Tea Knowledge

Often, friends ask me: Is it better to drink raw Puer tea or ripe Puer tea for weight loss? To compare which type of Puer tea is more effective for weight loss, we need to understand the mechanism behind Puer tea's weight-loss and fat-lowering effects. The weight-loss and fat-lowering benefits of Puer tea mainly come from two factors: Firstly, these effects are due to a combination of active components including tea polyphenols, chlorophyll, vitamin C, and more. Secondly, they result from the synergistic action of various beneficial bacteria formed during fermentation (these bacteria can reduce the absorption of triglycerides and sugars in the small intestine and enhance the enzymes that break down abdominal fat). The initial stages of raw Puer tea (within 1-2 years without significant fermentation) rely on the first factor for its weight-loss benefits. As it naturally ferments over time (which happens quickly in high-humidity environments, with noticeable changes occurring after just one year of storage), its weight-loss effects start to be influenced by both factors. Ripe Puer tea, which undergoes artificial fermentation, benefits from both factors for weight loss and lowering cholesterol. Therefore, overall, fermented Puer tea (whether artificially fermented ripe tea or naturally fermented raw tea)…

The retrograde sweetness and direct sweetness of Puer tea are unique quality characteristics. Retrograde sweetness refers to a sweet sensation that gradually arises in the mouth after drinking the tea; this sweetness does not come directly from sugars but is instead the result of complex chemical reactions involving various substances in the tea leaves within the mouth. It is typically long-lasting and subtle. Direct sweetness, on the other hand, is a sweet taste that can be felt directly during the consumption of the tea and is more apparent and immediate than retrograde sweetness. The retrograde and direct sweetness of Puer tea are often closely related to factors such as the raw materials of the tea leaves, production techniques, and storage time. High-quality aged Puer teas have a richer and longer-lasting retrograde and direct sweetness, leaving a lingering aftertaste. The Retrograde and Direct Sweetness of Puer Tea The term "sweetness" generally approaches the meaning of "deliciousness!" This deliciousness refers to the sensation produced by food stimulating the taste buds. Therefore, besides sweetness, "sweetness" also means "deliciousness" in classical Chinese literature! The retrograde sweetness of Puer tea occurs when the astringency and stimulation of the tea soup gradually disappear as it passes…

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…

Huzhuliangzi Tea Mountain is located in Mengsong Township, Menghai County, Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It is the highest peak within Xishuangbanna, with an altitude of 2,429 meters, and is known as the "Roof of Xishuangbanna" and the "Peak of Xishuangbanna." The name "Huzhuliangzi" has its origins. There is a vast bamboo forest on the mountain, where the wild bamboo is as thick as a wine cup, with long joints that are smooth and devoid of thorns. This wild bamboo is referred to as "slippery bamboo." Locals refer to the highest mountains as "liangzi," hence the name "Huzhuliangzi." While it is named after bamboo, it is famous for its tea. The 2024 Pu'er spring tea harvest season has begun. The price of spring tea depends on many factors, such as origin, tea tree variety, picking season, and processing methods. The following reference prices for raw materials of Mengsong Huzhuliangzi 2024 spring tea provided here are for informational purposes only, and actual transaction prices may fluctuate. Reference Prices for Raw Materials of 2024 Mengsong Huzhuliangzi Spring Tea: Ancient Tree Spring Tea: 1,600-2,800 yuan/kg Middle-Aged Tree Spring Tea: 1,100-1,500 yuan/kg Young Tree Spring Tea: 600-900 yuan/kg Pure First Flush Pre-Sales of 2024 Huzhuliangzi Spring Tea…

