Tea Knowledge

Liubao tea, named after Liubao Town in Cangwu County, Wuzhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is unique as a low-temperature fermented tea stored in bamboo baskets, cellars, caves, or wooden dry warehouses (other dark teas are typically border trade teas). Its distinctive taste has garnered many fans.Historically, there was not only the Tea Horse Road but also a Tea Ship Ancient Route, which started right here in Liubao, Guangxi. The people of Wuzhou used inland waterways to transport goods such as tea and porcelain to all corners of the world, establishing extensive trade relations with the outside world, forming a profound historical legacy known as the “Ancient Tea Ship Route.” The route began in Dabao, Guangxi, followed the Liubao River, proceeded along the Dong'an River, passed through the Hejiang River, entered the Xijiang River, and reached Guangzhou, connecting to the maritime Silk Road for tea shipments. This route was unique in linking Guangxi, Guangdong, Hong Kong, and directly reaching Southeast Asia. Through this ancient tea ship route, Liubao tea emerged from the mountains, crossed oceans, and became one of the key commodities on the maritime Silk Road. The history of tea production and processing in Liubao can be traced back…

You may have heard of cold-brew coffee, but have you ever heard of cold-brew tea? Yes, that thing exists! Cold-brew tea has actually been around for a while, but its popularity is not as high as its hot-brew counterparts. In this article, you will find out more about the history of cold-brew tea, the innovative ways of cold-brewing teas, the caffeine level of cold-brew tea, the differences between cold-brew tea and iced tea and hot-brew tea, and of course, the health benefits of cold-brew tea! Interested? Read more to find out! Traditional way of Cold-brew Cold-brew tea is not a new innovation. The Japanese have long believed that hot-brewing tea destroys the tea’s natural benefits as it burns the tea, which gave rise to the traditional way of cold-brewing teas: steeping tea in cold water for hours. However, this process may take a long time to finish – from 6 to 24 hours. Our way of Cold-brew In this fast-moving world, it is always convenient to have the instant option for our everyday necessities – and that includes cold-brew teas! If you are looking for the natural benefits and low caffeine level of cold-brew tea but steeping your tea for…

How much tea a day, keeps the doctors away? About 500ml - 600ml. Being a health-conscious tea lover, I would sometimes wonder, is drinking too much tea cause harm to my body? There’s an old Chinese saying, “Sometimes enough is enough, too much water drowns the miller”. A fellow tea enthusiast once asked me: “Is it a problem if I replace water with tea and only drink tea every day?” Well, yes - this would cause a problem. It is healthy to have a regularly tea-drinking habit, but if you only hydrate your body with tea, this is not good. Another misconception that a lot of people have is that we should drink as much tea as we can because drinking tea is healthy. Along with these misconceptions, comes a range of serious health issues. Why do we have to drink tea daily? What nutrition or substance does our body consume the most when we drink tea? Is it tea polyphenol? Is it caffeine or theanine? Actually, the correct answer is H2O, Water! Our body loses a huge amount of fluids every day, we dehydrate when we sweat, when we go to the bathroom etc. Most adults need to rehydrate their…

The purple clay teapot, having undergone a millennium of heritage, has become an indispensable part of Chinese tea culture. From ancient times to the present, literati and artists have been infatuated with the purple clay teapot, endowing it with unique cultural connotations. So, what is the reason behind the purple clay teapot's enduring popularity? Today, let's explore together the five major advantages of brewing tea with a purple clay teapot! 1. Unique Dual-Pore Structure, Releasing the True Aroma of Tea The purple clay teapot is made from original purple clay ore, and its dual-pore structure is the key to its tea-brewing advantages. The clay material of the purple clay teapot contains microscopic pores invisible to the naked eye that can effectively absorb the aroma compounds of tea leaves and slowly release them into the tea infusion, making the aroma richer and more lasting. Imagine when you brew a cup of hot tea with a purple clay teapot, gently inhaling the aroma, the refreshing fragrance invades your senses, the rich and fragrant aroma lingers for a long time, leaving one refreshed and uplifted. This is the enchanting charm brought by the unique dual-pore structure of the purple clay teapot. 2. Excellent…

