Tea Knowledge

In traditional Chinese medicine, donkey hide glue is widely used due to its rich health benefits. Recently, many people have started trying donkey hide glue tea, which is both simple and convenient. So, is it feasible to make donkey hide glue tea? Let’s explore this topic in detail together. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) What is Donkey Hide Glue? Donkey hide glue, also known as donkey skin gelatin, is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine made by boiling donkey skin. According to traditional Chinese medical theory, donkey hide glue has the effects of nourishing blood, tonifying yin, and moisturizing dryness. It is commonly used to treat anemia, insomnia, dry cough, and other symptoms. The Benefits of Donkey Hide Glue Tea Integrating donkey hide glue into tea not only makes daily consumption convenient but also maximizes its health benefits. Here are some of the main advantages of donkey hide glue tea: 1. Nourishes Blood and Invigorates Qi: Donkey hide glue is believed to promote blood generation and improve anemia. For those who often feel tired or dizzy, donkey hide glue tea is a good choice. 2. Improves Sleep: Donkey hide glue has a calming effect that can help alleviate insomnia…

Last time, we discussed the types of green tea. Today, let's talk about how to pick high-quality tea. After all, finding a great green tea is the goal. Here are four steps that will help you choose your ideal tea and quickly go from novice to expert. Step 1: Examine the Appearance Check if the tea leaves are intact and not broken. Observe if the color of the dry tea is bright, lustrous, and glossy. Severely broken dry tea can affect the taste of the tea infusion. Brightness, luster, and glossiness indicate the quality and freshness of the tea, as green tea is best enjoyed for its aroma, tenderness, and freshness. Generally, green tea harvested before the Qingming Festival is considered top-quality. Step 2: Smell the Aroma The aroma of tea includes both the dry tea and the infused tea. When shopping, focus on assessing the purity, type, intensity, and persistence of the aroma after brewing. In daily purchases, pouring a small amount of boiling water over the dry tea to release its aroma and then smelling it can be very effective. Step 3: Evaluate the Liquor Color and Taste Evaluate the color, brightness, and clarity of the tea liquor…

For those just starting to learn about Pu'er tea, you may not know where to start, as many concepts, common knowledge, and terms related to Pu'er tea are unfamiliar. This is an article designed to help beginners quickly understand Pu'er tea. ◎What is Pu'er tea? Pu'er tea originates from the Lancang River basin in southern and western Yunnan. It is made from the fresh leaves of large-leaf tea trees in Yunnan, processed into various compressed teas through steaming and compression, and then aged over a certain period of time. Alternatively, it can be made by post-fermenting sun-dried green tea from large-leaf tea trees in Yunnan, resulting in compressed or loose Pu'er tea. ◎What is raw (sheng) tea? The large-leaf tea grown in Yunnan is processed through sun-withering and directly compressed into cakes, tuos, or bricks, which are referred to as raw cakes, raw tuos, and raw bricks. Uncompressed tea is called maocha (rough tea). ◎What is ripe (shou) tea? The large-leaf tea grown in Yunnan undergoes sun-withering followed by pile fermentation and is then compressed into cakes, tuos, or bricks, known as ripe cakes, ripe tuos, and ripe bricks. ◎How do you distinguish between raw and ripe Pu'er tea? There…

A green tea latte is a beverage typically made by combining brewed green tea with steamed milk, similar to a coffee latte but using green tea instead of coffee. This drink is caffeine-free, making it a good choice for those who wish to avoid or are sensitive to caffeine. A green tea latte not only offers the health benefits of green tea, such as antioxidant intake, but also the creamy texture of milk. It can be prepared by mixing hot green tea with milk according to personal taste, sometimes with added honey or vanilla for extra flavor. The green tea latte is becoming increasingly popular in cafes and health drink shops.

