Tea Knowledge

I'm sure that a lot of tea lovers have had this sudden urge and craving to drink a cup of your most beloved tea at night while struggling to finish it. Now comes a question that most of us will ask, the unfinished tea is just too valuable to throw away but will it still be drinkable tomorrow? We have all heard rumors, some say tea isn’t drinkable overnight, but is this really true? In short, please don’t drink it! We’ll be revealing to you the truth about overnight tea. Overnight tea usually refers to tea made the night or day before. Tea that has been sitting around for way too long is also referred to as overnight tea as well. When tea sits around for too long, a substance called TP (tea polyphenol) that it contains will start to oxidise, this darkens the tea. A great example would be green tea, its color will turn from bright green to yellow when put in a high heat environment. This is because when TP oxidises, non-toxic and harmless chemicals [technical term alert] such as theaflavins, thearubigins and theabrownins are also produced. However, it will become cold when you just leave it…

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…

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 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…

Why can green tea and lightly fragrant Tieguanyin be stored in the fridge, while Pu'er tea and some other types of tea cannot? Why Pu'er Tea Should Not Be Stored in the Fridge Like Green Tea 1. The fridge is humid with a high level of moisture, and Pu'er tea has excellent adsorption properties. Adsorbing moisture can cause the tea to become damp and moldy. 2. Various fruits and vegetables are often stored in the fridge. Storing Pu'er tea in the fridge would cause it to adsorb unwanted odors and flavors, leading to off-tastes and spoilage. 3. The ideal storage temperature for Pu'er tea is typically around 30 degrees Celsius. The low temperature inside the fridge is not conducive to the tea's maturation process. Pu'er tea is a fermented tea that contains beneficial microorganisms. The distinctive feature of Pu'er tea, where its flavor improves over time, is attributed to these enzymes. For enzymes to function effectively, they require a well-ventilated, cool, and dry environment. Therefore, it is best to store Pu'er tea at room temperature in a well-ventilated and dry place. Storing it in the fridge increases the risk of mold growth. Pu'er tea is not very picky about its…

Pure Silver Tea Infuser's Health Benefits Natural Antibacterial Properties Pure silver possesses natural antibacterial properties that few other materials can match. When silver comes into contact with water, it releases silver ions that can kill a variety of bacteria and microorganisms. This means that brewing tea with a pure silver infuser can reduce the risk of bacterial growth in your teaware, allowing you to enjoy healthier and purer tea. Improves Water Quality Pure silver significantly improves water quality. Many people find that tea brewed with a pure silver infuser has a fresher and purer taste. This is because silver effectively removes impurities and odors from the water, enhancing its quality and allowing the true flavor of the tea to shine through. Preserves Nutritional Components of Tea Leaves Tea leaves are rich in antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients, and a pure silver infuser helps preserve these components better. The good thermal conductivity of silver ensures that the tea leaves heat evenly during the brewing process without being damaged by localized overheating. This allows you to get the maximum nutritional and health benefits from every cup of tea. The Experience of Using a Pure Silver Tea Infuser Unique Visual and Tactile Enjoyment…

Tea-making is both an art and a science. Frying tea leaves at home not only allows you to experience the joy of this ancient craft but also lets you enjoy the unique aroma of tea made by your own hands. Whether you're a tea enthusiast or simply want to try DIY, this guide will take you through the process of making tea at home step by step. Picking Fresh Tea Leaves The first step in frying tea leaves is selecting and picking suitable leaves. Generally, spring is the best season for picking tea leaves as they are at their freshest and most fragrant. When picking, choose buds and tender leaves for the highest quality tea after frying. Withering After picking, the tea leaves need to be spread out in a cool, well-ventilated area to naturally wither and lose some of their moisture. This process takes about 1-2 hours, during which the leaves become softer and ready for frying. Fixation (Killing the Green) Fixation is a crucial step in making green tea, aimed at removing some of the moisture and enzyme activity in the leaves to preserve their green color. Place freshly picked tea leaves into a preheated pan and quickly…

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…

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…

Baihua Tan is part of the Tongqing River, a renowned Pu'er tea production area in Yiwu, located in the Yao Autonomous Township of Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is situated at the confluence of the Tongqing River, Bulong River, and Jinchang River, and its unique geographical location has created a favorable natural environment. It is a tranquil place nestled in the forest by the water. Various wild flowers grow near the mountain stream, with baihua (wildflowers) being the most abundant, hence the name. Baihua Tan stands out from the Tongqing River as an emerging micro-production area, following Bingdao, Laobanzhang, and Cha Wang Tree as another classic micro-production area for tea. The ancient tea trees in Baihua Tan can reach heights of over ten meters, with deep roots and broad crowns, and large leaves. Its tea leaves have a distinctive flavor, a heavy body, and a strong wild character, with great vigor and full tea energy. The raw tea is highly recognizable, with straight, hard strips, due to the high content of pectin in the leaves. Those fortunate enough to taste the ancient tree tea from Baihua Tan often describe it with the word “wild.” Its flavor…

