Tea Knowledge

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…

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,…

Wild Yunnan black tea, a gift from nature, is full of unique charm and flavor. It grows in pristine forests, drawing the essence of heaven and earth, carrying the blessings of nature. Its shape is tightly knotted, with a lustrous dark color, and buds are visible. The unique aroma is floral and fruity, fresh and rich, intoxicating to the nose. In terms of taste, wild Yunnan black tea is mellow and sweet with a full-bodied infusion that carries a rich scent of the wilderness. Upon entry into the mouth, one can feel the smoothness and delicacy of the infusion, with a lingering aftertaste that is unforgettable. How much does wild Yunnan black spring tea cost? The price for 2024 Fengqing Yunnan wild black tea - pure bud material loose tea (250g) is 130 yuan. The price for 2024 Fengqing Yunnan wild black tea - pure bud material loose tea (500g) is 260 yuan. The price for 2024 Fengqing Yunnan wild black tea - pure bud material loose tea (1000g) is 500 yuan. Data source: ChaWo Network The taste of wild Yunnan black tea Mellow and Rich: The flavor is thick and robust. Sweet and Delicious: Has a natural sweetness that…

Tea lovers often keep a large amount of tea at home. Many people store their tea in the refrigerator, and some even purchase a small fridge specifically for this purpose. However, this is a misconception – whether or not to place tea in the refrigerator should be considered on a case-by-case basis. 1. Teas Suitable for Refrigeration Green tea, lightly fragrant Oolong tea, and dehumidified tea. Among the six major types of tea, green tea is the most prone to spoilage and requires extra attention during storage. You can place the tea in a sealed tea canister, then put it inside a sealed bag before refrigerating it. Lightly fragrant Tieguanyin and dehumidified Oolong, which have gained popularity, can also be stored in the refrigerator. Green tea, lightly fragrant Oolong tea, and dehumidified tea are suitable for refrigeration. 2. Teas Unsuitable for Refrigeration Dark tea, aged Tieguanyin, Pu'er tea, and white tea are not suitable for refrigeration due to their need for post-production transformation, especially Pu'er tea, where aging significantly affects its drinking value. Storing these teas in the refrigerator can lead to moisture issues. Additionally, in the low-temperature environment of the fridge, the activity of biological enzymes within the tea…

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…

 When it comes to tea, people often talk about "fully fermented," "semi-fermented," and "lightly fermented." Is this the same kind of fermentation as in common "fermented foods" like yogurt, wine, and vinegar? What are their differences? Today, let's explore the mysteries of tea "fermentation" together! | What is Fermentation The term "fermentation" generally refers to a certain decomposition process carried out by organisms. The phenomenon of fermentation has long been recognized by people, but understanding its essence is a matter of only the past 200 years. According to microbial physiology, "fermentation" is strictly defined as the process by which organic substances are oxidized and degraded into oxidation products, releasing energy, and this is collectively referred to as biological oxidation. In industrial production, "fermentation" - "industrial fermentation" - is broadly defined as all industrial production that relies on the life activities of microorganisms. This includes processes like beer brewing and monosodium glutamate (MSG) production. "Fermentation" in food refers to a class of food products that are processed using beneficial microorganisms, possessing unique flavors. Examples include yogurt, cheese, sweet rice wine, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, rice vinegar, fermented soybeans, yellow rice wine, beer, and wine. | "Fermentation" of Tea - Biological Oxidation…

There are many methods to store Pu'er tea, divided into professional storage and personal home storage. Regardless of whether it is professionally stored or personally stored at home, attention should be paid to the storage environment. Commonly used storage methods involve keeping the original packaging of Pu'er tea, storing it off the ground, and avoiding dampness and unwanted flavors. How to Store Pu'er Tea Properly ① Direct Storage The storage of Pu'er tea can use multiple paper bags or bamboo shells for direct packaging and storage; there is no need to wrap an outer layer with a plastic bag to avoid hindering air circulation. Similarly, refrigeration is not necessary for storing Pu'er tea. ② Canister Storage Method Using a canister to store Pu'er tea is a relatively scientific method, which is more suitable for collectors. A well-sealed canister can effectively prevent the tea from becoming damp, avoid contact with air that could cause oxidation reactions, and has the effect of waking up the tea. It is recommended to use a purple clay jar or a ceramic jar. Additionally, different teas should not come into contact with each other to prevent flavor contamination, as the varieties and aromas of Pu'er tea…