If you are an avid tea drinker, there is a possibility that you are also an avid tea buyer. You may have an extensive collection of different types of teas, which may or may not be in a proper container. But what exactly is the proper way to store loose leaf tea? Are some containers better than others? First, you should know the things to consider when storing loose leaf tea. Things to Consider When Storing Loose Leaf Tea There are five things you should consider when storing your favorite loose leaf tea if you want to keep your tea fresh. Moisture The words “tea” and “moisture” cannot be good friends because tea’s flavor becomes weaker when exposed to moisture. Or worse, your tea can get moldy! As a rule of thumb, you would only want moisture to meet your tea when you are brewing it before drinking (a.k.a. when tea meets water). Other than that, you have to store your loose leaf tea away from moisture! But it is not as simple as keeping it away from water or dampness. Because tea is hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air, you should also block the moisture…

Bai Mudan, one of the six major types of Chinese tea, known as white tea, is loved by many tea enthusiasts for its delicate aroma and refreshing taste. However, maintaining the high quality of Bai Mudan depends on proper storage methods. This article provides professional storage techniques for loose leaf Bai Mudan, ensuring your tea stays in optimal condition. Why Proper Storage Is Crucial for Bai Mudan The aroma and flavor of Bai Mudan can change based on storage conditions. Improper storage can cause the tea to lose its original character or even become moldy. Therefore, understanding how to store Bai Mudan correctly is essential for preserving its quality. Factors Affecting Bai Mudan Storage Several key factors impact the storage quality of Bai Mudan, including temperature, humidity, light exposure, oxygen, and odors. Temperature: High temperatures can accelerate oxidation, affecting the tea's flavor. Humidity: Excessive moisture can lead to the tea absorbing moisture and developing mold. Light: Direct sunlight over time can degrade chlorophyll in the leaves, affecting their color. Oxygen: Too much oxygen exposure can speed up the oxidation process. Odors: Tea easily absorbs surrounding odors, which can affect its pure aroma. Storage Methods for Loose Leaf Bai Mudan Here…

How vast can a cup of tea be? It's no more than a teacup. When it comes to the necessities of life—firewood, rice, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and tea—it represents daily living. When it comes to the refined pursuits of life—music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, liquor, and tea—it signifies elegance. Sometimes, however, it's simply a painting within the mundane world. The essence of plants, recognizing tea by its aroma, is akin to meticulous brushwork. Drinking tea has always been a leisurely affair, much like detailed brushwork that outlines the most delicate curves of a leaf. A person who is perpetually busy would not have the heart to drink tea. The preciousness of tea has never been about being high and mighty. It doesn't require wealth but rather, time. It doesn't demand expertise in tea ceremony or knowledge of its etiquette; instead, it merely wishes for people to witness its youthful appearance in its single, earnest blooming. Thus, how could one bear to neglect the unique flavors of each brew amidst their hustle and bustle? A fine cup of tea needs someone with both time and heart to appreciate it fully. A tea plant's youth is entrusted into the hands…

Osmanthus, a fragrant plant widely cultivated in southern China, is not only an ornamental flower but also an excellent ingredient for brewing tea. Osmanthus tea, with its unique aroma and various health benefits, has gradually become a new favorite in people's daily beverages. Today, let’s talk about everything related to brewing osmanthus tea. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) The History and Culture of Brewing Osmanthus Tea The history of brewing osmanthus tea can be traced back to ancient times when the Chinese had already discovered the medicinal value and unique fragrance of osmanthus. In traditional Chinese medicine, osmanthus tea is used as a remedy for warming the stomach, relieving pain, clearing phlegm, and stopping coughs, and it is also considered a beverage with health-preserving properties. In literary works, osmanthus tea is often mentioned, becoming the subject of poetry and prose by literati. Health Benefits of Osmanthus Tea Osmanthus tea not only has a pleasant aroma but also many health benefits: 1. Relieves Cough: Osmanthus has the effect of clearing phlegm and stopping coughs, suitable for people prone to colds and coughs in winter. 2. Improves Digestion: Osmanthus tea can warm the stomach and relieve pain, helping to alleviate symptoms…

