Tea Knowledge

       How to store tea? Many people are troubled by this question. Loving tea, they purchase countless quantities of it, originally intending to savor it slowly, only to often find the tea has gone bad due to improper storage, leading to significant waste. So, how exactly should tea be stored?        Four methods for storing tea        1. Refrigerator Storage        Storing tea in the refrigerator is common and simple, but it has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look:        Teas that are typically stored in the refrigerator include green tea, black tea, and processed white teas (like Anji White Tea and Tianmu Lake White Tea, not Fuding White Tea). Why can these types of tea be stored in the fridge?        This is because we tend to consume green and black teas quickly, and they are usually packaged in small quantities—ranging from 200 grams to as little as 50 grams. Since the storage volume is small and can be consumed within a month, storing them in the refrigerator for preservation is not an issue.        However, white tea and Pu'er tea are not…

Huangshan Maofeng, one of China’s top ten famous teas, is renowned for its tender buds, beautiful appearance, rich aroma, and sweet taste. It is produced in the Huangshan Scenic Area in Anhui Province and has a history dating back over 1,800 years, often referred to as the “saint of teas.” The quality of Huangshan Maofeng primarily depends on the harvest time, leaf grade, and production methods. Harvest Time The harvest times for Huangshan Maofeng are generally divided into pre-rain, post-rain, before the clear spring (mingqian), Guyu, and White Dew. Among these, those harvested pre-rain and before the clear spring are of the highest quality and, accordingly, the most expensive. Leaf Grade The leaf grades of Huangshan Maofeng mainly include Special Grade, First Grade, Second Grade, and Third Grade. Among them, the Special Grade Huangshan Maofeng has the most delicate buds, vibrant green color, rich aroma, and sweet taste, making it a true delicacy. Production Methods The production process of Huangshan Maofeng includes picking, withering, stir-frying, shaping, and drying. Among these steps, the stir-frying process is crucial and directly impacts the tea’s quality. Price of Huangshan Maofeng The price of Huangshan Maofeng ranges from dozens of yuan to several thousand yuan…

"White Peony tea," a precious variety, is produced in Zhenghe, known as the "Hometown of Chinese White Tea." White Peony tea is picked at the stage of one bud and two leaves, requiring that the buds and leaves are covered with white down, referred to as "three whites." The shape of the tea is two leaves embracing a bud, with a natural leaf posture and white down covering the back of the leaves. After brewing, the liquor turns apricot yellow or orange-yellow, clear and bright, with a fresh and lasting downy fragrance. The veins are slightly red, scattered among the green leaves, earning it the praise of "red dress on a white body." The preparation method for drinking White Peony tea is similar to that of green tea but, due to the lack of kneading, the tea juice does not easily seep out, so the brewing time is slightly longer than for green tea. "White like clouds, green like dreams, clean like snow, fragrant like orchids," this tea, which is cold and cool in nature, has the effects of heat-clearing and summer-heat dispelling, making it an excellent drink for refreshing the heart and purifying the spirit in summer. It is…

The aroma and taste of Pu'er tea after brewing are determined by the raw materials, processing techniques, and storage conditions. Due to different storage environments in various places, the same tea can develop completely different flavor profiles after a few years of aging. When selecting mid-aged and older teas, in addition to considering factors such as brand, price, and vintage, where the tea has been stored and aged is also very important. Many tea enthusiasts enjoy drinking Pu'er tea from the Kunming warehouse. What are the distinctive features of these teas? Kunming is located on the Yunnan plateau at a high altitude, with relatively small annual temperature fluctuations and a climate that is moderately warm and humid. These conditions make it very suitable for storing Pu'er tea. Compared to lower-altitude warehouses with higher temperatures and humidity, Pu'er tea stored in Kunming may undergo slower overall transformation, but it enjoys high recognition among tea enthusiasts and often commands better prices for the same vintage. Characteristics of Pu'er Tea Stored in the Kunming Warehouse First, Aroma: The aroma changes are relatively noticeable, often featuring honey-like notes, but undesirable aromas such as smoky, burnt, or moldy scents are more difficult to dissipate. Second,…

