Brew Tea

Many teas are not suitable for direct steeping in boiling water. For example, green tea, young or lightly aged raw Pu'er, black tea, and even oolong tea. Teas that are suitable for steeping tend to be coarser and older, such as dark teas or white teas that have been aged longer. If we consider steeping a tea for an entire night or day and it still isn’t bitter or astringent, and is even better than when brewed, the likely candidate would be old Liubao tea. Old Liubao tea can be brewed, steeped, or boiled. It is highly cost-effective, easy to store, beneficial to health, and most importantly, suitable for the majority of people's constitutions. This makes it all the more remarkable. This is also why I have come to appreciate and endorse Liubao tea more and more. The longer I spend in Wuzhou, Guangxi, and Liubao Town, the more I fall in love with Liubao tea, whether it’s made using traditional methods yielding the “Liubao character,” or modern processes producing rich, dark, aged flavors. I am increasingly influenced by the local custom of drinking Liubao tea here. In the mountains of Liubao Town, laborers often drink fresh tea. Whether it’s…

Region-specific, naturally processed, and uniquely beneficial—these are the common perceptions of Fuding White Tea. There is a certain art to brewing Fuding White Tea, and the method can vary depending on the type of white tea. Choosing the most suitable brewing method will result in an even more enjoyable cup of white tea.Types of Fuding White Tea Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) Silver Needle: Silver Needle is the pinnacle of white teas. It is made from the buds of white tea plants, named for its plump, silvery-white covered buds that stand straight like needles and shine with a silver hue. When brewed, the tea liquor is clear and apricot-yellow, with a strong presence of downy aroma, a sweet fragrance, and a fresh, sweet taste that refreshes the heart and lungs. The leaves stand upright in the cup, full and pleasing to the eye. White Peony (Bai Mudan) White Peony: White Peony is made from the first or second leaf and bud of the tea plant. It gets its name because the green leaves with silver-white down resemble flowers, and when brewed, the green leaves cradle the tender buds, much like a flower bud about to open. The finished product…

Those who have tasted Biluochun will sincerely praise its subtle green color, soft and even leaf base, elegant fragrance, and refreshing taste. Biluochun is one of the representative products of green tea, and the components of Biluochun tea have various physiological and pharmacological effects on the human body. So how should Biluochun be brewed? How to Brew Biluochun Tea for Optimal Flavor 1. Preparation method for loose-leaf tea 1. Scald the cup by pouring in freshly boiled water to clean the cup, then place the tea leaves into the cup. At this point, the temperature of the cup is high enough to gently release the aroma of the tea. 2. Pour an appropriate temperature of water into the cup, enough to cover the tea leaves. If using a lidded bowl, place the lid upside down on the side of the cup and pour water over it, allowing it to run down the side of the cup. If using a glass cup, pour along the edge of the glass and gently swirl the cup to fully immerse the tea leaves. 3. Wait for about two minutes to allow the dry tea to absorb water and unfurl, then top up with water.…

The air is crisp and dry in autumn, a season when lungs are particularly vulnerable. Drinking tea properly at this time can help alleviate the dryness of the season and moisturize the lungs. A "weather map" has been developed for tea drinking, offering guidance tailored to different individuals based on the unique properties of various teas. Green Tea Green tea is unfermented. Teas like Longjing, Biluochun, and Sparrow's Tongue all belong to this category. Characteristics: Clear green liquor and leaves. Green tea is commonly believed to have effects such as lowering blood lipids, reducing blood pressure, and aiding weight loss. Regular smokers may benefit from drinking green tea, which can mitigate the harmful effects of nicotine. White Tea White tea is a slightly fermented tea. Pai Mu Tan (White Peony), Gongmei (Tribute Eyebrow), and Bai Hao Yinzhen (Silver Needle) are all examples of white tea. There is a folk saying that white tea is "a year's tea, three years' medicine, and seven years' treasure." White tea possesses excellent health benefits. In addition to the common nutrients found in other teas, it contains essential active enzymes. Medical studies have shown that regular consumption of white tea can significantly increase the activity…