There's a popular saying about white tea: "One-year tea, three-year medicine, seven-year treasure." White tea can be divided into new and aged white tea based on the duration of storage: New white tea is that year's freshly picked and processed tea, while aged white tea has been stored for several years, acquiring distinct characteristics of an older tea. However, distinguishing between new and aged white teas can be challenging. Today, we will compare the appearance and quality of one-year new tea, three-year aged tea, and seven-year aged tea to help you discern and appreciate them. Appearance of One-Year New Tea Naturally spread out, with plump and upright buds; mostly intact leaves with slight breakage; clear and complete bud and leaf structure. The leaves display natural hues of gray-green and light green, with a fresh luster. The beautiful contrast of light blue on the top and white on the bottom of the leaves is visible. Abundant, soft silver-white downy hairs; fragrant with a fresh floral and downy aroma. Quality The liquor of new tea is bright and pale almond yellow in color, with a particularly fresh, sweet taste. Appearance of Three-Year Aged Tea The integrity of three-year aged tea is slightly…

The shelf life of tea is not clearly defined, and it varies for different types of tea. For example, black tea can be stored for 2 to 3 years; green tea and yellow tea are typically best consumed within 18 months; oolong tea can be stored for 3 to 5 years; and dark tea and white tea, if properly preserved, can last around 15 years. There are six main categories of Chinese tea, each with its own storage duration. Do you know how long they can be stored? The Shelf Life of the Six Types of Tea 1. Green Tea: The shelf life of green tea is the shortest. Generally, at room temperature, it has a shelf life of about one year. If you have a dedicated refrigerator for storing green tea (which would make you quite the tea connoisseur), the shelf life can be extended to around 18 months. 2. Black Tea: As a fully fermented tea, black tea has a relatively long shelf life and can be stored for more than two years. However, if stored properly, it may undergo transformation after two years. If this transformation is successful, it can be stored for even longer periods. 3.…

In the world of tea, like the distinct characters in a literary work, different types of tea are often compared. In the realm of white tea, Bai Mudan and Silver Needle are like two distinctive beauties, each with their own unique charm and grace. I. Bai Mudan: The Floral White Tea Fairy Bai Mudan is a unique sight in the world of white tea. It blends the elegance of Silver Needle with the deep, mellow flavor of Shoumei, like a masterful combination that radiates its own special brilliance on the stage of white teas, earning it the name “Floral Fairy of White Tea.” When boiling water is poured into the bowl, a wonderful olfactory feast begins. The fresh scent of downy leaves greets us first, as if to say hello, telling us we are about to experience a delightful journey through the fragrances of tea. Then, layer upon layer of floral aromas follow, intertwining and distinct yet harmoniously coexisting. The delicate fragrance of orchids is akin to dewdrops glistening in the morning light, with an untouchable purity. Imagine, in the morning light, orchids with dewdrops, exuding a gentle fragrance, a scent that seems to penetrate the soul, bringing a sense…

Have you ever wondered how many times a small tea leaf can be steeped? As a tea lover, this question has always intrigued me. The number of times tea leaves can be steeped not only affects the taste of the tea but also relates to our overall tea-drinking experience. Today, let’s explore this topic together. (Image source: network, delete upon request) The Type of Tea Determines the Number of Steeps Different types of tea have different numbers of steeps. Generally speaking, green tea and white tea can be steeped fewer times, while oolong tea, black tea, and Pu’er tea can be steeped more times. Green tea can typically be steeped 2-3 times. Since green tea leaves are tender, they lose their aroma and flavor after multiple steeps. White tea is similar and can generally be steeped around 3 times. Oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea with thicker leaves and a high tolerance for steeping, allowing it to be steeped 5-7 times. Black tea can be steeped between 3-5 times, while Pu’er tea, due to its unique fermentation process, can be steeped even more than 10 times. Factors Affecting the Number of Steeps Besides the type of tea, there are other…