    If we compare the West Lake to Xi Shi, we can say that fine tea is like a beautiful woman. The excellence of West Lake Longjing tea needs no further elaboration, but the market is full of mixed quality and it's hard to distinguish between genuine and fake products. If you end up with inferior tea, it will undoubtedly affect your enjoyment of the tea. Therefore, knowing some tips for selecting West Lake Longjing tea is crucial. Here’s how to discern the quality of West Lake Longjing tea:     How to Select West Lake Longjing Tea?    1. Touch    Judge the dryness of the tea. Pick a random piece of dried tea and crush it between your thumb and index finger. If it turns into powder easily, then it is sufficiently dry; if it breaks into small pieces, then it is not dry enough or has absorbed moisture. Tea that is not dry enough is difficult to store and lacks aroma.    2. Look    Check if the dried tea meets the basic characteristics of Longjing tea: West Lake Longjing tea has a lustrous green color, a delicate and elegant fragrance, a fresh and mellow taste, and a shape resembling a sparrow’s tongue, possessing the four distinct features…

For the same tea, being stored in different places means facing different storage environments, which leads to differences in Puer tea collection between the north and south. When discussing with experienced tea enthusiasts, Kunlun found that sending the same tea to over 20 cities across the north and south resulted in variations in taste due to differences in storage conditions, humidity, temperature, and other factors. The difference in regional environments determines the methods for preserving Puer tea. So what are the characteristics of Puer tea storage in different regions? Storage can be divided into pure dry storage and natural storage. Natural storage involves keeping the tea in a natural environment on floors below the second level, without artificial processing. The tea undergoes natural transformation. The surface of the tea has a dull luster, and there is no dry aroma. The taste is not significantly different from pure dry storage. Pure dry storage involves keeping the tea in a professional tea warehouse above the second floor, where it naturally ferments under constant temperature and humidity. The surface of the tea has an oily sheen, and the tea has a fragrant aroma. The taste is rich and smooth, with a noticeable aftertaste.…

The best way to store white tea for short-term: Prepare a kraft paper bag, then put the white tea in the kraft paper bag, squeeze out the air in the bag, seal it well, and store it in a dry and odorless place. For long-term storage of white tea, use an aluminum foil bag to pack the white tea and seal it, then put another layer of plastic bag on the outside, squeeze out the air in the bag, finally place it in a cardboard box, and store it in a cool place. The Method of Storing White Tea Since loose white tea is too light and takes up a lot of space, pressing it into cakes is more convenient; secondly, pressing it into cakes can greatly reduce the loss of tea (crumbs) from long-term storage and occasional handling. Thirdly, compared with Pu'er tea, small to medium-leafed white tea is less resistant to oxidation (small to medium leaves have naturally less effective internal substances than large leaves and cannot withstand much handling), pressing it into white tea cakes reduces the amount of oxygen that comes into contact with the white tea in the space, allowing the white tea to be…

When buying tea, the variety can be overwhelming, often making it difficult for people to know where to start. Selecting tea has become a real challenge for tea enthusiasts. To buy suitable tea, in addition to following the steps of "Observation, Smelling, Inquiry, and Brewing," it's also important to avoid common pitfalls when purchasing tea. ObservationObservation means looking at the shape of the tea: whether it is uniform, and how shiny its color is. Evaluate the quality of various teas based on their uniformity, luster, and the amount of broken leaves and twigs they contain. For example, green tea should have a fresh green color with visible white downy hairs (better if it does), while yellow or even reddish, dull colors indicate lower quality. A clear tea infusion is better. Some famous teas have unique shapes: West Lake Longjing is usually smooth, flat, and straight with a rice-like yellow hue and no visible downy hairs; Huangshan Maofeng has many downy hairs and a peak-like appearance; Xinyang Maojian is fine, straight, and round with many downy hairs; Biluochun has slender, tightly curled leaves resembling snails. If the tea doesn't look good visually, trust your instincts and don't be swayed by the…

In recent years, Pu'er tea has gradually come into the public's view and gained the affection of tea drinkers. There are many reasons why tea enthusiasts enjoy drinking raw Pu'er tea: some appreciate its distinct changes in flavor, others its characteristic of improving with age, and some simply love its natural, original taste. Different people may have different reasons for enjoying raw tea. However, the criteria for judging a good tea should be relatively consistent. Do you know how to choose a good-tasting Pu'er tea? How to Choose a Good-Tasting Pu'er Tea 1. Look at the brand When choosing Pu'er tea, it is important to focus on reputable brands. Branded teas provide strong assurances in terms of production safety, quality, and after-sales service. 2. Examine the appearance of the Pu'er tea When selecting Pu'er tea, judge it by its appearance. Pu'er tea comes in two forms: loose tea and compressed tea. 3. Smell the aroma of the Pu'er tea Raw Pu'er teas often have a fresh scent, while aged Pu'er teas have a mature aroma. If there is a musty smell or other unusual odors when smelling the tea, this indicates questionable quality. 4. Observe the color of the tea…