If you are not aware of China's fascination with tea, you got to be a little better updated. These are some of the facts that would help you understand why it is important to know about this Chinese and tea connection. Very own discovery: Chinese take pride in the discovery of this beverage which is now consumed all over the world in different forms and taste. It is said that like all other inventions, it was accidental when Emperor Shen Nung was lying under a tree and his servant was boiling water for him. Some of the leaves from the tree actually fell into the boiling water and tea was born! Largest producer of tea: If China would not have been in the world, the total tea production in the world would have gone down by a massive 30%. China yearly produces almost approximately 2.10 million ton of tea which is then most consumed domestically and some exported worldwide. Used as a medicine: Long before during 8th century BC, tea in China was used as a medicine. The Chinese believed that it removed excess heat in the body and also improves the eyesight. Even in today's time, white tea is…

  1. Each type of tea has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Different types of teas require different amounts, water temperatures, steeping times, and can be steeped a varying number of times. Therefore, practically speaking, mixing different teas can be complicated. Moreover, mixing teas with different flavors and effects can result in negative interactions. Thus, it is generally not advisable to mix different types of tea. 2. Due to differences in variety and processing methods, teas have distinct flavors. Each type of tea has its unique aroma and taste. Mixing different teas can affect the appreciation of their individual qualities and diminish the enjoyment of tea tasting. Mixing different teas can also make the tea infusion cloudy and cause sedimentation; this can lead to impure flavors and may cause digestive issues or discomfort in the stomach and intestines. 3. Drinking several types of tea at once can lead to physical discomfort, which is likely due to excessive tea consumption causing low blood sugar and dizziness. If such physiological reactions occur, it could be a case of "tea intoxication." When mixing different teas, there is a higher risk of overconsumption, making it easier to become "intoxicated" by the tea. If…

Ruyao, the top of the Five Great Kilns of the Song Dynasty, is renowned worldwide for its unique sky-blue glaze and “ Cicada Wing ” crackle. Ruyao tea ware is not only a vessel for tea but also a precious work of art. However, maintaining Ruyao tea ware is a delicate art that requires careful attention to keep it fresh over time and reveal its unique charm. The crackle is the most distinctive feature of Ruyao tea ware and one of its most aesthetically pleasing elements. The crackle refers to the naturally occurring fine cracks on the surface of the glaze, light and lively like a cicada's wing. The formation of Ruyao crackle primarily depends on the difference in expansion coefficients between the body and glaze. During high-temperature firing, the glaze contracts faster than the body, forming a dense network of cracks. Maintaining the crackle of Ruyao tea ware is essentially a subtle interaction process between the tea infusion and the glaze surface. The minerals and pigments in the tea gradually seep into the cracks, gradually changing their color and texture, making them richer and deeper. Therefore, the key to maintaining Ruyao tea ware lies in regular use and care…

Dark tea, known as the black gold among teas, improves in quality and flavor over time. During its transformation, storage conditions are of utmost importance; even a slight oversight can cause the dark tea to spoil, especially during the humid season. The humid season occurs in March and April each year when the southern regions experience a sudden increase in temperature and humidity. During this time, everything feels damp both indoors and outdoors, making the air seem saturated with water, which is quite uncomfortable. For tea enthusiasts, the humid season is particularly challenging as it increases the risk of their cherished teas becoming damp and moldy. When storing dark tea during the humid season, controlling indoor humidity is key. Here’s a guide on how to prevent moisture from affecting your dark tea. It’s recommended that you save this information for future reference. 1. Preventing Moisture from Entering the Room During the humid season, the outdoor air is extremely humid. It's important to keep all windows and doors closed to prevent warm, moist air from entering. Even if the sun is shining brightly at noon, do not open the windows to ventilate. Ventilation during this period can sometimes lead to more…

Zhangjia Third Team is affiliated with Zhangjia Village Committee in Bulang Mountain Township and is located in a mountainous area. It is situated to the south of Bulang Mountain Township at an altitude of 1,100 meters, characterized by a subtropical monsoon climate. The average annual temperature ranges from 18-21°C, with an annual precipitation of 1,374 millimeters, making it suitable for growing crops such as rice and tea. In the bustling market for ancient tree Pu'er tea, ecological tea gardens are often labeled as "inferior tea." However, thanks to its superior geographical environment and ancient tea-making techniques, Zhangjia Third Team's high-mountain ecological tea garden model stands out as an exception. The tea trees in Zhangjia Third Team grow on mountains without any barriers or obstructions, enjoying long hours of sunlight and ample cloud mist nourishment. The soil is rich and fertile. Due to the excellent environment, the local residents do not excessively prune the tea leaves but allow them to grow naturally, resulting in a tea quality that can compete with ancient tree teas. As a result, the tea garden has earned the reputation as the "King of Ecological Teas." "Little Lao Banzhang" in Bulang Mountain Zhangjia Third Team is only…