Dandelion root tea is a highly recommended health drink. Not only does it have a unique taste, but it also offers various health benefits such as aiding digestion, diuresis, and antioxidant properties. Today, we will explore in detail how to prepare dandelion root tea so that you can easily enjoy this natural beverage at home. Collection and Processing of Dandelion Roots To make dandelion root tea, you first need fresh dandelion roots. It's best to choose dandelions grown in an unpolluted environment to ensure their medicinal value and safety. The steps are as follows: Collecting Dandelion Roots: In spring or autumn, use a small shovel to dig up the dandelions with their roots intact. Ensure that the roots are complete, as they are the main ingredient for the tea. Cleaning and Trimming: Thoroughly wash the dandelion roots with water to remove soil and impurities. Trim off fine hairs and damaged parts of the roots. Slicing: Slice the dandelion roots thinly to facilitate subsequent drying and storage. Drying Dandelion Roots Drying is a crucial step in preparing dandelion roots. Well-dried root slices are not only easy to store but also better preserve their nutritional components and medicinal value. There are several…

Quality Pu'er tea is the result of quality fresh leaves + excellent production + good storage. Pu'er tea has the characteristic of becoming more fragrant with age, which is also the reason why tea enthusiasts enjoy collecting it. When collecting Pu'er tea, storage is an extremely important aspect. The Importance of Storage for Pu'er Tea Mentioning Pu'er tea, one cannot avoid the topic of "becoming more fragrant with age." For Pu'er tea to become more fragrant over time, it not only requires high-quality raw materials and strict production processes but also appropriate storage. Good storage can make the taste of Pu'er tea increasingly rich, bringing pleasure to those who drink it. On the other hand, poor storage not only ruins a good tea but also saddens the person storing it. Therefore, good storage is very important for the quality of Pu'er tea to improve over time. What are the main factors that determine the quality of Pu'er tea storage? The four primary factors that determine the aging condition of Pu'er tea are temperature, humidity, ventilation, and absence of foreign odors. The ideal environment for storing Pu'er tea should have a moderate temperature; if too high, it may accelerate the aging…

Pu'er tea, in terms of its appearance when made into tea, comes in different forms such as tea cakes, tuocha, brick tea, and loose tea. Among these, tea cakes are the most common. Pu'er tea is favored by tea enthusiasts for its unique taste and health benefits. So, how should Pu'er tea cakes be stored for the long term? How to Store Pu'er Tea Cakes for the Long Term To store Pu'er tea for the long term: 1. A professional warehouse must be established. When Pu'er tea is placed in a professional warehouse, it will not mold but will slowly age. This ensures that the tea does not spoil and maintains its authenticity. If stored properly, it can last for a very long time. 2. It's best to wrap the Pu'er tea in bamboo leaves before storing it in the warehouse. This promotes fermentation without absorbing too much odor. When storing Pu'er tea for the long term, it's important to provide a relatively clean environment since the tea has strong adsorption properties. Do not store items with strong or pungent odors near the tea, as this can cause the tea to absorb unwanted flavors during storage. 3. Storing Pu'er tea…

  Carbon-roasted Tieguanyin tea is made by subjecting traditionally semi-fermented Tieguanyin tea to about 5-10 hours of charcoal roasting (hence its name). The fire must be carefully controlled, not too hot, with 50-60 degrees Celsius being optimal. Traditional charcoal-roasted Tieguanyin tea requires someone to tend the stove to ensure that the quality of the tea leaves themselves is not overly impacted. The carbon-roasted Tieguanyin has a unique aftertaste and flavor profile. After tasting it, one's throat feels particularly refreshed, carrying a subtle and refined charcoal aroma. Notably, the tea liquor turns a deep yellow after brewing, leaving a distinctive glutinous rice fragrance in the mouth. This is entirely different from the clear, light green water-like character of the typical fresh and fragrant Tieguanyin. Carbon-roasted Tieguanyin belongs to the traditional production system. For a high-quality carbon-roasted Tieguanyin, two essential elements are required: 1. High-grade Tieguanyin raw materials must be used for there to be a high-grade roasted Tieguanyin. The raw materials must be produced using traditional moderate fermentation techniques. Low-grade raw materials or unsuitable raw materials will not yield good results no matter how they are roasted. Currently, lightly fermented Tieguanyin that is popular on the market does not meet the…

