Tea Knowledge

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

Tieguanyin, one of China's famous teas, is renowned worldwide for its unique aroma, flavor, and health benefits. However, have you ever wondered why this tea is named "Tieguanyin"? What story and symbolism does it carry? Legend Traced: Guanyin Appears, Bestowing Fine Tea There are several versions about the origin of the name Tieguanyin, but the most widely known is the legend of "Guanyin appearing." It is said that in Xiping Village, Anxi County, Fujian Province, there was a devout tea farmer named Wang Shirang. He had been planting tea for generations and had a deep affection for it. One day, Wang Shirang made a wish before the statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva, praying for her blessing to grow better tea. That night, Wang Shirang dreamt that Guanyin Bodhisattva appeared and guided him to a cliffside. After waking up, he followed the guidance from his dream and found a peculiar tea tree by the cliff. The branches and leaves of this tea tree were verdant, the leaves thick and lustrous, shaped like the sitting posture of Guanyin Bodhisattva. Wang Shirang transplanted this tea tree back home and tended to it with great care. A few years later, when the tea tree matured,…

When did the variety of Wuyi Rock Tea originate? According to "The New Gazetteer of Tong'an County," "Wuyi tea was originally wild, not planted by human hands. It is said that it was first discovered by an old man... The old man first offered the tea and after his death, he was revered as a mountain deity and enjoyed temple sacrifices." In Fan Zhongyan's "Song of Tea Competition with Zhang Min," it states: "The miraculous tea by the stream surpasses all in the world, cultivated since ancient times by the immortals of Wuyi." The "immortals of Wuyi" likely refer to the distant ancestors of the Wuyi tea region, traditionally believed to be Wuyi Jun or Pengzu. According to Hu Haochuan's research, Wuyi Caicha evolved from a wild species. Professor Zhuang Wanfang believes that Wuyi tea was cultivated by ancients or possibly introduced from Wulong Ridge in Zhejiang Province. Caicha is the mother of Wuyi teas and is the collective term for the sexually propagated group of tea trees in Wuyi. This means these teas are as common as the vegetables grown around the house, only for everyday drinking. In the natural environment of Wuyi Mountain, due to the cross-pollination of…

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…

Introduction: For storing Tieguanyin, it is generally recommended to keep it at a low temperature and in a sealed vacuum. This can preserve the color, aroma, and flavor of the Tieguanyin for a short period. However, why do we often find that even when stored for a relatively short time, the tea's quality does not match its initial state when first brewed? How can Tieguanyin tea be properly stored? 1. Drying Degree After Fermentation The current tea-making techniques are trending towards lighter fermentation, with the teas from Gande being a typical example. In light fermentation, the tea tends to exhibit a high, orchid-like fragrance. Typically, such teas are not dried excessively, meaning they retain some moisture. When storing this type of tea, it is essential to maintain low temperatures and ensure airtight sealing to minimize the effects of moisture. 2. Fermentation Degree During Production If the fermentation process is controlled just before it reaches its peak, the tea will continue to undergo post-fermentation over time, allowing it to be stored for a longer duration. However, if the tea is allowed to ferment to its peak right from the start, special care must be taken during storage to prevent further post-fermentation…

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

Tea lovers have likely heard about the practice of "washing tea." Some say the first infusion should be discarded, while others disagree. So, should you discard the first infusion? Let's explore this topic today. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) What is "Washing Tea"? The term "washing tea" is familiar; literally, it means "washing the tea leaves." Many people are accustomed to soaking the tea leaves before brewing with a purple clay pot or a covered bowl, then discarding the first infusion, which they call "washing tea." In professional tea ceremony procedures, this is even listed as a mandatory step. But is "washing tea" really necessary? (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) The Historical Origins of "Washing Tea" "Washing tea" has a long history. In the Ming Dynasty, Tu Long's "Kao Pan Yu Shi" mentions: "When brewing tea, first wash the tea with hot water to remove dust, dirt, and coldness, which makes the tea more flavorful." This suggests that the ancient purpose of washing tea was to remove impurities and coldness from the surface of the leaves, thereby improving its taste. However, in modern tea processing, is this practice still necessary? Is "Washing Tea" Necessary for Modern…

We often drink tea, but are you aware of these lesser-known facts? ▼ ▼A merchant from New York, Thomas Sullivan, began distributing tea in small silk bags to his customers, intending for them to pour the tea out to brew. However, the customers misunderstood... ▼ Comparison of antioxidants in tea ▼ Sugar content in a cup of tea ▼ Tea has been transformed worldwide ▼ All tea leaves come from one species – the tea plant. Different varieties of tea plants from different origins, processed in various ways, become the six types of tea that we see.