Searching for "Puer tea" on e-commerce platforms, you'll find prices ranging from a few dozen yuan to tens of thousands of yuan per pound. Despite being the same type of Puer tea, the price differences are vast. What accounts for these disparities? Origin - Just as wine is distinguished by vineyard, Puer tea is characterized by its mountain origin. There are three major tea regions for Puer tea: Xishuangbanna, Pu'er, and Lincang. The most well-known mountains include twelve ancient tea mountains. Divided by the Lancang River, the six tea mountains north of the river are Youle, Yibang, Gedeng, Manzhuang, Mangzhi, and Yiwu, known as the "six tea mountains within the river." South of the river, the six tea mountains are Nannuo Mountain, Mengsong, Bada, Bulang Mountain, Jinghong Mengsong, and Menghai, referred to as the "six tea mountains outside the river." In addition to these twelve ancient tea mountains, in recent years, popular origins have emerged such as Ban Zhang, Mansong, and Bingdao. The hydrological conditions, soil, temperature, altitude, and sunlight intensity vary significantly across different regions, often possessing uniqueness. This uniqueness gives rise to Puer tea's "distinct flavor of each mountain." The powerful character of Old Ban Zhang and the…

Pu'er tea has a long history in Chinese culture, being a type of tea that stands the test of time or gains value with age. People believe in its excellence because it is considered "the most natural and ecological healthy drink of contemporary times," as well as "an antique tea that can be consumed."A typical cake of tea weighs 357 grams, so why are there cakes priced at over ten thousand that still find buyers! At this price, it's quite expensive. Many people ask, what justifies such high prices for Pu'er tea? When choosing Pu'er tea, should one opt for the right tea or the expensive one? Two common mistakes made by beginners when buying tea Mistake 1: Buying only the expensive, not the suitable The first extreme when buying tea is to purchase based solely on a high price, regardless of personal taste preferences. Buying Pu'er tea with the mindset of choosing only the expensive without considering your own palate is not ideal. While a 9.9 yuan per kilogram Laobanzhang is certainly fake, even teas bought at a high price may have a production cost of just dozens of yuan. Therefore, when purchasing and consuming tea, there's no need…

What is Tieguanyin? Tieguanyin is a semi-fermented tea that belongs to the oolong category, widely popular for its unique aroma and flavor. Originating from Anxi County in Fujian Province, China, it is one of the top ten famous teas in China. The leaves of Tieguanyin are thick and robust, retaining their rich fragrance even after multiple infusions, earning the reputation of having "lingering fragrance after seven infusions." The History and Legends of Tieguanyin There are two main legends about the origin of Tieguanyin. One involves Wang Shishi, who is said to have discovered a special tea plant during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. After cultivating and processing it, he presented it to Emperor Qianlong, who bestowed upon it the name "Tieguanyin." Another legend revolves around Wei Yin, who found and cultivated this exceptional tea plant following a dream in which he was guided by the Bodhisattva Guanyin, naming it after her. The Production Process of Tieguanyin The production process of Tieguanyin is intricate, involving over a dozen steps such as cooling, sun-drying, shaking, stir-frying, rolling, initial roasting, re-roasting, and slow baking over a low flame. Each step must be executed with precision to ensure high-quality tea. During production,…

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:…

Modern pharmacological studies have found that Pu'er tea can reduce fat and aid weight loss, lower blood pressure, combat arterial hardening, prevent cancer, improve skin health, nourish the stomach, strengthen teeth and gums, reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, and fight aging. Aside from drinking it directly, Pu'er tea can also be used in culinary therapy. Below are 12 secrets of Pu'er tea wellness. 1. A natural health beverage The cancer-preventing and health benefits of Pu'er tea, once confirmed by the medical community, have boosted the confidence of tea enthusiasts. The lipid-lowering and appetite-suppressing properties of Pu'er tea have attracted countless beauty-conscious individuals and those looking to lose weight; middle-aged people who are prone to weight gain cannot do without Pu'er tea. Drinking it hot soothes the stomach and intestines and is particularly effective for constipation and frequent urination. Pu'er tea helps to replenish energy and solidify essence, making it beneficial for men with erectile dysfunction and prostate issues. The older the Pu'er tea (the longer it has been stored), the better its effects on boosting energy and enhancing virility. 2. Prevents and treats coronary heart disease Coronary heart disease, also known as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, can be effectively prevented…