After the summer solstice, the weather becomes increasingly hot, and in the southern regions with persistent heavy rainfall, humidity is high, making it feel particularly muggy. Many people believe that when the weather gets hotter, they should drink more cold beverages to cool down, and they can’t help but consume more iced drinks and chilled foods. However, during the scorching summer months, drinking cold beverages for cooling down is only a temporary solution and excessive consumption of cold items may actually be detrimental to health. On the contrary, the hotter the weather, the more appropriate it is to drink something warm. The Hotter the Weather, the More Refreshing Hot Tea Is In hot weather, the body temperature is elevated, and drinking cold or icy water suddenly is like pouring water on a fire; it can achieve the purpose of “extinguishing the flames and lowering the temperature” in the short term, but the fire is likely to die out quickly. Lutong’s "Poem of Seven Bowls of Tea" states: One bowl moistens throat and lips. Two bowls dispel loneliness and melancholy. Three bowls clear the mind, with five thousand scrolls of text swirling within. Four bowls induce a light sweat, dissipating all…

For many tea enthusiasts, throughout the year and especially during autumn and winter, one indispensable type of tea is likely black tea. Black tea has a gentle nature and is rich in proteins and sugars, warming the body and soothing the spirit. In the category of gongfu black teas, Yunnan black tea, commonly known as Dian Hong, stands out. Dian Hong is made from the large-leaf tea trees native to Yunnan, resulting in a tea that is elegant in appearance and rich in flavor, with a fresh aroma and a robust taste. Compared to traditional small-leaf black teas from other regions, Dian Hong made from Yunnan's large-leaf variety offers a more substantial and rich flavor. Moreover, Dian Hong has been well-received in overseas markets, once playing a valuable role in financing the war effort by generating much-needed foreign currency. To this day, Dian Hong continues to enjoy a global reputation for its exceptional quality. So, how should Dian Hong be brewed for the best results? Teaware for Brewing Dian Hong The teaware used for brewing Dian Hong must be appropriate to complement the unique beauty of the tea while allowing its fresh and pleasant aroma to be fully released. When…

Green tea is characterized by its elegant appearance, fresh and sweet taste, and rich aroma. Therefore, drinking green tea is not only about the taste of the tea infusion but also about appreciating the process of brewing green tea. 1. To brew green tea, a glass cup or white porcelain cup is preferred. Glass cups and white porcelain cups better showcase the beauty of green tea and help achieve a great tasting experience. 2. When brewing green tea, the water temperature should be carefully considered. For delicate green teas, the water temperature should be slightly lower, around 85 degrees Celsius. 3. To brew green tea, place approximately 2 grams of green tea into the cup, then pour in hot water, and once the tea infusion has cooled slightly, it is ready to drink. 4. A useful tip for brewing green tea is refilling the cup. Many green teas are not very robust, so when there's about one-third of the tea left in the cup, refill it with more hot water. This will make the green tea more durable and prevent the tea from becoming too hot in the cup.

When drinking tea, we often easily feel the sweet aftertaste, but there's another sensation that is often overlooked – the salivation that accompanies the sweet aftertaste.There's a term used to describe good tea: "salivation upon entry." Another term is "sweet and saliva-inducing." In short, good tea is surely saliva-inducing. But how does one determine if a tea induces salivation upon entry? " This sensation of salivation refers to the spontaneous secretion of saliva under the tongue when tea is tasted in the mouth, creating a slightly sour yet sweet sensation. This then spreads to the cheeks and the surface of the tongue. Why is this so? This is because the tea polyphenols, sugars, amino acids, pectin, vitamins, and other substances in tea all have the effect of stimulating saliva production in the mouth. Moreover, the higher the content of these substances in a tea, generally the stronger and longer-lasting the salivation-inducing effect. This is why it's said that the better the tea, the more it induces salivation. There are several types of salivation. 01Salivation at the Cheeks When the inner lining of the mouth tastes the tea, the stimulation from the tea polyphenols causes the inner walls on both sides…

