Guide

Oolong Tea Flavor Chart

Guide

How to Truly Understand Oolong Tea? — Decoding the Flavor Profile of Oolong Tea

on Feb 05 2025
Oolong tea comes in many varieties, but the key factors that influence its flavor and aroma are: different oxidation levels, roasting degrees, tree ages, altitudes, seasons, and soil environments. To help you navigate the complex world of Oolong tea, we’ve created 6 different sample sets that highlight these factors. These sets are designed to help you discover the flavor rules of Oolong tea, making it easier to find the taste that suits your preferences. We hope these products will help more people make informed choices when buying Oolong tea.
Spring Festival tea

Guide

What Tea is Most Popular During the Spring Festival?

on Jan 04 2025
The origin of the Spring Festival can be traced back thousands of years, originally meant to celebrate the arrival of the lunar new year, symbolizing a new beginning and hope. During this festival, tea culture gradually developed and became an important ritual for family reunions. In ancient times, the Chinese often greeted friends and family with tea, expressing their blessings and warmth, a tradition that continues to this day. Tea plays a significant role during the Spring Festival, whether as a daily beverage or as a delicate gift. It is loved by many.     How to Choose Suitable Spring Festival Tea Gifts? Tea occupies an important position in gifts during the Spring Festival. Gifting high-quality tea is a gesture of goodwill, conveying wishes for health and prosperity. Chinese tea, especially the best loose leaf tea, symbolizes sophistication and thoughtfulness, making it a favored gift. Popular gift options include our New Year tea gift sets and Chinese green tea gift boxes, which feature delightful selections such as Huangshan Maofeng and Jasmine tea. Each tea is carefully selected, perfect for sharing with family and friends. When choosing suitable tea leaves during the Spring Festival, it can enhance the festive atmosphere and express your heartfelt sentiments. Here are a few tips for selection: Consider Taste Preferences: Different teas have varying flavors and aromas, so consider the taste preferences of your family and friends when choosing. Emphasize Tea Quality: Select the “Best Loose Leaf Tea” to ensure freshness and quality, which will provide the best drinking experience. Choose Diverse Tea Gift Sets: Like the “Chinese Green Tea Sampler,” which includes various tea types, making it suitable for different people and occasions.     What Teas Are Most Popular? Longjing Tea (Dragon Well)As a representative of Chinese green tea, Longjing tea is highly praised for its unique aroma and sweet taste.Its bright green color and clear brew, coupled with a rich fragrance, make it a favorite among tea enthusiasts. During the Spring Festival, Longjing tea not only serves as a staple beverage for family gatherings but also as an excellent choice for gifting friends. Its refreshing taste brings warmth and comfort in the cold winter, making it an indispensable tea during the Spring Festival. Jasmine Silver Needle (窨茉莉白毫)The Jasmine Silver Needle combines the refreshing fragrance of green tea with the enchanting aroma of jasmine flowers, delivering a delightful and lingering aftertaste. This tea is particularly suitable for enjoying during the Spring Festival, especially when savoring it with family and friends at gatherings. Its unique floral scent elevates the quality of the tea and adds a festive atmosphere. Jasmine flowers symbolize beauty and purity, reflecting the auspicious wishes for the New Year during the Spring Festival. Chinese Green Tea SamplerFor tea lovers who enjoy trying different varieties, the Chinese Green Tea Sampler is the best choice. This set includes a range of high-quality teas such as Longjing, Biluochun, Huangshan Maofeng, Enshi Jade Dew, Jasmine tea, and Old Tree Green Tea. Whether for personal enjoyment or as a gift, this sampler meets your needs and showcases the diverse flavors of the Spring Festival. Old Tree Green TeaMade from tender buds of ancient tea trees, Old Tree Green Tea features a clear brew and rich flavor. This tea is particularly popular during the Spring Festival, as it not only represents the richness of time but also symbolizes harvest and good fortune for the New Year. It is a popular choice in tea gift sets, making it a great gift option. 2025 New Year Tea Gift SetThis gift set includes ten unique aged teas crafted by masters. It features Wuyi Narcissus Oolong, Tieguanyin Oolong, aged Fenghuang Dancong, raw Pu'er, ripe Pu'er, double steamed Liubao tea, Shoumei white tea, Lapsang Souchong, Jasmine green tea, and 1980s brick tea. This set is perfect for gifting and celebrating the spirit of sharing. It represents not just a tea gift but also an invitation for you and your loved ones to create connections and joyful moments together. The eco-friendly packaging reflects respect for sustainability while its unique design embodies the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, conveying blessings and warmth.     The Meaning of Tea to Chinese People Tea, as an important part of Chinese culture, is not just a beverage but also a lifestyle and a spiritual symbol. During the Spring Festival, tea symbolizes reunion and harmony, representing beautiful wishes for the New Year. By sharing tea, people express their love and blessings for one another, which is at the heart of the tea culture during the Spring Festival. The ritual of tea drinking nurtures interpersonal relationships, creating lasting memories, especially during such an essential celebration.   Conclusion This Spring Festival, choosing a suitable tea leaves will not only add warmth and joy to your family gatherings but also serve as a beautiful gift to convey your heartfelt sentiments. iTeaworld's carefully selected “Chinese Green Tea” series and “Tea Gift Sets” will enhance your Spring Festival experience. Let us welcome the New Year in the aroma of tea and enjoy the beautiful moments of reunion. Visit iTeaworld now to select your favorite Spring Festival teas and embark on a wonderful tea-tasting journey!
Longjing Green Tea