Ming-Qian tea refers to the tea harvested before the Qingming Festival. It is less affected by pests, with tender buds and leaves that are bright green in color, delicate in fragrance, mellow in taste, and beautiful in form, making it a premium quality tea. At the same time, since the temperature is generally lower before Qingming, the number of sprouts is limited, and their growth rate is slow, very little of it reaches the standards for picking, hence the saying "Ming-Qian tea is as precious as gold." Ming-Qian tea refers to the tea harvested before the Qingming Festival. It is less affected by pests, with tender buds and leaves that are bright green in color, delicate in fragrance, mellow in taste, and beautiful in form, making it a premium quality tea. At the same time, since the temperature is generally lower before Qingming, the number of sprouts is limited, and their growth rate is slow, very little of it reaches the standards for picking, hence the saying "Ming-Qian tea is as precious as gold." Characteristics of Ming-Qian Spring Tea Ming-Qian tea (spring tea) is better than summer or autumn tea. Due to the moderate spring temperatures and ample rainfall, along…

Pu'er tea, a beverage with a long history and rich cultural heritage, is beloved for its unique taste and health benefits. However, there has been a longstanding debate among enthusiasts: is raw Pu'er tea better, or ripe Pu'er tea? There's no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on personal taste and needs. If you're interested in understanding the differences between raw and ripe Pu'er teas, along with their respective pros and cons, this article may provide some helpful insights. Raw vs. Ripe: Unveiling Their Origins and Evolution The primary difference between raw and ripe Pu'er teas lies in their production processes. Raw tea is made directly from fresh leaves that undergo withering, fixation, and sun-drying, while ripe tea is subjected to a post-fermentation process after being processed as raw tea. The post-fermentation process is a critical step in the production of ripe Pu'er tea. During this process, the tea leaves are exposed to high temperatures and humidity, allowing microorganisms to trigger a series of complex chemical reactions that give ripe tea its distinctive taste and aroma. Raw Tea: The Aged Charm of Time-Honored Flavors Raw Pu'er tea retains the original flavor of the fresh leaves since it isn't…

It is well known that drinking tea has many benefits for the human body. Tea can invigorate, relieve fatigue, aid digestion, quench thirst, and promote diuresis and de-swelling. In particular, green tea, Oolong tea are better than black tea, and they have anti-cancer properties. Tea can help regulate the body's acid-base balance and contains abundant Vitamin C, Vitamin E, carotene, niacin, potassium, calcium, selenium, fluoride, and other nutrients, all of which are beneficial to the human body, including the kidneys. However, some people point out that tea contains caffeine. A cup of tea generally has 30% to 50% of the caffeine found in a cup of coffee. Strong teas contain even more caffeine. It has been shown that caffeine can cause normal cells to become abnormal, potentially leading to cancer. Excessive consumption of strong tea can overexcite the nervous system, increase the burden on the heart and kidneys, stimulate the secretion of gastrin, potentially causing peptic ulcers, and tannic acid can easily bind with iron, reducing the absorption of iron, an essential component for hematopoiesis (blood formation). The timing of tea drinking is also important. One should not drink tea immediately after a meal; it is best to wait half…

Xiaoxinggan Pu'er tea is loved by tea enthusiasts due to its unique production method and its compact size. Its distinctive taste and refreshing fruity aroma are also highly sought after. But do you really know how to store it properly? Let's explore the correct storage methods for Xiaoxinggan Pu'er tea. Correct Storage Methods for Xiaoxinggan Pu'er Tea: (1) Store in a sealed, shaded, and dry environment; Xiaoxinggan Pu'er tea is sensitive to light. If exposed to light for an extended period, it can cause an optical reaction within the tea, leading to oxidation and a reduction in flavor. Therefore, it should be stored in a dimly lit area away from direct sunlight. Dried Xiaoxinggan must be sealed and stored in a clean, dry, uncontaminated, and non-humid environment. This is because the oily substances on the outer surface of the tangerine peel are prone to evaporation. On humid days or in damp weather, if not sealed properly, the peel may soften or even mold. We recommend storing Xiaoxinggan Pu'er tea in food-grade sealed bags or containers, which makes it convenient to observe the condition inside and promptly deal with any potential issues such as mold. (2) Protect against moisture, pests, and…

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

Cinnamon tea, a name that piques curiosity right from the start. Today, let's delve into the world of cinnamon tea and explore its unique aroma and exceptional taste. One: Tracing the Origins of Cinnamon Tea Cinnamon tea has a long and storied history. As one of China’s traditional famous teas, it holds a significant place in tea culture. From ancient times to the present, cinnamon tea has captivated tea lovers with its distinctive fragrance and flavor. Two: Exploring the Characteristics and Charm of Cinnamon Tea Cinnamon tea is renowned for its pronounced cinnamon aroma, which is rich and lasting, as if immersing one in a grove of cinnamon trees. Its color is bright red, and its taste is full-bodied with a sweet aftertaste, making it unforgettable. There are different classifications such as genuine rock cinnamon and semi-rock cinnamon, each with its own unique flavor. Three: Visiting the Origin and Craftsmanship of Cinnamon Tea Wuyi Mountain, as the primary origin of cinnamon tea, produces high-quality tea leaves thanks to its unique geographical environment. The production process of cinnamon tea is meticulous, from picking to roasting, with every step carefully executed to preserve the original flavor of the tea leaves. Four: Revealing…