The north wind sweeps the ground, blowing away fallen leaves and bringing a sky full of snow. It covers rooftops, blankets fields, and decorates mountains and rivers like a painting, transforming everything into a new scene. Today, we have heavy snow. Heavy snow signifies the start of mid-winter. Winter is a season that chills everything, and our bodies are quick to react to the cold. The stronger the cold winds blow, the more we tend to huddle up. To ensure our bodies function well in the cold, drinking hot tea at the right times is an excellent choice. Black Tea Wards Off Cold and Warms the Stomach To dispel the chill and enhance your ability to withstand the cold, black tea, with its warm nature, rich proteins, and sugars, can generate heat and warm the abdomen. Persistently using tea for mouth rinsing during winter can kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, while direct consumption can also help prevent influenza. One of the most appealing aspects of black tea is its versatility; you can add various ingredients according to your taste preferences to create your own unique flavor profile. Oolong Tea Reduces Fat and Relieves Greasiness The pharmacological effects of oolong tea…

Do you have the habit of drinking black tea regularly? Today, we're brewing some black tea!This is No. 1 Gongfu Black Tea from China Tea, a Yunnan large-leaf variety of gongfu black tea. Its raw materials are selected from Fengqing, offering a rather clear and sweet taste upon entry. Now, let's proceed with the brewing process. We've already cleaned the teaware. When brewing Dian Hong black tea, there's one thing to note: black tea doesn't like excessively high temperatures. If the temperature in the cup is too high, it can cause the tea to become sour. So, this is something to keep in mind. Taking tea: We'll use 5 grams of tea here. Adding tea: Next, we add the tea. Rinsing tea: The water temperature for rinsing doesn't need to be too high. Rinse for about 5 seconds, and you can pour out the rinse water. The color of the tea broth is a reddish-yellow hue; as you can see, it's very clear and bright, a beautiful color. The aroma from the cup is mainly floral, with honey notes being slightly weaker. Pouring water: Pour the water slowly, making sure the stream is especially fine. Similarly, after about 5 seconds,…

Dahongpao tea has a taste of orchid fragrance, with a rich and lasting aroma. High-quality Dahongpao has a refreshing aroma, and a beautiful taste that is sweet, smooth, and mellow upon entry. Low-quality Dahongpao tastes bitter, astringent, numbing, and sour. The Mouthfeel of Dahongpao: The leaves are stout and uniform in shape, with a fresh green-brown color. After brewing, the tea soup turns into a deep orange-yellow color, clear and bright. The leaves are soft and bright, with crimson edges and light green centers that are yellowish. It combines the mellow sweetness of black tea with the fresh fragrance of green tea, with a harmonious character that is not cold. Dahongpao comes in fragrant and rich styles. Its quality characteristics include a tight, neat leaf shape, a fresh green-brown color, and after brewing, an orange-yellow and bright tea soup, with leaves that display a pleasing contrast of red and green. Dahongpao’s most prominent feature is its rich orchid-like fragrance, with a high and lasting aroma and distinct rock character. Dahongpao is very resilient to multiple infusions, retaining its aroma even after seven or eight brews. How to Brew Dahongpao for Best Flavor 1. Clean the Teaware Good tea deserves good…

How to brew red broken tea? To prepare a cup of red broken tea that is full of color, aroma, and flavor, the preparatory work must be done well. For example, pack the red broken tea in cheesecloth or small sachets that everyone likes to use, portioned for each day. The amount required for a pot versus a single cup is different; about 5 grams is sufficient for one cup. How to Brew Red Broken Tea? Step 1 The process for red broken tea is relatively unique, and the dry tea has a finely crushed appearance. So many people wonder how to best brew red broken tea. Given its fine texture, the brewing time should be relatively quick, usually around 4 to 5 seconds. Step 2 To ensure clarity in the tea infusion, an appropriate amount of dry tea can be placed in a special filter paper bag. This makes it easy to prepare teabags. Remember to strain the tea when pouring to avoid the fine particles affecting the color of the infusion. Red broken tea is an excellent tea that tastes great when brewed this way. Step 3 Red broken tea can be placed in a simple brewing vessel…

