, one generally needs to carefully control the steeping time. Some people prefer strong tea, but if the tea is too strong and releases too much caffeine and tannic acid, it can be overly stimulating to the stomach and intestines. This is not good. St / ee / pin / g / te / a / fo / r / to / o / lo / ng With a normal amount of tea leaves, it's best to drink the tea within one minute of steeping, with some teas requiring only a few seconds or up to ten seconds before they are ready to be poured, and should not be steeped for too long. By this time, 80% of the caffeine and 60% of other soluble substances have been extracted. If steeped for too long, the tea will become bitter and astringent. Br / ew / in / g / te / a / wi / th / a / th / er / mo / s / pot Tea is best…

As is widely known, Fuding white tea enjoys the reputation of being "a one-year tea, a three-year treasure, and a seven-year gem." Besides enjoying its freshness, it's also delightful to anticipate the remarkable changes that occur as the tea ages over time. Drinking fresh white tea allows you to savor its vibrant and refreshing qualities, capturing it at its most tender stage. After 3, 5, 7, 10, or even 20 years of transformation, the appearance, aroma, taste, and color of the tea undergo significant changes. It sheds its youthful characteristics and develops a rich, full-bodied flavor with a lingering aftertaste. At this point, the white tea bears the marks of time and presents a unique character distinct from its fresh state, with a myriad of evolving flavors and pleasant surprises. I. What is the "Transformation" of White Tea? The transformation of white tea refers to the ongoing post-fermentation that occurs during storage, primarily driven by microorganisms. Under suitable conditions, this process continues indefinitely without stopping. II. Why Can White Tea Transform? The transformation of any tea involves three key factors: oxidation, the participation of beneficial microorganisms, and the internal substances within the tea leaves. The simple processing method of white…

What is mid-age Pu'er tea? In recent years, mid-age teas have become increasingly popular, with many tea enthusiasts preferring to purchase these teas that have aged for a certain number of years and are more affordable than older teas. So, how should one select suitable mid-age teas? Mid-age Pu'er tea generally refers to Pu'er tea that has been naturally stored and aged for 10 to 20 years. Some people consider 5 to 10 years old Pu'er tea as mid-age, but the market generally agrees that over 10 years is a more appropriate dividing line. From a vintage perspective, Pu'er tea produced roughly between 2000 and 2010 falls within the category of mid-age Pu'er tea. From an aging standpoint, the liquor turns to an orange-red color, sweetness increases, the mouthfeel becomes smooth and full-bodied, and palatability improves—these are the characteristics of mid-age Pu'er tea after aging. Currently in the Pu'er tea market, due to the scarcity and high prices of older teas and the low palatability of new teas in their initial stages of transformation, mid-age Pu'er teas that have aged for a certain period and offer good value for money have become the top choice for many tea enthusiasts to…

Quality ripe tea can be stored for about 10-30 years. The duration for which ripe tea can be stored is influenced by many factors, such as the variety of the tea, manufacturing process, storage method, and origin. Here are some key points to consider when storing ripe tea: avoid contamination, high temperatures, moisture, light exposure, and odors. These "five avoids" can extend the storage time and improve the quality of the ripe tea to the greatest extent. However, not all ripe teas are suitable for long-term storage; it depends on the specific tea. Methods for Storing Ripe Tea 1. Permeable Storage Ripe tea contains fermenting aromas and other substances. If stored too airtight, the tea can become damp and moldy. Therefore, when storing ripe tea, ensure good air permeability and prevent dampness. It's best to store ripe tea in a dry and ventilated place, such as a low-humidity attic, cabinet, or room. 2. Avoid Light Exposure Light is the enemy of ripe tea, as it can destroy effective components in the tea leaves, causing them to deteriorate. Therefore, when storing ripe tea, avoid exposing it to sunlight and keep it in a cool, dry place. 3. Clean Storage Containers The…