The differences between raw and ripe Pu'er tea: 1. Raw tea is mainly green or dark green in color; ripe tea is black or reddish-brown. 2. After picking, raw tea goes through processes such as withering, fixation, etc.; ripe tea also goes through fixation, kneading, etc. after picking. 3. After brewing, the infusion of raw tea is light green or golden yellow; the infusion of ripe tea is chestnut red or dark red. 4. The water temperature for brewing raw tea is slightly lower; ripe tea can be brewed with boiling water. The differences between raw and ripe Pu'er tea: 1. Process differences Raw Pu'er tea is made from fresh leaves that undergo withering, fixation, kneading, sun-drying, steaming, and pressing. Ripe Pu'er tea is made from fresh leaves that undergo withering, fixation, kneading, sun-drying, and pile fermentation. In other words, ripe Pu'er tea is made through pile fermentation based on sun-dried green tea. However, there are no loose teas for raw Pu'er; only compressed teas exist. Teas before steaming and pressing are just sun-dried green teas, which belong to a type of green tea. Only ripe Pu'er tea has both loose and compressed forms. Tea cakes, brick teas, and tuo…

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…

Time, years pass by, becoming the sediment of your dreams, or the burial of them. All loneliness and deep affection, countless expectations and waits, become the rich sediment that fulfills your life. The world is rich, life is pure. This week, in cup after cup of tea, savor Liubao tea, savor yourself. Today, I'll share some storage insights on Liubao tea. In storing Liubao tea, I've paid a lot of tuition fees, taken many detours, and am constantly summarizing and improving. Currently, I prefer the following methods: 1. Liubao tea does not suit being too dry or too moist. Personally, I pursue natural storage, with humidity between 60 to 75 degrees. When it exceeds 75 degrees, I control the humidity appropriately. If stored in a highly sealed environment, open windows regularly for ventilation. Some dryness may be due to the need for periodic turnover; I suggest turning over once a year. 2. The warehouse should be cool, quiet, and not transparent. It's recommended to use blackout cloth to cover glass windows to prevent direct sunlight. Since tea prefers to sleep and remain quiet, some warehouses even suggest not allowing outsiders to visit. During regular tea retrieval and warehouse inspection, only…

 "All medicines are for specific ailments, tea is the remedy for myriad diseases." For a long time, tea has had medicinal and health-preserving properties. Nowadays, the health benefits of tea have gained increased attention, with more and more research being conducted on its therapeutic and health-preserving effects. What exactly can tea prevent or combat? Cancer Prevention More than four thousand authoritative papers on the topic of "tea and cancer" demonstrate that the main component of tea polyphenols, EGCG, is virtually the nemesis of all cancers, particularly effective against uterine, skin, lung, colon, prostate, liver, kidney, and breast cancers. The scientific researchers at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that various types of tea inhibit the synthesis of cancer cells by an average rate of 65%, indicating their anti-cancer properties. Regular consumption of green tea reduces the risk of cancer by over 60% Data from studies conducted by institutions such as Japan's National Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University in the United States, and Curtin University in Australia indicate that men who regularly drink green tea have a 60% lower incidence of prostate cancer compared to those who do not drink it regularly. Drinking two cups of tea…

Tea culture in China has a long history, and the variety of tea brewing tools is vast. Porcelain, as an ancient and elegant tool for brewing tea, has always been favored by tea enthusiasts. But is porcelain really suitable for brewing tea? This article will take you through all aspects of brewing tea with porcelain. (Image source: internet, delete if infringement) Advantages of Brewing Tea with Porcelain Porcelain has been an excellent choice for brewing tea since ancient times, mainly due to the following advantages: 1. Preserves Tea Aroma: The delicate and smooth material of porcelain does not absorb the aroma of the tea, thus it can well preserve the original aroma of the tea leaves. This is particularly important for teas with rich aromas, such as Tieguanyin and Oolong tea. 2. Good Heat Conduction: Porcelain has moderate heat conduction properties, which allows it to evenly disperse heat, keeping the tea temperature stable. This prevents over-steeping or sudden drops in temperature that could affect the taste of the tea. 3. Aesthetically Pleasing: Porcelain is beautifully crafted with rich patterns and designs, offering high aesthetic value. Whether at home or in a teahouse, brewing tea with porcelain is a feast for…