It’s often said that in a cup of tea, water is the mother of tea, and the vessel is its father. Clearly, to present a good cup of tea, both water and the vessel play indispensable roles. How can we make the tea more textured? Among various factors, water temperature is particularly key, as it helps bring out the full strength of a fine tea. Why is Water Temperature Crucial for Tea Infusion? The saying “water is the mother of tea” not only refers to the source of water used for brewing but also emphasizes the importance of water temperature. A significant deviation in water temperature may waste the essence of the tea leaves. Why is water temperature crucial for tea? Water temperature influences the taste and aroma of the tea infusion by affecting the solubility of its components. In other words, different temperatures will result in varying chemical compositions in the tea infusion. The amino acids in tea leaves, which contribute to the fresh taste of the infusion and are beneficial to human health, dissolve at a water temperature of 60°C; Vitamin C starts to degrade at a water temperature of 70°C; Tannins and caffeine, which impart a bitter…

Salvia miltiorrhiza and prepared rehmannia are common traditional Chinese herbs with rich benefits, enjoyed by many. Can salvia miltiorrhiza and prepared rehmannia be brewed together as tea? This question has piqued the interest of many. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed answer, introducing the main benefits and precautions for these two herbs. (Image source: Internet. Please contact us if you wish to remove it.) Benefits and Uses of Salvia Miltiorrhiza Salvia miltiorrhiza is one of the commonly used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, offering various health benefits. Its primary benefits include promoting blood circulation, regulating the cardiovascular system, and detoxifying heat. The active ingredients in salvia miltiorrhiza can dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, and have supportive effects in preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Additionally, salvia miltiorrhiza has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate menstrual irregularities and dysmenorrhea. Benefits and Uses of Prepared Rehmannia Prepared rehmannia is also a common herb in traditional Chinese medicine, primarily used for nourishing yin and replenishing blood. It has the function of tonifying the liver and kidney and enriching essence and blood. It is often used to treat symptoms such as kidney deficiency, weakness in the lower…

Green tea retains a large amount of the natural substances found in fresh leaves. It preserves over 85% of the tea polyphenols and caffeine, around 50% of the chlorophyll, and loses very little of its vitamins. This results in the characteristic features of green tea: clear broth and green leaves with a strong astringent taste. Green Tea Glass Cup Brewing Method Clean the tea cup, then pour 85–90°C water into the cup, followed by adding the green tea. Generally, there is no need to cover the cup. The green tea leaves will slowly sink on their own, though at different rates; some will fall straight down, others will descend gradually, and some may float up and down before settling at the bottom of the cup. As the dry tea absorbs water, the leaves gradually unfurl, revealing their original appearance as single buds or leaves. The buds resemble spears or swords, while the leaves look like flags. The aroma of the tea rises from the surface of the broth, creating a refreshing and pleasant scent. Observe the color of the broth, which may range from yellow-green to clear, milky-white with a slight green hue, or light green with a hint of…

Biluochun, a green tea from Dongting Lake in Jiangsu Province, China, is beloved by tea enthusiasts for its unique aroma and refreshing taste. To brew the perfect cup of Biluochun, you need not only high-quality leaves but also the correct brewing method. In this guide, we will take you step-by-step through the essentials of brewing Biluochun, so you can enjoy its distinctive fragrance at home. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringing.) Selecting High-Quality Biluochun Leaves Before brewing Biluochun, ensure that you have purchased high-quality leaves. Good Biluochun has a delicate and tightly rolled appearance, with a silvery-green color, visible downy hairs, and a fresh and fragrant aroma. When buying, smell the leaves – good Biluochun should have a unique floral and fruity scent. Preparing Appropriate Tea Utensils The best choice for brewing Biluochun is a transparent glass cup, as it allows you to appreciate the beautiful unfolding of the leaves in water. Glass cups do not affect the taste of the tea. You may also choose white porcelain lidded bowls or purple clay pots, which also preserve the aroma and flavor of Biluochun well. Controlling Water Temperature Water temperature is key when brewing Biluochun. The leaves are tender, and…