Puer tea is a geographical indication product of Yunnan Province, and as the provincial capital, Kunming serves as the distribution center for Puer tea across China and worldwide, playing an irreplaceable role in its development. Located at a low latitude (25°N, 103°E) and high altitude (1892m), Kunming experiences a spring-like climate year-round, influenced by atmospheric circulation, geographic location, and altitude. The seven-son cake tea is one of the main representative shapes of Yunnan Puer tea. A single cake often represents the smallest sales unit, and the weight of a single cake (commonly known as the cake weight) should comply with the requirements of JJF1070-2005, "Rules for Metrological Inspection of Net Content of Quantitatively Packaged Commodities." The researchers conducted experiments in Kunming, storing 10 cakes each of raw and ripe Puer tea. They recorded the daily cake weights and temperature and humidity values over a period of 12 months. During the 12-month storage period, the monthly average cake weights of both raw and ripe Puer teas fluctuated. From the seventh month (February 2019) to the tenth month (May 2019), there was a dry and hot climate with temperature values exceeding humidity values for four consecutive months. During this time, the monthly…

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…

Acquiring a new teapot is always exciting, especially when you intend to use it to brew the perfect cup of tea. However, a new teapot cannot be used directly; it needs to go through the process of initiation and nourishment. This not only removes impurities from the teapot but also enhances its ability to absorb tea aromas. Today, we will discuss how to properly initiate and care for your teapot, ensuring that your new companion shares many more delightful tea moments with you. What is Teapot Initiation? Initiating a teapot refers to the preparatory process before using a new teapot for the first time. By cleaning and initially brewing tea, impurities on the surface of the teapot and residues from the manufacturing process can be removed. This process also lays the foundation for future use of the teapot. Steps for Teapot Initiation Clean the Teapot: Thoroughly clean both the inside and outside of the teapot with water. Do not use any detergents, as they may leave residue in the pot, affecting the taste of the tea. Brew Water to Remove Odors: Place the teapot in a pot and add enough water to completely submerge it. Boil for 20-30 minutes over…

Do you know the key elements to consider when buying tea? According to experts, during the purchasing process, you should “squeeze, observe, smell, and taste” to determine the quality of the tea. Let’s take Pu'er tea as an example and explore these tips together! The "squeeze" test is used to determine if the tea leaves are dry. Gently grip the tea leaves with your hand; if you feel a slight prickliness and the leaves crumble easily when lightly pinched, this indicates good dryness. If the leaves do not break even when firmly squeezed, they have become damp and soft, which affects their quality. The "observe" step involves examining the uniformity and appearance of the tea leaves. Leaves that are uniformly shaped and colored are generally better. Teas with high proportions of stems, corners, dust, and impurities will affect the quality of the tea infusion. The aroma of tea is one of the main conditions determining its quality, which can be assessed through "smelling." Different teas have distinct aromas due to their processing methods and levels of fermentation. Green teas are known for their fresh fragrance, while oolong teas have a unique ripe fruit aroma. Black teas carry a caramel-like scent,…