During holidays, many tea enthusiasts receive a considerable amount of tea. However, it's often the case that you can't finish drinking all the tea right away, which brings up the question of how to store it properly. The gift box packaging that usually comes with tea isn't ideal for long-term storage. Therefore, after bringing the tea home, it needs to be repackaged and stored correctly. Typically, we might consider putting opened packages in the refrigerator, but this is problematic since other foods are also stored there, which can lead to the tea absorbing unwanted odors. Opening and closing the refrigerator can also cause the tea to become damp. Without a dedicated refrigerator for tea, it may actually spoil more easily. For daily household storage of small quantities of tea, you can try this method: Wrap the tea in kraft paper or another thick type of paper. The moisture content of the tea should be low, such that when you crush the leaves between your fingers, they turn into powder. Place the wrapped tea around the sides of a high-quality ceramic jar and put a packet of block-shaped lime in the center, adjusting its size based on the amount of tea.…

To achieve the status of being more fragrant, valuable, and desirable with age, Pu'er tea must meet three criteria: good raw materials, good processing techniques, and proper storage conditions. Generally, the optimal period for ripe Pu'er is around 10 years, while that for raw Pu'er is around 20 years. However, it's important to remember that tea is meant to be consumed, not just stored. The Foundation for Pu'er Tea Increasing in Value with Age Not all Pu'er tea improves with age to become "more fragrant and valuable." In addition to the quality of the raw materials and the processing methods used, the storage environment during aging significantly impacts its overall transformation. If the raw materials are of poor quality or if improper processing leads to premature consumption of the internal substances, such Pu'er tea does not possess the potential for beneficial aging. Similarly, inadequate storage can ruin the tea. Pu'er tea that has aged without an improvement in quality, or even becomes less enjoyable than fresh tea, cannot be expected to increase in value. What Kind of Pu'er Tea Is Worth Storing 1. Brand. There are many old teas circulating in the market today, but almost all mainstream, well-known, and…

Generally, fresh green tea refers to the green tea produced in the current year (which can age and become old if not properly stored); old green tea refers to the green tea produced in the previous year. The quality differences in green tea are quite significant, and identification can be based on the appearance of the dry leaves, the brewed tea, and the infused leaves. Fresh green tea has a bright, lustrous green color and a rich, fragrant aroma; the brewed tea is jade green with a clear fragrance, orchid aroma, or roasted chestnut scent, the taste is sweet and refreshing, and the infused leaves are bright and vivid green. Old green tea has a dull, yellowish color with no luster, a low aroma or a stale smell; the brewed tea is dark yellow in color, the taste lacks freshness, and the infused leaves are yellowish and lack brightness. How to Identify Year-Old Green Tea? Visually, old tea will appear yellow or brown due to prolonged storage or improper preservation, which causes the loss of chlorophyll from the new leaves. The surface gloss of the leaves diminishes, and the vitality decreases. Such old tea can be recognized at a glance,…

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…

Home Tea Storage and Warehouse Storage Evaluation 1. Home tea storage originated in Hong Kong and Taiwan. In the mid-20th century, after the founding of the People's Republic of China, Pu'er tea consumption (except in Tibet) largely ceased on the Chinese mainland. Only Hong Kong retained a partial market for Pu'er tea. Hong Kong introduced Pu'er tea to Taiwan and some Southeast Asian countries. As such, due to its unique trading position, Hong Kong naturally became a distribution center for Pu'er tea. In fact, the concept of tea storage and even post-fermentation of Pu'er tea was born out of trade. In other words, although there has been a saying in Yunnan since ancient times that "grandfathers make tea, grandsons sell it" (another version is "grandsons drink it"), the initial concept of tea storage in Hong Kong was simply about stockpiling goods. However, over time, this gradually evolved into a more conscious approach to tea storage, with various methods being explored and moving towards professional tea storage. Due to Hong Kong's high population density and limited land, as well as limited warehouse conditions, along with the relatively small proportion of tea in overall trade, the capital and economic strength of those…

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,…

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…

In the vast ocean of Chinese tea culture, Pu'er tea shines like a brilliant pearl, radiating with its millennia of brilliance. Today, we will embark on this journey of discovery together, delving deeply into the two treasures of Pu'er tea—Sheng Pu'er and Shou Pu'er—and savoring their unique charm and elegance. I. Sheng Pu'er: Encountering Fresh and Pristine Beauty When we talk about Sheng Pu'er tea, it's as if we can smell the fresh scent from the tea mountains. Sheng Pu'er, with its original and natural flavor, has become a favorite among tea enthusiasts. It originates from the vast tea mountains of Yunnan, using the precious raw material of sun-dried large-leaf tea from the region, each leaf containing the essence of nature. When brewing Sheng Pu'er, the rising aroma is like a gentle morning breeze in the mountains, carrying a hint of coolness that softly brushes against your cheeks. At first taste, the bitterness might make you slightly frown, but upon closer appreciation, you'll discover a sweetness and aftertaste that is hard to describe. This unique mouthfeel comes from the tannins and caffeine in the tea, as if telling you that while life may be bitter at times, it also contains…

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…

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…

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…