The seven correct steps for brewing tea: boiling water, washing cups, adding tea, steeping, pouring tea, serving tea, and savoring tea. The first step is to boil the water for brewing. The second step is to rinse the teaware with boiling water. The third step is to add tea to the cup. The fourth step is to pour water into the cup to steep the tea. The fifth step is to pour the tea into the tea cups. The sixth step is to serve the tea to guests. The seventh step is to enjoy the tea with guests or friends. 1. Boiling Water To brew good tea, start by finding the most suitable water, with purified water or mineral water being the preferred choices among soft waters. One requirement for brewing tea is that the water needs to be boiled. Regardless of whether you are using 80°C or 90°C water for steeping, make sure to first bring it to a full boil at 100°C, then let it cool to the desired temperature. (Generally, tender green teas can be brewed with water around 80°C, while black teas use water around 90°C, and Pu'er or dark teas should be steeped in 100°C…

Flower tea, blending floral and tea aromas, not only has a unique taste but also offers various health benefits. To fully enjoy the deliciousness and efficacy of flower tea, the correct brewing method is crucial. Below, we will detail the brewing methods for several common types of flower tea. (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) Brewing Method for Rose Flower Tea Rose flower tea helps relieve stress and improve skin condition. Water temperature and time are key when brewing rose flower tea. 1. Take 5-6 dried rose flowers and place them in a teapot or teacup. 2. Control the water temperature between 85-90 degrees Celsius; do not use boiling water as it can destroy the aroma and nutrients of the roses. 3. Pour in hot water and let it steep for 3-5 minutes. Adjust the steeping time according to personal taste. (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) 4. Rose flower tea can be enjoyed on its own or with honey or lemon added to enhance the flavor. Brewing Method for Jasmine Flower Tea Jasmine flower tea has a pleasant fragrance that refreshes the mind. The correct brewing method ensures the full release of jasmine’s aroma. 1.…

This year's first typhoon with a real presence has finally arrived, and for those living by the coast, it brings a refreshing respite amidst the raging storm. On such an occasion, enjoying tea while watching the rain is a fine choice. Let’s quietly sip our tea indoors, and take a look at this tea-tasting guide. A mix of seriousness and jest, please take what you need. Choose tea gatherings with “tea vibes” When attending a tea gathering, opt for niche tea spaces that are not open to the public. While others post photos of their afternoon tea in new Chinese-style teahouses on social media, your posts should focus on the details—such as delicate hands pouring tea, beautiful tea leaves, unique tasting cups—and pair them with a subtle caption. This instantly conveys a sense of tea appreciation. The host owns a private tea courtyard and is well-known within the tea community; only invited guests can enter, or there may be entry fees and screening processes to ensure all participants share similar interests. The tea courtyard is either tucked away from the bustling city or nestled deep in the mountains. The decor looks rustic yet brimming with detail. It could be a…

Pu'er tea is a historic Chinese tea, classified as a post-fermented tea and a notable variety of dark tea. Pu'er tea is celebrated for its remarkable health benefits and mild nature that does not harm the stomach, making it a favorite among tea enthusiasts. As a beginner, how should one appreciate Pu'er tea? The appreciation of Pu'er tea involves experiencing five levels of its aroma: floating scent in water, scent entering the water, scent contained within the water, scent arising from the water, and scent becoming one with the water. Floating Scent in Water The most basic level of Pu'er tea aroma, where the scent is superficial and fleeting. It can be smelled but not fully tasted. Its characteristic is that while the scent is noticeable in the air during brewing and on the lid of the teacup, once ingested, the aroma significantly diminishes or even disappears. Scent Entering the Water A more developed level of Pu'er tea aroma, where much of the scent dissipates into the air, with a small portion blending into the tea liquor. This level of aroma provides an experience where the tea smells good and also tastes good, although not as fragrant as when smelled.…