Xu Yahé: The premise for 'aging to richer flavor' is to get the initial setup right for Pu'er tea The tea expert Xu Yahé once introduced a new concept of Pu'er tea storage called "Nurture, Guide, Influence, Control." Based on this concept, with his rich experience in making tea and participating in numerous Pu'er tea evaluations, he will explain how to achieve the initial setup for Pu'er tea's 'aging to richer flavor' before its production, following national standards. He hopes to provide readers with useful information and insights. Want 'aging to richer flavor'? First, check if it’s the right 'material' According to Xu Yahé, from the perspective of raw materials, the results for 'aging to richer flavor' differ for first-grade, second-grade, and third-grade teas. "I believe that the concept of 'aging to richer flavor' is targeted at specific teas, guiding and controlling their quality in a particular direction. Only good-quality teas are worth storing; otherwise, they should be consumed sooner." To Xu Yahé, Pu'er tea storage is like a school where only the best students with solid foundations can enter. What constitutes a good foundation? First, select the right material Which type of tea has the initial conditions to reach…

    If you want to buy good tea,     You should first know the "Four Taboos."     1. Avoid buying by "Name"    If a tea's name is too prominent, it will flood the market, often at very low prices. The result is tragic. "Tieguanyin" doesn't resemble its name at all, "Longjing" has thick and stout twigs, and "Dahongpao" is full of charcoal flavor, claimed to have rock charm...     Any tea can vary in quality, after all, "name" only represents a type of variety, processing method, or a specific region's tea. Don't be tempted by small bargains, as you may waste money on inferior tea.     2. Avoid buying by "Packaging"    Nowadays, the packaging can cost more than the tea itself. For tea drinkers, seeing luxurious packaging should raise an eyebrow. Many "golden and splendid" or "antique-style" large gift boxes contain tea that might not even be worth the price of the box; they merely satisfy the desire for "face" when giving gifts, truly "gilded on the outside, but decayed within."     3. Avoid buying by "Location"    When traveling and buying local specialties, did you know that you cannot buy real…

The three major hotspots for Pu'er tea storage are Guangzhou, Kunming, and Menghai. These locations have significant climatic differences, leading to distinct transformations in the stored Pu'er tea, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Today, let's delve into the world of Kunming-stored Pu'er tea. Introduction to Kunming-Stored Pu'er Tea Kunming is known as the "City of Eternal Spring," located on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. The temperature varies little throughout the year, making it a high-altitude humid city with relatively dry air during winter and spring. However, looking at macro data, Kunming cannot be considered a dry city, with an average annual temperature of 15 degrees Celsius and humidity of 71%. This is only 8 percentage points lower than Guangzhou. Yet, Kunming cannot be classified as having a humid climate; despite moderate humidity, the evaporation rate is higher, making it relatively dry. The transformation of Pu'er tea relies on fermentation, which requires temperature and humidity. Kunming's relatively dry climate, low air humidity, and stable temperature fluctuations create a suitable environment for Pu'er tea fermentation. The aging process primarily involves enzymatic reactions catalyzed by oxidases, leading to a relatively pure and singular transformation. Although the maturation period is longer, the conversion led…

Tieguanyin is the pinnacle of Oolong tea, characterized by: tightly coiled, robust, round, and evenly heavy leaves with a sand-green color. The overall shape resembles the head of a dragonfly, a spiral, or a frog's leg. When brewed, the liquor is a bright amber hue, with a natural and rich orchid fragrance. The taste is full-bodied, fresh, and sweet with a long-lasting aftertaste, commonly referred to as having a “sound of music.” The aroma of Tieguanyin is high and persistent, often described as having a lingering fragrance even after seven infusions. Modern Tieguanyin, influenced by the preferences of tea enthusiasts in green tea regions, increasingly emphasizes its fragrant qualities, with a lower degree of fermentation and a greener appearance. To enjoy this fragrant type of Tieguanyin, you must use a porcelain gaiwan and freshly boiled 100°C water. Quickly rinse the tea and discard the water. For the first infusion, steep for about 20 seconds, ensuring that no tea liquor remains in the gaiwan to avoid bitterness. Afterward, lift the lid of the gaiwan and savor the unique aroma of Tieguanyin. If the tea is of good quality, it should have a milky or fruity scent (such as peach). The liquor…