Yiwu Gafengzhai is located in Majie Village, northwest of Mengla County, Xishuangbanna. It is a village inhabited by the Yao people. Named “Gafengzhai” (Wind-swept Village), it stands at a wind-exposed spot surrounded by mountains, with a stream flowing in front and winds passing through the village. This village has the highest elevation among the Seven Villages of Yiwu and produces the least amount of tea, yet it boasts the most intact ancient tea trees. The teas from Gafengzhai can be categorized into several areas. The ancient tree tea commonly referred to as Gafengzhai is from the non-state-owned forest. The state-owned forest area includes the King Tree, Tea Field, Cold Water River, and White Sand River. The prices of these teas vary according to factors such as the age of the trees and the location. Its fresh tea has a rich floral aroma, which later transforms into fruity, honey, and woody scents. The taste evolves from sweet to robust, with a pronounced wild character. When sipped carefully, the tea reveals a smooth and lingering texture. Gafengzhai belongs to Yiwu Town, Mengla County, and sits at an altitude of around 1,200 meters, bordering Laos near boundary marker No. 14. It takes about…

Pu'er tea is primarily divided into raw and ripe varieties. How do you choose an affordable yet delicious raw Pu'er tea? How to Select Raw Pu'er Tea? 1. Start by examining the tea cake. Look for signs that it's spring tea, which usually has some yellowish leaves on its surface. Check for "hoof prints," as spring tea buds and leaves are slightly fatter than those of autumn tea. The texture of autumn tea appears smoother and more linear compared to spring tea, with longer and finer strands. Autumn tea doesn't have yellowish leaves and looks very clean. 2. Smell the tea cake. Good tea should have a dry aroma and no off odors. If there are any unusual smells, immediately discuss this with the seller to determine the cause. Be cautious when tasting the tea later. 3. After rinsing the tea, pay attention to the clarity of the infusion in the teapot. A good infusion should be very clear, with a light yellow color for new teas. 4. When tasting, judge your initial impression. If the tea is very astringent, see if there is a subsequent production of saliva that mitigates the astringency. If, after swallowing the tea and then…

Not every tea is created equal. Some of them may be light and breezy, and others may be richer and more mellow. Pu-erh tea belongs to the latter. Pu-erh tea is a special type of dark tea made in Yunnan, China. It is special because it tastes better as it ages – just like wine. Pu-erh tea undergoes a fermentation process when it ages, creating a richer taste in every cup. In China and Hong Kong, pu-erh tea is usually consumed with dim sum. In other parts of the world, pu-erh tea is more known for its good reputation of health benefits. But what exactly is pu-erh tea? Find your answers here: the history, flavor, types, caffeine content, health benefits, brewing method, and where to find the best ones. The history of pu-erh tea The history of pu-erh tea can be traced back to more than a thousand years ago, during the Tang Dynasty era (618-917 CE). Back then, tea was traded all across China and its neighboring regions, including to the Tibetan plateau. Since the Tibetan plateau could not produce their own teas, they depended on Chinese traders who traveled for months to reach Tibet. One of the tea-producing…

What is 316 Stainless Steel? 316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel containing molybdenum, which gives it superior corrosion resistance and high-temperature strength compared to other types of stainless steel. 316 stainless steel is commonly used in medical devices, food processing equipment, chemical containers, and other fields where material requirements are high. It contains 2-3% molybdenum, which enables it to maintain excellent corrosion resistance even at high temperatures. Advantages of 316 Stainless Steel Water Cups Water cups made from 316 stainless steel have many advantages that make them an ideal choice for brewing tea: (Image source: network, delete upon request) Strong Corrosion Resistance: The corrosion resistance of 316 stainless steel is very good, effectively preventing the corrosive effect of acidic substances in tea on the cup. Safe and Non-toxic: 316 stainless steel is harmless to the human body and does not release harmful substances, making it very suitable for brewing tea and storing drinking water. Easy to Clean: The smooth surface of 316 stainless steel makes it difficult for tea stains and bacteria to adhere, making cleaning very convenient. Durable: 316 stainless steel is strong and durable, resistant to deformation or damage, and has a long service life. Precautions…