Brewing white tea with boiling water at 90-100 degrees Celsius is best. Using 100-degree water when brewing white tea allows its intrinsic substances to be better manifested, making the tea broth more robust and flavorful. If water that is not hot enough is used to brew white tea, the intrinsic substances of the tea will not be effectively released in a short time, resulting in a bland tasting tea broth. What is the Optimal Water Temperature for the First Infusion of White Tea? Generally speaking, for high-grade white teas with buds and small, thin leaves, if the first infusion is done at too high a temperature, the inner substances will be released too quickly, leading to issues such as the tea not being resilient to multiple infusions, bitterness, and dehydration. If the first infusion is at too high a temperature, what could have been an enjoyable drinking process becomes quite unpleasant. We experimented with many varieties of white tea and found that 95 degrees Celsius is the upper limit of the optimal temperature range for the first infusion. Regardless of whether it's cake tea, loose tea, new tea, or aged tea, the temperature for the first infusion should not exceed…

Summer is hot, and you need a cup of warm tea. Here are some recommendations on what teas to drink in summer, a common question among tea enthusiasts. 01Drink White Tea or Aged Tieguanyin to Prevent Heatstroke High temperatures make heatstroke more likely, especially for those who work or play outdoors. In such cases, white tea is highly recommended. White tea is minimally processed, undergoing only slight fermentation, and has a naturally cooling character. Rich in amino acids, it effectively reduces body heat and combats the effects of summer heat, helping prevent heatstroke. Aged Tieguanyin is another traditional remedy used by Fujian tea farmers to combat the heat. This traditional Tieguanyin, stored for five to ten years or more, undergoes full fermentation over time and contains components that help reduce the effects of heatstroke. 02 Drink Black Tea to Boost Energy and Nourish the Stomach In summer, people often feel lethargic and drowsy. The caffeine in black tea can stimulate the central nervous system, increasing blood circulation and metabolism, thus boosting energy levels and alleviating fatigue. During summer, we tend to consume cold foods and drinks to cool down. However, this can harm our delicate stomachs. Black tea is warm…

Tea, as a traditional Chinese beverage, carries millennia of culture and wisdom. It is more than just a drink; it's a way of life and a pursuit of health and tranquility. However, while enjoying the delightful flavors of tea, we may unwittingly fall into common misconceptions. Today, let's uncover these misconceptions to make your tea drinking experience healthier and more enjoyable. I. Tea Is Not Indefinitely Storable In many people's minds, as long as tea remains dry and doesn't mold, it can be stored indefinitely. This is a serious misunderstanding. As a food product, tea has a clear shelf life, which varies depending on its type and processing method. For example, green tea typically has a shorter shelf life of around one year, while black tea and Pu'er tea, which undergo special processing, have longer shelf lives. The storage conditions are crucial. If not stored properly, tea can become damp, leading to increased moisture content and the growth of mold and bacteria. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the loss of nutrients and aroma. Additionally, exposure to odors can affect the quality of the tea. To ensure the quality and taste of tea, it should be stored in a dry,…

Why is Brewing Time So Important? The brewing time for green tea directly affects the taste and quality of the tea liquor. Too short a time may not fully release the aroma and flavor of the tea leaves, while too long can result in a bitter infusion. Different types of green tea require different brewing times, so understanding each type’s characteristics and optimal brewing time is key. (Image source: network, delete if infringing) Common Green Tea Brewing Times Different types of green tea have their own ideal brewing times. Here are some suggested brewing times for common types of green tea: Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea: 2-3 minutes. Longjing has many tender buds, and the brewing time should not be too long, as it can easily become bitter. Biluochun (Green Snail Spring) Tea: 1-2 minutes. Biluochun has delicate leaves, and a longer brewing time can spoil its unique floral and fruity aroma. Maojian (Fur Point) Tea: 2-3 minutes. Maojian requires slightly longer to release its rich aroma. Luan Guapian (Lu'an Melon Seed) Tea: 3-4 minutes. Luan Guapian has thicker leaves, requiring a relatively longer brewing time. Huangshan Maofeng (Yellow Mountain Fur Peak) Tea: 2-3 minutes. Huangshan Maofeng has soft and tender…