Mengding Ganlu is a renowned tea produced in Sichuan, China, with a long history and excellent quality. So, what type of tea is Mengding Ganlu? What are its unique characteristics and appeals? Let’s explore this from three main aspects. 1. Origin of Mengding Ganlu: Mengding Ganlu is produced in Mingshan District, Ya’an City, Sichuan. The area is blessed with picturesque mountains and clear waters, and a climate suitable for tea cultivation. The origin of Mengding Ganlu is known as the “Birthplace of World Tea Culture,” a place rich in historical and cultural heritage. 2. Taste of Mengding Ganlu: The leaves of Mengding Ganlu are bright green, with a rich aroma and a clear infusion color. Its taste is fresh and sweet with a lingering aftertaste, full-bodied yet slightly astringent. Tasting Mengding Ganlu, one can feel the tea’s fragrance spreading throughout the mouth, providing a refreshing experience. 3. Historical and Cultural Value of Mengding Ganlu: Mengding Ganlu has been a famous tea since ancient times, with a long history. According to historical records, it dates back to the Western Han Dynasty, over 2,000 years ago. Mengding Ganlu is not only a traditional Chinese famous tea but also a treasure of world…

Pu'er tea is known for becoming more fragrant with age, and enthusiasts often store and collect Pu'er teas they enjoy. However, improper storage can easily lead to moldy or flavor-deteriorated cakes. Here are four key storage tips recommended by ChaYouWang: 1. Circulating Air. Tea leaves are rich in microorganisms, and circulating air contains ample oxygen, which aids their proliferation and accelerates the transformation of the tea. However, hanging Pu'er tea in a place like a balcony can disperse its aroma, making it taste bland when brewed. Therefore, there should be moderate air circulation, but not too much exposure to wind. Additionally, ensure that the surrounding environment does not have any odors, as these can affect the natural scent of the tea. 2. Stable Temperature. The temperature at which Pu'er tea is stored should generally match room temperature, with 20-30 degrees Celsius being ideal. Temperatures that are too high can accelerate fermentation and cause the tea to become sour. Furthermore, during spring, summer, and autumn, changes in the tea will occur faster than in winter. Store the tea away from direct sunlight in a cool place. 3. Appropriate Humidity. The storage conditions for Pu'er tea should include some moisture, as a…

Every year, at the end of March and early April, Pu'er spring tea enters the spring tea picking season. Many tea enthusiasts who love Pu'er tea choose to try it fresh during this time, savoring the charm of spring tea. Spring tea is rich in nutrients, has a full-bodied soup, a thick texture, a strong flavor, and a fresh and intense aroma, with a higher value for storage and transformation over time. Early spring Pu'er tea, after a whole winter of rest and recuperation, absorbs abundant nourishment from the tea plant as the earth warms up. Through photosynthesis, the tea buds grow robustly, containing a large amount of internal tea substance. Moreover, due to its low production volume, early spring Pu'er tea is quite precious, especially the first-picked spring Pu'er tea, which is considered a premium grade among teas. The benefits of drinking Pu'er spring tea: It replenishes nutrients and trace elements, relieves the pressures and fatigue of daily life, and maintains vitality in the body; characterized by freshness and sweetness, moderate consumption can quench thirst, alleviate spring lethargy, promote metabolism, and improve mood. There are many benefits to drinking spring tea, not only does it allow you to taste…

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…

Black tea, with its unique aroma and flavor, has become a beloved beverage worldwide, indispensable to people's daily lives. The origins of black tea imbue it with different flavors and characteristics. Today, let's embark on a journey of black tea and explore the four major origins of black tea around the world, experiencing their unique charms! China: The Birthplace of Black Tea China is the birthplace of black tea, with a long history of cultivation and production. There are numerous types of Chinese black teas, among which the most famous are Keemun Black Tea, Yunnan Black Tea, and Lapsang Souchong. Keemun Black Tea: produced in Qimen County, Anhui Province, it is renowned for its distinctive "Keemun fragrance." Keemun black tea boasts an aromatic bouquet with notes of orchid and honey, a rich and sweet taste, and a lingering aftertaste. Yunnan Black Tea: produced in Yunnan Province, it is known for its vibrant color and intense aroma. Yunnan black tea has a bright red infusion, a high-aroma, a robust and full-bodied taste, and carries the essence of the wilderness. Lapsang Souchong: produced in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, it is one of the oldest black teas in the world. Lapsang Souchong has…

Tea lovers often keep a good stock of tea at home. Some store their tea in the fridge, or even buy a small fridge specifically for this purpose. However, this is a common misconception – whether tea should be stored in the fridge depends on the type. Here are some basics about storing tea in the fridge. Green tea, yellow tea, and some oolong teas need to be refrigerated, while Pu'er, white tea, dark tea, black tea, and oolong teas with higher fermentation levels should be stored at room temperature and sealed. When storing these teas, it's important to prevent odors, dampness, ensure airtight conditions, and avoid light. If you plan to consume the tea within two months, simply store it in a cool place at room temperature. Green tea, yellow tea, and lightly fermented oolong teas need to be refrigerated. These teas have low fermentation levels or are unfermented, making them highly active and susceptible to environmental factors and oxidation, which can alter their quality. To maintain their flavor and aroma, they should be properly sealed and refrigerated. Which Teas Need Refrigeration? The main types of tea that benefit from fridge storage are green tea and lightly oxidized oolong…