The primary differences in nutritional components between cold-brewed and hot-brewed tea lie in the rate and total amount of certain compounds dissolved from the tea leaves, as follows: Antioxidant activity: Cold-brewed tea better preserves beneficial substances in the tea, such as polyphenols, due to reduced damage to the tea leaf cell structure by high temperatures. Some studies show that cold-brewed tea has stronger antioxidant activity than hot-brewed tea. Caffeine content: The dissolution of caffeine is significantly influenced by temperature; it dissolves quickly at high temperatures but very slowly below 60°C. Therefore, cold-brewed tea typically contains less caffeine, making it suitable for those sensitive to caffeine or concerned about its impact on sleep. Polyphenol dissolution: Polyphenols still dissolve relatively well at lower temperatures. Due to the longer brewing time, polyphenols and other beneficial substances in the tea leaves dissolve in cold-brewed tea. However, the relative caffeine content is greatly reduced, while the relative content of polyphenols and theanine increases, resulting in a tea with virtually no bitterness but a prominent aroma and a generally sweet taste. Taste and color: Compared to hot-brewed tea, cold-brewed tea usually has a sweeter taste and a lighter color. This is mainly because high temperatures easily…

How do you store Tieguanyin to become high-quality "aged Tie"? What factors affect the storage of Tieguanyin? Should you keep Tieguanyin in the fridge? Today, I'll guide you step-by-step on how to properly store Tieguanyin. Avoid Exposure to Light Light can cause a photosensitive reaction in Tieguanyin tea, causing it to darken. Therefore, it's important to avoid light exposure during storage. Should Tieguanyin Be Stored in the Fridge? It's not necessary to store it in the fridge, but if long-term storage is required, refrigeration is recommended. At a refrigerated temperature of -4°C, the tea can maintain its original quality and flavor well; at -40°C, the oxidation rate of the tea becomes very slow. Although low temperatures reduce the oxidation rate of tea, it's still advisable to consume opened tea as soon as possible. This is because tea has strong adsorption and hygroscopic properties, and if stored in a damp or odorous environment, it can easily absorb odors and become damp. The Container Used for Storing Tieguanyin Must Be Airtight Some people forget to close the lid after opening the jar, or the material does not seal properly. Over time, the tea naturally loses its flavor. I've compiled information about three…

There are many types of green tea, with West Lake Longjing being the most well-known. Types of green tea include: Biluochun, West Lake Longjing, Meitan Green Bud, Xinyang Maojian, Liuan Melon Seed, Dafolongjing, Huangshan Maofeng, Anji White Tea, Lushan Cloud Mist, Taiping Houkui, Rizhao Green Tea, Duyun Maojian, Mount Meng Shihua, Enshi Yulu, Zuyeqing, Hanzhong Immortal Tip, Wuyuan Green Tea, Emei Tea Sprout, Guzhang Maojian, Jintan Quetshe, Yandang Maofeng, Wuniuzao, Laozhu Dafang, and more. What are the different types of green tea? 1. Stir-fried green tea: Due to the mechanical or manual force applied during the drying process, the finished tea takes various shapes such as long, round, flat, needle-like, and spiral, thus it can be further divided into long stir-fried, round stir-fried, and flat stir-fried teas. After refinement, long stir-fried green tea is called eyebrow tea, with varieties like Zhenmei, Gongxi, Yutcha, Needle Eyebrow, Xiamei, each having distinct quality characteristics. 2. Zhenmei (Eyebrow Tea): The leaves are finely twisted and straight, resembling the delicate eyebrows of a maiden, with a lustrous green color, high and fresh aroma, strong and refreshing taste, and a slightly yellow-green soup and leaf base that are bright. 3. Gongxi (Imperial Eyebrow): This is the…