Pu'er tea is unique among teas in that it improves with age, becoming richer and more fragrant over time. When stored properly within a reasonable timeframe, the flavor of Pu'er tea deepens and matures. There are two types of Pu'er: raw (sheng) and ripe (shou). Each has its own distinct taste, with some preferring the pure sweetness of raw Pu'er and others the rich depth of ripe Pu'er. Without considering taste differences, which type is better for long-term storage? Let's explore this question. Long-Term Storage of Pu'er: Raw Teas Have Greater Potential for Transformation The most significant difference between raw and ripe Pu'er lies in their production processes. Compared to raw Pu'er, ripe Pu'er undergoes an additional step known as wet-piling fermentation. Although this step involves simply adding water and allowing the tea to ferment, it triggers complex biochemical changes through enzymatic reactions, microbial fermentation, and moist heat effects. During these three processes, the chemical composition of the tea changes rapidly, transforming the internal substances of the Pu'er. The higher the degree of fermentation, the greater the transformation of internal substances during the wet-piling process. This means there is less material available for further transformation later on, significantly limiting the…

In the vast river of Chinese tea culture, Shoumei tea stands out with its unique qualities and profound cultural significance, becoming a treasured gem among tea enthusiasts. Today, let's delve into the world of Shoumei tea to explore its origins, production techniques, tasting methods, and health benefits, and experience the charm of this rare tea. I. Origins and History of Shoumei Shoumei is a type of white tea primarily produced in Fuding City and Zhenghe County of Fujian Province. The character "Shou" in its name symbolizes longevity and health, while "Mei" refers to the tea leaves' shape, which resembles an eyebrow. The history of Shoumei can be traced back to the Tang and Song dynasties, when it was already a tribute tea cherished by royalty. Over time, Shoumei has become part of everyday life for ordinary people. II. Production Techniques of Shoumei The production techniques of Shoumei are unique and meticulous, using traditional white tea processing methods including picking, withering, and drying. First, picking is the initial step in making Shoumei. The timing of picking is very important, usually taking place around Qingming Festival in spring. At this time, the tea leaves are tender and rich in natural compounds, making…

Lincang Bingnong Mountain Pu'er tea is a spot Pu'er tea produced in the Bingnong Mountain area of Lincang, Yunnan Province, China. It is renowned worldwide for its distinctive semi-mountain quality and flavor, making it a key component of traditional Chinese tea culture. Bingnong Mountain is located in the Lincang region of Yunnan, an alpine area above 1,000 meters elevation with rugged terrain, variable climate, abundant annual rainfall, and fertile soil—ideal conditions for growing Pu'er tea trees. Bingnong Mountain Pu'er tea is made using the traditional Daxueshan technique passed down through generations. The tea trees are cultivated and managed under strict environmental conditions to ensure consistent quality and flavor. Its taste is characterized by a smooth and rich mouthfeel, with a long-lasting sweetness. The leaves are relatively thick and full-bodied, while also exuding a unique fragrance. How much does the 2024 Lincang Bingnong Mountain Ancient Tree Spring Tea cost? The 2024 Lincang Bingnong Mountain Ancient Tree Spring Tea, pure raw loose tea, is priced at 125 RMB for 250 grams. The 2024 Lincang Bingnong Mountain Ancient Tree Spring Tea, pure raw loose tea, is priced at 250 RMB for 500 grams. The 2024 Lincang Bingnong Mountain Ancient Tree Spring Tea, pure…

Puer tea has no expiration date and should be stored in a dry and ventilated environment, with the flavor becoming richer over time. Raw Puer tea requires 5 to 10 years of storage, while ripe tea needs 3 to 5 years. There is a significant difference in storage times between the north and south due to the warm and humid climate in the south, which accelerates transformation but also increases the risk of mold. Many tea enthusiasts know that Puer tea improves with age, but does the same apply to Puer loose tea? Why does some Puer loose tea become less enjoyable after a few years? Is Puer Loose Tea Suitable for Long-Term Storage? Puer loose tea isn’t ideal for long-term storage due to its structure not being conducive to slow oxidation. Firstly: Puer loose tea has too much exposure to air, accelerating oxidation and gradually losing its aroma. Secondly: The rapid oxidation rate robs Puer tea of the delightful changes and surprises at different stages. Thirdly: Puer tea benefits from being tightly packed, which facilitates the transformation of substances, something that loose tea doesn’t have. Fourthly: Compressed tea undergoes an additional watering process, which is more favorable for the…