Black tea is the second largest category of teas in China and the most widely sold type of tea worldwide. The origin of black tea can be traced back to China, where it was first produced over 400 years ago during the Ming Dynasty by tea farmers in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, as Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong. In terms of processing techniques, due to differences in rolling methods and fresh leaf varieties, black tea can be classified into: Gongfu Black Tea, Xiao Zhong Black Tea, and Broken Black Tea. Xiao Zhong Black Tea is the oldest type of black tea, originally produced in Wuyi Mountain, and is also the progenitor of other black teas; Gongfu Black Tea comes in many varieties, produced in different regions, such as Qimen Gongfu Black Tea mainly produced in Qimen County, Anhui Province, and Dian Hong Gongfu from Yunnan Province; Broken Black Tea is produced across a wide range of areas and is primarily for export. Although there are different classifications of black tea, the basic process generally includes "withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying." As a fully fermented tea, the core and soul of black tea is its "fermentation," which is a critical step in…

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…

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…

Pu'er tea is divided into raw and ripe varieties. Since they share the same characteristics, tea enthusiasts often compare them: which is better, raw or ripe? From a tasting perspective, raw Pu'er tea offers a richer and more layered flavor profile, with a lasting aftertaste that leaves a pleasant fragrance on the lips, leaving many enthusiasts craving more. In contrast, ripe Pu'er tea has a smoother and warmer taste, which can seem somewhat monotonous. Should One Always Try to Choose Raw Pu'er Tea? Firstly, traditional Pu'er tea has existed for thousands of years, and historically, there was only raw tea; there was no such thing as ripe tea. If you want to learn about the history of ripe tea, feel free to do your own research—it's not a pretty story. Secondly, the pile fermentation process used in making ripe tea requires strict hygiene conditions that many smaller factories simply cannot meet. Thirdly, all consumables have an expiration date, and the shelf life of raw tea far exceeds that of ripe tea. Fourthly, I have visited and inspected many Pu'er tea factories and tasted numerous raw and ripe teas, so I have made comparisons. I'm not saying that all ripe teas…

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…

Tea has a multitude of health benefits, including the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, lowering cholesterol levels, boosting immunity, enhancing antibacterial properties, and aiding in weight loss. Although regular tea consumption is beneficial to the body, choosing the right type of tea based on one's condition can maximize its health effects. When drinking tea, female friends should especially be aware of their constitution and the nature of the tea they are consuming. So what should women pay attention to when drinking tea? Note 1: Drink Tea According to Constitution and Nature of the Tea Chinese tea is divided into six categories: Green Tea, Black Tea (note: this term refers to what is known as 'red tea' in Western cultures), Yellow Tea, White Tea, Oolong Tea, Pu'er Tea. Each category of tea has different properties and thus affects the body differently, so it is important to choose a suitable type of tea based on one's constitution. Oolong tea (also known as greenish-black tea) is neutral in nature and suitable for most people. Pu'er tea is warm in nature and helps eliminate grease, detoxify meat products, and lower cholesterol levels; it is best enjoyed after being stored for some time, which enhances both…

I often teach my friends: if you want to taste the tea, you need to savor it. The word “taste” has three mouths in its character, and “flavor” has one mouth, adding up to four mouths. So when you taste a mouthful of tea, you should sip it in four parts, and thus you will have taste. When you lift the cup of tea to drink, do not down it all at once; drink slowly, telling yourself to enjoy this cup of tea. Because you will never again taste another cup of tea exactly like this one. Once you think about it, you will sip the tea very slowly. Then you will find the tea particularly delicious, because your whole being is immersed in the tea. Being very focused, calm, tranquil, and simple, you can savor the tea. There is a saying in tea ceremony: "A lifetime encounter, a parting at the door." You may only meet once in a lifetime with someone over tea. So every cup of tea is a once-in-a-thousand-years opportunity, having been brought together through a long span of time and space. After drinking the tea, when you see off your friend or are seen off…