Monastery on Nine-day Mountain The chrysanthemums by the eastern fence are also turning yellow. Worldly people often indulge in wine. Who understands and enhances the fragrance of tea? The fifth typhoon of the year, Doksuri, has made landfall in Fujian, prompting a red alert from the National Meteorological Center. Meanwhile, Typhoon Khanun, the sixth of the season, is poised and gradually intensifying. The typhoons bring heavy rainfall and a great deal of moisture, making it a critical time for tea enthusiasts. Slight carelessness can result in moldy tea leaves... So, what should you pay attention to when storing tea during typhoon weather? Typhoon Tea Storage Tips Watch Out for High Temperatures In the scorching summer, while typhoons may arrive, many might mistakenly think that temperatures have dropped. However, even if there's an occasional decrease, high temperatures remain the norm, so tea lovers need to be extra cautious. Various substances in tea decompose under high temperatures, reducing the aroma, taste, and quality of the tea. Storing tea at temperatures below 10°C effectively inhibits browning. White tea, in particular, is best stored at temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. In a cool and dry environment, the enzymes within the tea can maintain sufficient…

Tea stored for a period, whether vacuum-packed or not, will undergo some changes. The chlorophyll and polyphenol compounds in the tea can cause the tea to age, turning yellow, red, and developing an off-flavor, and there is even the possibility of mold growth. Therefore, when drinking tea that has been stored for a while, first confirm whether the tea has molded. If there is a musty smell, it should not be consumed. If there is only a slight aged or stale flavor, you can use a brewing method to address it. Method one: The water temperature should be high, preferably boiling. The first infusion should be longer than usual, then discard the infusion without drinking it. Starting with the second infusion, steep for half the normal time, using a quick brew method, and drink it as soon as possible while it's hot. Method two: Reduce the water temperature by a few degrees and follow the normal brewing time. This can avoid the bitterness of the tea liquor. Method three: It is best to switch to brewing in a large teapot, such as a teapot warmer, and reduce the proportion of tea leaves. The taste will be better. For tea stored…

The differences between black and green tea: Different levels of fermentation, black tea is a fully fermented tea, while green tea is non-fermented; Different appearances, black tea has red leaves and a red infusion, the dry tea is dark and lustrous, tightly bound; green tea has green leaves and a clear infusion, the dry tea is tightly bound, robust, with a verdant color; Different processes, the process for green tea is picking, fixation, rolling, and drying, while the process for black tea is withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying. The first difference between black and green tea: Different appearance of the tea leaves From the appearance of the tea leaves, in general, green tea often displays fine downy hairs, revealing tender buds, with a bright infusion, high fragrance, mellow and refreshing taste, and a greenish tone. Famous varieties include Longjing tea, Biluochun tea, Huangshan Maofeng, Zijia green tea, Lushan Yunwu, Liuan Guapian, etc.; black tea reveals fine downy hairs, has a dark and lustrous color, a bright and red infusion, bright red leaves, a fragrant aroma that is rich and long-lasting. Famous varieties include Qihong, Dianhong, Yinghong, etc. The second difference between black and green tea: Different colors of the tea…

Methods for storing Pu'er tea: 1. Purple clay jar, store the Pu'er tea in a purple clay jar in a cool, dry place; 2. Kraft paper resealable bag. Place the Pu'er tea in a kraft paper bag and store it in a clean, odorless refrigerator. Storage conditions for Pu'er tea: 1. Dry warehouse aging can preserve the authenticity of the Pu'er tea; 2. Clean and odorless, maintain a clean and hygienic environment. Storage Methods for Pu'er Tea 1. Purple Clay Jar Pu'er tea can be stored in a purple clay jar. First, prepare a clean purple clay jar, then place several bags of quicklime inside the jar, followed by the Pu'er tea you wish to store. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dry place. 2. Kraft Paper Bag Pu'er tea can be preserved using a kraft paper bag. First, prepare a clean kraft paper bag, then place several bags of charcoal inside the bag, followed by the Pu'er tea. Seal the kraft paper bag tightly and store it in a clean, odorless refrigerator. Storage Conditions for Pu'er Tea 1. Dry Warehouse Aging It is recommended to age Pu'er tea in a dry warehouse, as this will…