Today, we reveal the tricks used to age and falsify old white tea. 1. Telling Stories This tactic is surprisingly effective, which is why unscrupulous merchants keep using it. To sell their old white tea at a higher price, one-year-old tea can be passed off as three years old; three-year-old tea can be claimed to be seven years old; and seven-year-old tea can be said to be over ten years old. Even I, myself, have been asked to appraise old white teas from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s in many tea shops. If you ask the shop owners where they got these decades-old white teas: The typical answer is that they were purchased at a high price from a good friend of a southern business tycoon, or given by a leader to a friend, or stored by a friend who used to run a tea shop or factory, or sold in bulk by a friend due to a need for cash flow, or accidentally discovered in a corner of a tea factory's warehouse. You might feel like spitting blood on their faces. Aside from the unpleasant taste and potential digestive discomfort, just the smell and color are alarming enough. They…

Pu'er aged raw tea has five distinctive features: purity, richness, agedness, thickness, aroma, and sweetness. Its taste is free from impurities or off-flavors, with a mellow and smooth mouthfeel that is more gentle. The bitterness and astringency are significantly reduced, leaving a dense and substantial mouthfeel with a viscous and full-bodied liquor. It exudes a rich and persistent aged fragrance, entering sweetly and smoothly with a full throat presence and noticeable aftertaste. After years of maturation, aged Pu'er tea develops a unique aged aroma and flavor profile that is both smooth, slippery, and mellow. Its aroma extends beyond mere olfactory pleasure, encompassing an aromatic experience for the body and mind, akin to the scent found in the realm of Zen tea. So, when purchasing Pu'er tea, how can we identify high-quality aged Pu'er tea? How to Distinguish Aged Pu'er Tea? First, smell the Pu'er tea: Old Pu'er tea, after a long period of aging, develops a natural aged aroma without any other impurities or off-flavors. The older the Pu'er tea, the less likely it is to have any strange or impure flavors. Second, observe the dry appearance of the Pu'er tea: Older teas have been stored for a longer time.…

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…

There are many varieties of tea in China, and it's unlikely that non-professionals can judge the quality of every type. Typically, people are familiar with just a few kinds they like. Teas from their place of origin tend to be purer, but differences in tea-making techniques result in varying qualities. Therefore, it’s essential for ordinary tea drinkers to know some tips for buying tea. 1. When buying loose tea, use two fingers to grind a few tea strips or granules. If they turn into powder, it indicates the tea is dry. If they only break into small pieces, it suggests the tea has absorbed moisture and should not be purchased. 2. Take a pinch of tea and place it in your palm. Blow gently on it to warm the leaves slightly, releasing their aroma. Smell carefully to evaluate if the scent is pure and lasting. Repeat several times to discern the strength and persistence of the aroma. Also, check for any abnormal odors such as smoke, burnt, sour, or other off smells. 3. If the dry tea emits a strong, lingering fragrance, there's a high chance it has been artificially scented. The tea may smell very fragrant but lacks taste…

Based on different manufacturing processes, Pu'er tea is divided into raw and ripe varieties. Ripe tea undergoes an additional pile-fermentation process compared to raw tea. Due to these differences in production methods, the nature of raw and ripe teas varies significantly. Raw tea has a relatively cool nature, while ripe tea is warmer. Traditional Chinese medicine categorizes human constitutions as: balanced, yin-deficient, yang-deficient, qi-deficient, damp-heat, phlegm-dampness, and qi-stagnation. We can choose the right Pu'er tea according to our constitution. How to Choose the Right Pu'er Tea for Yourself 1. Balanced Constitution This is a healthy constitution, suitable for both ripe and raw teas. You can choose different teas based on seasonal changes. In summer, you can drink raw tea for its cooling effects; in winter, enjoy ripe tea to warm your stomach and body. 2. Yin-Deficient Constitution People with this constitution tend to have excessive internal heat, difficulty sleeping, and hot, sweaty palms and soles, along with rough and dry skin. This is due to an imbalance between yin and yang, with yang being stronger than yin. Those with this constitution can drink raw tea after meals during the day and consume moderate amounts of ripe tea at night. 3.…

Liu'an Guapian, one of the top ten famous teas in China, is highly regarded by tea enthusiasts for its unique quality and long history. This tea is not only popular domestically but also holds an important position in international markets. This article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Liu'an Guapian, covering its history, characteristics, benefits, and how to brew it, giving you a more complete appreciation of this tea. The Historical Origins of Liu'an Guapian Liu'an Guapian, also known simply as Guapian or "slice tea," is one of China's top ten famous teas, produced in the Dabie Mountains area near Liuan City, Anhui Province. Its history dates back to the Tang Dynasty, when it was known as "Luzhou Liuan Tea." By the Ming Dynasty, this tea came to be called "Liu'an Guapian" and was esteemed for its outstanding quality, being considered a high-grade and superior tea. During the Qing Dynasty, Liu'an Guapian became a tribute tea for the imperial court, enjoying great renown at the time. The Growing Environment of Liu'an Guapian The main production areas of Liu'an Guapian are located in the northern foothills of the Dabie Mountains in Jinzhai County and Yu'an District, where the climate…

