For many newcomers, there may indeed be some confusion. After all, the culture of purple clay has continued for hundreds of years, enduring and thriving, playing an increasingly important role in Tea culture. This further illustrates that for tea drinkers, a purple clay pot is indispensable tea ware. Many seasoned tea enthusiasts have used purple clay pots from the beginning, and later even purchased dozens of various styles of Yixing purple clay pots. To those unfamiliar with purple clay pots, this may seem quite perplexing! Why do so many people like to brew tea using a purple clay pot?
Why is Tea Brewed in a Purple Clay Pot Better?
The most direct benefit is that it doesn't get too hot to handle. Due to the nature of the material, a purple clay pot does not conduct heat easily. Also, because of the unique shape of the pot, one's hand is less likely to touch the walls of the pot.
A purple clay pot can absorb the aroma of tea. The unique material allows a frequently used clay pot to retain the tea fragrance, and the longer the pot is used, the stronger the tea scent it retains.
A purple clay pot keeps tea warm for a long time. Inside the walls of the pot, there are numerous small air bubbles filled with non-moving gas, which reduces heat loss and maintains warmth effectively.
A purple clay pot performs well. Professional tea brewing requires placing the Teaware on fire to cook, and materials like ceramic or glass may crack if not handled carefully, potentially causing injury. A purple clay pot has good heat dissipation and will not crack when heated, making it safer to use.
A purple clay pot can preserve the taste of tea to the fullest extent. Unlike other teaware, the walls of a purple clay pot are relatively rough, and due to its unique material, it can preserve the taste of tea without allowing it to dissipate along a smooth wall.
The longer a purple clay pot is used, the more lustrous its body becomes. Regular handling during the tea brewing process, along with the fact that brewing tea also nurtures the pot, results in a smoother and shinier appearance over time.
What Types of Tea Are Suitable for Brewing in a Purple Clay Pot?
A purple clay pot is suitable for brewing black tea, dark tea, Pu'er tea, aged white tea, Oolong Tea, Wuyi rock tea, etc. Purple clay pots have a dual-pore structure, which allows them to adapt well to sudden temperature changes. Furthermore, they have good heat retention properties, which help maintain the balance of the tea Infusion, absorb any off-flavors from the tea leaves, thus preserving the purity of the tea's aroma. They also enhance the aroma of the tea and ensure the fullest expression of flavor and aroma.
When it comes to what type of tea is best brewed in a purple clay pot, it largely depends on the clay used. For brewing oolong tea, a zini (vermillion) clay pot is ideal. For green tea and floral teas, a satin clay pot is recommended. For Pu'er and black tea, a dingcaoqing (basement groove green) clay pot is more appropriate.