There's a popular saying about white tea: "One-year tea, three-year storage, seven-year treasure." Based on its aging period, white tea can be categorized into new and aged varieties: New white tea refers to the tea harvested and processed in the current year; aged white tea is the tea that has been stored for years and exhibits characteristics typical of aged tea. However, distinguishing between new and aged white tea can be challenging for many tea enthusiasts. Today, we will compare the appearance and quality of one-year new tea, three-year-old tea, and seven-year-old tea to help you discern and appreciate the differences between new and aged white teas. One-Year New Tea Appearance Naturally spread out, with plump and upright buds, even and mostly intact leaves with slight fragmentation; The leaves display a natural gray-green or bluish-green color, with a fresh luster, creating a beautiful contrast between the bluish top and the silvery-white underside; Abundant soft silver-white down. The aroma is delicate floral and downy. Quality The infusion of new tea is clear and bright, with a light apricot-yellow hue, and its taste is particularly fresh and sweet. Three-Year Aged Tea Appearance The integrity of three-year-aged tea is slightly compromised; It has…

For Pu'er tea, many tea enthusiasts have the concept of "drink old tea, store new tea." So, how can we determine if a new tea has collection value? First, making a good tea requires many factors. The most critical are the following three aspects: What kind of new tea has the greatest collection value? I. Raw Materials Without good raw materials, no matter how skillful the process is or how correctly it's stored later, the tea cannot develop a good taste during its transformation later on. 1. Tea Variety A good tea is cultivated by people and is also the result of natural selection over thousands of years. Among various tea varieties, the sexual reproduction-based large-leaf type native to Yunnan is best suited for making Pu'er tea. 2. Growing Environment A suitable environment for growing tea trees. This includes appropriate altitude, proper sunlight duration and intensity, well-spaced planting, appropriate intercropping, no need for pesticides due to biodiversity that prevents the occurrence and development of diseases and pests, etc. 3. Picking Parts and Time Different parts of the tea leaves such as the bud tip, leaf, stalk, and yellow leaf play different roles in the post-fermentation process and have different effects…

Those who enjoy drinking Pu'er ripe tea usually keep some at home. However, those lacking storage experience often find their tea has molded, deteriorated, or developed strange odors after a few years. So, how should we correctly store Pu'er tea? Key Points for Storing Pu'er Ripe Tea 1. Avoid Pollution: The environment in which you store Pu'er tea must be free from pollution. Pollution is something to be avoided when storing any type of tea, and this is no different for Pu'er tea. Pu'er tea can quickly absorb the odors of other substances, potentially masking or altering its own scent. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea at home, it is crucial to prevent common odors like cooking oil, cosmetics, and medications from contaminating the tea. 2. Avoid High Temperatures: The ideal temperature range for storing Pu'er tea is between 20°C and 30°C. Higher temperatures can cause the tea to become acidic. In daily life, many regions do not meet this condition, so storing it at home under normal conditions is sufficient. It is important to note that during the storage process, avoid placing Pu'er tea near heat sources such as fireplaces, kitchens, or machinery where temperatures may rise. 3. Avoid Moisture:…

Tieguanyin tea can be roughly divided into three types based on the degree of fermentation and manufacturing process: Fresh Aroma Type, Rich Aroma Type, and Mature Aroma Type. Fresh Aroma Type Tieguanyin: This type has a relatively light taste with a slight sweetness at the tip of the tongue. It is made using modern processing methods and is the most prevalent in the market. The Fresh Aroma Type Tieguanyin has a dark green color, clear infusion, rich fragrance, noticeable floral aroma, and a pure taste. Rich Aroma Type Tieguanyin: This type has a full-bodied taste, high and long-lasting fragrance, and a strong returning sweetness. It is made by roasting traditionally processed tea leaves and then baking them further. The Rich Aroma Type Tieguanyin is characterized by its "aromatic, rich, mellow, and sweet" features, dark lustrous color, golden-yellow infusion, pure fragrance, and heavy taste. Compared to the Fresh Aroma Type, the Rich Aroma Type Tieguanyin is warmer in nature and has effects such as quenching thirst, stimulating saliva production, tonifying the spleen, and warming the stomach. Mature Aroma Type Tieguanyin: Also known as aged tea or ripe tea, this type is made by storing Rich Aroma Type or Fresh Aroma Type…