Everyday tea, as the name suggests, is a type of tea that is always available at home and can be consumed daily. “Everyday tea” is a broad term commonly used by seasoned tea enthusiasts and does not refer to specific teas. As a daily beverage, the most significant characteristic of everyday tea is its rapid consumption; it can be considered a consumable item. Therefore, one crucial factor when selecting everyday tea is that it must offer excellent value for money. What Does Everyday Tea Mean in the Context of Puer Tea? 1. Puer everyday tea refers to high-quality Puer tea leaves that satisfy taste preferences with their appropriate strength and offer good value for money, suitable for daily consumption. Typically, this type of tea achieves a balance between quality and price. 2. The term "everyday tea" is often heard from experienced tea drinkers, imbued with multiple meanings, including recognition of the tea’s quality and consideration of its value for money. Since everyday tea is consumed daily, the cumulative amount over time is substantial, so the price must be within an acceptable range. Most tea enthusiasts’ everyday teas fall within the 1 to 200 yuan range. Teas at this price point…

Pu'er raw tea can be selected in a manner similar to green tea. Pu'er ripe tea is more special, so let's focus on that. In terms of appearance, it should have a reddish-brown color and stout, thick strands. If it’s in the form of cakes, bricks, or tuos, the shape should be uniform without excessive broken leaves and not overly compacted. If the surface of the tea lacks luster or appears grayish-white and contains foreign objects, it indicates poor quality or deterioration. The infusion should have a color akin to red wine, being both dark and rich yet clear and bright. If the tea liquor is dark brown and murky, it is typically not a good tea. If the aroma is low and musty, it is best not to consume it. In terms of taste, Pu'er tea should be full-bodied, sweet, and smooth. If it is bland with no aftertaste, it is not a good tea. The infused leaves should still retain some elasticity and a reddish-brown color. If the leaves are black, lack elasticity, or are completely rotten, this indicates poor quality. Things to Know When Buying Pu'er Tea:1. Choose based on your financial situation; there is no need…

Jin Jun Mei, a name that shines like a brilliant pearl in the tea world, has captivated countless tea enthusiasts with its unique qualities and flavors. To truly appreciate the extraordinary allure of Jin Jun Mei, the correct brewing and tasting methods are essential. Today, we will delve into how to brew and taste this gem among teas, guiding you through each step and savoring every nuance. I. The Unique Charm of Jin Jun Mei Jin Jun Mei, as a representative of high-end black teas, is highly regarded for its golden, translucent infusion, distinctive aroma, and rich flavor. Its leaves are selected from premium tea trees in Xingcun, Wuyi Mountain, meticulously picked and processed to present a tight, golden appearance. Once brewed, the tea emits an enchanting floral and fruity fragrance with a robust yet sweet aftertaste, leaving a lasting impression. II. Careful Preparation Before Brewing Before brewing Jin Jun Mei, it's important to prepare adequately to ensure the perfect presentation of the tea's unique flavors. Firstly, selecting high-quality Jin Jun Mei leaves is crucial. When choosing, focus on the appearance, aroma, and taste. High-quality Jin Jun Mei leaves have a tight, sturdy shape, a golden luster, and emit a…

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…

The quality of Zhengshan XiaoZhong is particularly excellent. Its overall quality characteristics are divided into four categories: 1. Leaf Tea: A type of traditional broken black tea, with tight and uniform strips, a lustrous dark color, an aromatic fragrance, a bright red infusion, a rich taste, and a red and bright leaf base with many tender stems. 2. Broken Tea: With heavy and uniform granules in appearance, a lustrous dark or brownish color, a fragrant aroma, a bright red infusion, a strong, fresh, and refreshing taste, and a uniformly red leaf base. 3. Shredded Tea: Entirely in the form of ear-shaped shreds or wrinkled angular pieces, with a dark brown color, a relatively pure aroma, a somewhat red infusion, a somewhat strong and slightly astringent taste, and a uniformly red leaf base. 4. Cai Tea: One of the earliest varieties in Wuyi Mountain. Its bushes are very small, and its branches are relatively thin. It is a variety propagated sexually through seeds. It has abundant flowers and seeds, suitable for sowing.