Tea, a treasure of Chinese culture, has captivated countless people with its unique charm since ancient times. Among them, floral teas and reprocessed teas stand out for their distinctive flavors and production processes, becoming shining gems in tea culture. Today, let's embark on a journey into the world of floral and reprocessed teas to experience their allure and essence.Floral tea is a specialty beverage made by blending tea leaves with aromatic flowers. Among various floral teas, jasmine tea is particularly beloved for its fresh and elegant fragrance. The production process of jasmine tea is meticulous and labor-intensive, with each step embodying the wisdom and dedication of skilled artisans. Firstly, high-quality green tea is selected as the base and undergoes precise processing to retain its original freshness and flavor. Fresh jasmine flowers are then picked and layered with the tea leaves, allowing the tea to absorb the aroma of the jasmine fully. This scenting process requires multiple repetitions, with strict control over time and temperature to ensure perfect fusion between the tea and the flower’s fragrance. Finally, after careful scenting and roasting, jasmine tea is born. The flavor of jasmine tea is unique, combining the freshness of green tea with the…

As we all know, tea is a kind of food and therefore has a certain shelf life. However, the length of the shelf life is related to its manufacturing process. There are different types of tea: black tea, green tea, red tea, white tea, yellow tea, and oolong tea. Below is an introduction to the shelf life of tea. What is the shelf life of tea? Generally, fresh tea is better. For example, the shelf life of green tea is usually around one year when stored at room temperature. Of course, it mainly depends on how well you store it. If stored properly, the shelf life can be quite long. 1. Black Tea Black tea is known for getting better with age. The longest shelf life among teas is typically for black tea. Brick tea is best stored for 10 to 15 years, qianliang tea for 10 to 15 years, and loose leaf tea for 5 to 10 years, as these periods offer the highest economic and drinking value. High-quality teas made from premium ingredients are enjoyable after being stored for 1 to 2 years. Puer tea is divided into raw and ripe varieties. Generally, the shelf life of raw…

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…

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…

Green tea is one of the most common types of tea on the market, and there are many varieties. The price of different types and qualities of green tea varies slightly. Cheaper green teas can be bought for several dozen yuan per pound, while more expensive ones can reach several thousand yuan per pound. In addition, the price of green tea can also vary slightly depending on location and season. Actual prices should be based on local market conditions. Different Market Prices of Green Teas 1. Longjing Tea: 800 to 8,000 yuan Longjing tea has a prominent reputation among green teas. When the first batches of West Lake Longjing hit the market, they can sell for around 3,000 to 5,000 yuan per pound. This price maintains for about four or five days before gradually decreasing. By the time of Qingming (Tomb Sweeping Day), the price may fall to as low as 800 yuan per pound. Some extremely high-quality West Lake Longjing can sell for 5,000 to 8,000 yuan per pound. If there is any speculation, the price might even reach 10,000 yuan per pound. 2. Biluochun: 400 to 5,000 yuan The price of authentic Biluochun generally ranges from 400 yuan…

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 stands out among teas, as its flavor improves with age. However, not all teas become more fragrant over time; this is only true when the quality of the tea and storage conditions are appropriate. Pu'er ripe tea is suitable for long-term storage, but this does not mean it can be stored indefinitely. Ultimately, the tea must return to its primary purpose: consumption. How Long Should Pu'er Ripe Tea Be Stored? Many people ask questions on this topic, which covers a broad range and cannot be explained in great detail due to the extensive knowledge involved. Generally speaking, ripe Pu'er can be consumed immediately after production, but it tastes better after three to five years. This improvement is mainly due to the process of wet-piling. Wet-piling involves moistening and heating the tea leaves to make them somewhat cooked. After being heated, the tea continues to develop when exposed to air. Unlike raw Pu'er, this development in ripe Pu'er is less noticeable, with an increase in smoothness and little change in aroma, as it has already been mostly defined by the wet-piling process. The duration of wet-piling is a critical step in producing ripe Pu'er. High-quality teas should not be…

With so many varieties of tea, it can be overwhelming to choose. How to pick the right tea is a common challenge. If you want to buy good quality tea, consider the following suggestions: 1. Avoid buying by "Famous Names" In today's market, almost every tea bears a famous name, such as "Iron Goddess (Tiě Guānyīn), Frozen Peak (Dòngdǐng), or Great Red Robe (Dà Hóngpáo)" for oolong teas, "Dragon Well (Lóngjǐng), Da Fang" for pan-fired green teas, "Green Snail Spring (Bìluóchūn)" for slender green teas, and "Yellow Mountain Fur Peak (Huángshān Máo Fēng)" for plump green teas. Be aware that famous teas are not as common as potatoes. 2. Avoid buying by "Packaging" Poor quality teas are often packaged extravagantly in gold-embellished or antique-styled containers, such as porcelain bottles, tin cans, and redwood boxes. They may look like gold on the outside but are like cotton fluff inside. 3. Avoid buying "Assorted Collections" Dishonest sellers mix poor quality teas and package them as "Five Famous Teas," "Eight Famous Teas," or "Ten Famous Teas." Be cautious; if you want to try all types of famous teas, you need to do some research. 4. Avoid buying by "Place Names" When visiting tea-producing…

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…