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…

Nowadays, basic sustenance is no longer the biggest issue for a family. People pay more attention to the spiritual pursuits and aspirations of happiness and fulfillment in their homes. A family that loves tea: the father, as steady as tea, is the pillar of the home; the mother, like water, manages the household with tenderness; the children, like broth, are pure and innocent. A small habit—drinking tea—not only changes each person's life but is also one of the simplest ways for a family to find happiness. The Greatest Wealth of a Family: Health Sometimes the greatest wish we have for our loved ones is simply that they be healthy: that the elderly remain robust, parents stay energetic, and children grow up lively and adorable. Moderate tea drinking can reduce the risk of high blood pressure in seniors and effectively slow down aging. When coming back from work, young people should not rush to rest but instead brew a pot of hot tea to relieve the fatigue of the day. As parents, it's important to instill the habit of drinking tea in your children from a young age, which strengthens their immune systems and reduces the frequency of illnesses. Use the…

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. (Image source: network, delete upon request) 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…

Pu'er tea differs from other types of tea. The quality of a particular tea not only affects its taste but also impacts its storage and potential for appreciation in value. When selecting Pu'er tea, careful examination is necessary. Here’s how to identify the grade of Pu'er tea. How to Distinguish the Quality of Pu'er Tea! First, look at the appearance. Check if the leaves are whole and uniform. Generally, young leaves are finer while older ones are larger. The exterior should be round and lustrous, with the overall structure intact. If the leaves do not appear clearly defined and instead seem fragmented and uneven, it's likely an issue with processing. Second, observe the color. Good tea should have a luster and not appear dull. High-quality loose Pu'er tea has a fragrant aroma and a glossy appearance. Inferior tea has incomplete leaves and a dark, lifeless color without any sheen. Third, inspect the liquor color. Good Pu'er tea produces a clear, bright infusion with an oil-like film on the surface. Lower quality tea will appear dark, murky, and unclean. Fourth, smell the aroma. The fragrance should be pure and free of off-flavors or impurities. High-quality raw Pu'er has a fresh, uplifting…

Generally, the origin price of Pu'er tea ranges from 3,000 yuan to over 10,000 yuan per kilogram. As for plantation teas, even some ecological and organic Pu'er teas cost only 30 yuan to 200 yuan per kilogram. One can imagine that the highest price difference can be hundreds of times more. The Cost of Good Pu'er Spring Tea in 2023 (per pound) The prices of Pu'er spring tea vary widely, ranging from a few hundred yuan to several thousand yuan, or even tens of thousands of yuan per kilogram. The price of Pu'er spring tea is influenced by factors such as origin, picking season, quality, and specifications. For commonly available branded teas, the price of daily consumption tea is usually within 300 yuan, mostly blended teas. Teas with slightly better quality cost around 400 to 600 yuan, which are considered quite good. A cake of tea priced at 800 yuan is considered to have very high quality and representative taste. The Price of Pu'er Spring Tea in 2023 (per pound) In 2023, the price of small-tree Pu'er spring tea is around 200 to 400 yuan per kilogram, while the price of ancient-tree spring tea is around 600 to 800 yuan…

Baihua Tan is one of the representative production areas of the wild aroma type in Yiwu, located in the Yao Autonomous Township of Mengla County. The tea here is characterized by its robust quality, wild flavor, strong burst, and ample tea energy. Baihua Tan's Geographical Location Baihua Tan is situated in the Yao Autonomous Township of Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The environment for producing Pu'er tea here is uniquely distinctive. It is located at the confluence of the Tongjing River, Bulong River, and Jinguang River, forming a special "tan" or pool. This area boasts dense primeval forests, high altitude, abundant water systems, and a favorable ecological environment, providing ideal conditions for the growth of ancient tea trees. The ancient tea trees grown in such an environment absorb the essence of nature, creating Pu'er tea with unique qualities and flavors. The Ancient Tea Garden in Baihua Tan The ancient tea garden in Baihua Tan is a place full of mystery and charm. Hidden deep within the mountains and forests, it is surrounded by lush vegetation, offering an excellent ecological environment. The ancient tea trees here are tall and sturdy, having endured the passage of time, demonstrating remarkable…