This issue offers advice to new or recently initiated Pu'er tea enthusiasts on how to select and purchase Pu'er teas for daily consumption. The aim is to help these enthusiasts avoid unnecessary pitfalls while gradually improving their understanding of Pu'er tea. First, try to avoid famous mountain and village teas, especially ancient tree teas. Typically, such teas are not cheap. Of course, there are some very low-priced options in the market, such as Laobanzhang for 88 yuan per cake; you can ignore these, as they are almost certainly fake. Does a high price guarantee authenticity? Not necessarily. If you don't understand the characteristics of these teas and your tasting skills aren't yet capable of distinguishing them, falling into a trap is highly likely. Truly reliable teas are rare. Even if you lower your standards and avoid well-known village ancient tree teas, small or medium-sized tree teas from famous mountains and villages, you should still be familiar with their characteristics before making a move. Otherwise, the likelihood of paying for a lesson is very high. Second, at the beginning, consider purchasing smaller quantities of moderately priced teas, such as those costing 100 to 200 yuan per cake (357g). These teas are…

Spring is the time when spring tea and tea lovers come together. By April, new batches of Longjing tea will be released. Longjing tea is renowned worldwide for its tender green color, fragrant aroma, sweet taste, and elegant appearance. So how do we choose good quality Longjing tea? Look at the Production Area Firstly, you can select Longjing tea based on its origin. There are three main production areas for Longjing tea: the West Lake area, which includes the current administrative region of West Lake District (West Lake Scenic Area) in Hangzhou City; the Qiantang area, including the current administrative regions of Xiaoshan, Binjiang, Yuhang, Fuyang, Lin'an, Tonglu, Jiande, and Chun'an counties (cities, districts); and the Yuezhou area, including the current administrative regions of Shaoxing, Yuecheng, Xinchang, Shengzhou, Zhuji counties (cities, districts) in Shaoxing City, as well as some towns in Shangyu, Pan'an, Dongyang, and Tiantai counties (cities). The quality of tea from different production areas varies, and there can be significant differences in price. Map of the Geographical Indication Product Protection Scope for Longjing Tea Additionally, you can check if the product packaging of Longjing tea has a Chinese geographical indication label, which is a more direct method. Assess…

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…

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.…

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

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

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…

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

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

The prices of tea sold in tea shops usually have some room for negotiation; you can discuss the price after tasting. First, tell the owner how much you need, then haggle for a 10-20% discount on their quoted price. Owners of physical husband-and-wife tea shops won't overcharge blindly, as the market sets the standards. Tactics for Haggling Over Tea Prices Understand the market price: Before purchasing tea, familiarize yourself with its market price so you have an idea of what to expect. Inquire about discounts: After selecting your tea, ask if there are any discount promotions, such as reductions for bulk purchases or special deals. Avoid making hasty decisions: When buying tea, don't rush into a decision. Compare the prices and quality across multiple shops to find the best option for you. Consider quality: Besides price, quality is also crucial when buying tea. Choose high-quality tea. In summary, when buying tea, be observant, compare, select carefully, and negotiate. Avoid rushing into a decision and consider both quality and price. Professional Questions to Ask When Buying Tea When purchasing tea, you can ask the following questions to demonstrate professionalism: Tea production area: Inquire about the production area to understand the growing…

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…

Locust flower tea, with its unique aroma and health benefits, is much loved by tea enthusiasts. This article will detail the preparation method of locust flower tea, from traditional handcrafting to modern mechanized production, guiding you through the charm of this traditional beverage. The History and Culture of Locust Flower Tea Locust flower tea has a long history in China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Locust flowers are not only beautiful ornamental plants, but their blossoms also have medicinal properties, including heat-clearing and detoxifying effects as well as cooling and blood-stanching benefits. In ancient times, locust flower tea was often consumed as a refreshing summer drink. Over time, the preparation techniques for locust flower tea have evolved, gradually forming a complete process. Selection of Raw Materials for Locust Flower Tea To make locust flower tea, one must first choose high-quality locust flowers. Generally, the best time to pick locust flowers is between May and June when the buds are about to bloom and the aroma is most intense. When selecting, choose bright-colored flowers free from disease, pests, and impurities. Traditional Handcrafted Preparation Process of Locust Flower Tea The traditional preparation process of locust flower tea includes the following steps:…

    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…