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 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…

Enthusiasts of Pu'er tea who have been enjoying it for some time will undoubtedly have a fine collection at home, ready to be savored over time. It's crucial to properly manage humidity and odors to preserve your beloved teas. Here, we discuss the four don'ts and do's of storing Pu'er tea. The Four Taboos of Storing Pu'er Tea at Home Taboo One: Avoid High Temperatures High temperatures accelerate the degradation of chlorophyll in Pu'er tea, causing it to convert into de-magnified chlorophyll, changing its fresh green color to dark brown. The auto-oxidation of polyphenols and other substances also accelerates under high temperatures. Research shows that for every 10°C increase in temperature, the rate of browning in Pu'er tea accelerates, affecting its quality and aging process. Taboo Two: Avoid Direct Sunlight The plant pigments and lipids in Pu'er tea are susceptible to photochemical reactions, which can produce sun-dried and other off-flavors. Pu'er tea is particularly sensitive to light, so it should be stored away from direct sunlight. Taboo Three: Avoid Strong Odors Tea leaves are porous and easily absorb odors. Therefore, avoid storing Pu'er tea in places with strong odors, as these can taint the tea's natural flavor. Taboo Four: Avoid…

From English Breakfast to Earl Grey, from iced tea to milk tea – there is no way you have never tried black tea before. You may even instantly think of black tea when you hear the word “tea.” Thanks to its bold flavor and long shelf life, black tea is regarded as one of the most famous teas in the world. It is now grown in multiple parts of the world – from Asia to Europe – helping black tea to become even more famous! You may have seen it, tasted it, or even fallen in love with it - but what exactly is black tea? What is the difference between black tea and green tea? Is black tea good for our health? The history of black tea We may know this type of tea by the name “black tea” because of its dark color, but it’s actually not called black tea in its birthplace! Black tea, also known as “red tea (红茶)” in China, is a relatively new type of tea. And just like other types of tea, the history of black tea began in China, where it was first processed from Camellia sinensis leaves. Black tea was discovered…

Puer tea, originating from Yunnan Province in China, is renowned worldwide for its unique aged fragrance and rich taste. Among them, Puer raw tea is particularly cherished by tea enthusiasts for its long history and profound cultural significance. Puer raw tea refers to Puer tea that has not undergone the process of pile-fermentation. Its leaves have a dark green color, and when brewed, the infusion appears bright yellowish-green. The taste is fresh, brisk, and sweet, with a delicate and refined aroma. Puer raw tea is rich in polyphenols, caffeine, amino acids, and other beneficial substances, offering health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, antioxidant properties, and anti-aging effects. The brewing method for Puer raw tea also requires some attention to detail. Generally, the water temperature for brewing should be around 90-95°C, and the steeping time can be adjusted according to personal preference. Puer raw tea has a high durability for steeping and can typically withstand 10-15 infusions. Brewing Steps for Puer Raw Tea: Awakening the Tea: Place the Puer raw tea in a teapot or a gaiwan and rinse it with boiling water. Quickly pour out the water to remove any dust or impurities on the surface of…

Winter has arrived, and with it comes a significant drop in temperature, freezing cold, and the dormancy of all living things. The cold invades, causing human physiological functions to weaken, and the body's physiological activities are in a state of suppression, with yang energy gradually declining. Women, in particular, may notice their hands and feet turning icy cold and their resistance decreasing. Drinking tea can help keep the cold at bay during winter. So, what kind of tea is best for winter? A dark tea, such as Liubao Tea, which is one of the warm-natured teas suitable for this season. Liubao Tea is produced in Liubao Town, Cangwu County, Wuzhou City, Guangxi. Just like Longjing Tea, Liubao Tea gets its name from its place of origin. Wuzhou City has a unique terrain, often described as "eight parts mountain, one part water, and one part field." The warm and humid climate makes it an ideal environment for tea trees to thrive. What specific nourishing effects does Liubao Tea grown in such a favorable environment offer? Nourishing Effects of Liubao Tea 1. Warm the Stomach Winter is the coldest season of the year, and human physiological functions decline due to the severe…