During this shopping season, an increasing number of individuals are turning their attention to healthy drinks, such as Chinese green tea. As the iTeaworld brand, we have specially selected five must-have Chinese green teas to help newcomers understand their unique qualities and find ideal tea options this Black Friday season.
1. Longjing Tea
History and Characteristics:
Longjing tea originates from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, and is one of the most famous green teas in China. Its history dates back to the Tang Dynasty, named after “Longjing,” meaning “Dragon Well.” Longjing tea is renowned for its unique flat shape and rich fragrance. The leaves retain their distinctive green color during the roasting process, and the brew is bright green and clear, offering a sweet and fresh taste with antioxidant and invigorating properties.
Flavor Profile:
Longjing tea features a refreshing bean aroma with a slightly sweet taste. The first sip reveals its unique fragrance and sweetness, with a nutty undertone in the finish.
Brewing Method:
For beginners, brew Longjing tea at a water temperature of 80-85°C, using 3 grams of tea for every 150 ml of water, and steep for about 30-60 seconds to avoid over-brewing, which may affect the flavor.
Suitable for:
Longjing tea is ideal for tea lovers who enjoy light and fresh flavors. For those who prefer delicate tastes, Longjing tea is undoubtedly one of the Best Loose Leaf Tea choices, perfect for afternoon tea or leisure time.
2. Biluochun
History and Characteristics:
Biluochun, a traditional famous tea, originates from the Taihu region of Jiangsu Province. With a long history dating back to the Ming Dynasty, it is a highly popular Chinese Green Tea.The tea leaves are curled like a spiral and have a vibrant green color, showcasing a unique aesthetic. Biluochun is known for its fresh aroma, featuring distinct fruit and floral notes, with a refreshing taste and a long-lasting aftertaste. Its production process is intricate, requiring multiple steps including fixing, rolling, and twisting to unveil its unique flavor.
Flavor Profile:
Biluochun has a fresh and vibrant taste, with strong floral and fruity aromas, providing a refreshing experience for consumers who enjoy fragrant green teas.
Brewing Method:
When brewing Biluochun, it is best to use water at 80-85°C to release its optimal fragrance, steeping for 30-60 seconds. Beginners can adjust the brewing method based on personal taste preferences.
Suitable for:
This tea is especially suitable for young people and those in search of fresh flavors, providing a refreshing drink experience during work breaks or social occasions.
3. Huangshan Maofeng
History and Characteristics:
Huangshan Maofeng comes from the Huangshan region of Anhui Province and is a renowned green tea. Its history can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty. Huangshan Maofeng benefits from its unique natural environment that suits tea tree growth, resulting in its exceptional quality. The tea leaves are tender and elegant, with a fresh green color and visible white hairs. It has a high, lasting aroma and a refreshing, sweet aftertaste. This tea has stringent production requirements, making it a sought-after high-quality Loose Leaf Tea.
Huangshan Maofeng offers a fresh taste with subtle fruity and floral notes, a rich tea soup, and a hint of sweetness, providing comfort and relaxation.
Brewing Method:
When brewing Huangshan Maofeng, it is recommended to use water at a temperature between 80-85°C. Add an appropriate amount of tea leaves and steep for 1-2 minutes for the best experience.
Suitable for:
Huangshan Maofeng is ideal for those pursuing high-quality tea with refined flavor and aroma, making it perfect for sharing during family meals or gatherings with friends.
4. Xinyang Maojian
History and Characteristics:
Xinyang Maojian originates from Xinyang City in Henan Province, and has a long history, embodying the charm of a local specialty. Known as the "National Drink," Xinyang Maojian is famous for its handmade production and rigorous selection process. The tea leaves are small and straight, with a vibrant green color and visible white hairs. The brew is clear and bright, making it suitable for tea lovers who enjoy rich flavors and aromas. Especially during winter, it can provide a warm and comfortable feeling.
Flavor Profile:
Xinyang Maojian features a clear and fragrant tea soup with a refreshing aftertaste, offering a unique chestnut aroma and a fresh green bean flavor with subtle sweetness, great for all tea enthusiasts.
Brewing Method:
To brew Xinyang Maojian, use boiling water at 85-90°C, with 2-3 grams of tea for every 150 ml of water, steeping for 1-2 minutes to showcase its distinctive flavor.
Suitable for:
Xinyang Maojian is particularly suitable for tea lovers who prefer stronger green tea flavors, making it great for beginners to try. It's also perfect as a tea gift for helping others appreciate the charm of Chinese tea.
5. Taiping Houkui
History and Characteristics:
Taiping Houkui is one of China’s four famous teas, originating from Taiping County in Anhui Province. This tea is distinguished by its large, flat leaves and unique flavor. The leaves are robust, green in color, and have clear veins.
Flavor Profile:
Taiping Houkui has an exceptionally smooth taste, starting with a fragrant floral aroma, gradually transitioning to a sweet flavor. The tea aroma lingers long, making each sip enjoyable. There is a unique combination of sweetness and a mild bitterness on entry, leaving a lasting impression.
Brewing Method:
For brewing Taiping Houkui, it is recommended to control the water temperature at 85°C as its large leaves require an extended steeping time of about 5 minutes. Each infusion can be between 2-3 minutes, suitable for beginners to experience varying flavors.
Suitable for:
Whether you are a novice or a seasoned tea drinker, Taiping Houkui is a delightful choice, especially when shared with friends or family, as its aroma adds warmth to gatherings.
On this Black Friday, amidst the long shopping list, consider adding Chinese green tea to your cart. Whether it’s the freshness of Longjing, the floral notes of Biluochun, the elegance of Huangshan Maofeng, the richness of Xinyang Maojian, or the smoothness of Taiping Houkui, these five must-have Chinese green teas will help you find warmth during the cold winter. With iTeaworld, let Chinese tea become a part of your life, enjoying the warm moments of health and deliciousness.