Guide

The Essence of Longjing Green Tea: A Comprehensive Guide to China's Favorite Green Tea

on Dec 20 2024
Longjing tea has a history that goes way back, all the way to the Tang Dynasty in China. There was this famous tea connoisseur named Lu Yu, who wrote the world's first book all about tea called The Classic of Tea.  In it, he mentioned that tea was grown in the Tianzhu and Lingyin temples near Hangzhou. By the time of the Northern Song Dynasty, Longjing tea was already a prized tribute item. When the Ming Dynasty rolled around, Longjing tea started to make a name for itself, its reputation spreading far and wide. It began to leave the monasteries and became a drink for everyday folks. Emperor Qianlong, during his six southern tours, visited the Longjing tea region four times to watch the tea harvesting and processing, and he'd drink tea and write poems. During the Republic of China era, the famous Longjing tea became the cream of the crop among Chinese teas. The reason Longjing tea was able to become so famous and well-known is twofold: firstly, the quality of the tea is top-notch, and secondly, it's deeply rooted in history and culture. Main Production Areas of Longjing Tea Longjing tea is a super famous green tea from China, primarily grown in Hangzhou City and the surrounding areas in Zhejiang Province. Here's a breakdown of the main batches of Longjing tea: West Lake Production Area This is the heart of Longjing tea country, located in the West Lake District of Hangzhou City. It includes spots like the famous Lion Peak Mountain, Longjing Village, Yunqi, Huqiao, and Meijiawu. West Lake Longjing tea is known for its four amazing qualities: it's green in color, rich in aroma, sweet in taste, and beautiful in shape. It's like the gold standard for Longjing tea. Qiantang Production Area This area covers other parts of Hangzhou City besides the West Lake District, like Xiaoshan, Yuhang, Fuyang, and such. The Longjing tea from these places can also be called Qiantang Longjing or Hangzhou Longjing. Yuezhou Production Area This region spreads over parts of Shaoxing, Jinhua, and Taizhou, including areas like Keqiao, Yuecheng, Xinchang, Shengzhou, Zhuji in Shaoxing, and some parts of Pan'an, Dongyang, Tiantai, and other county-level cities. The Longjing tea from these areas is known as Yuezhou Longjing. Other Production Areas Besides the three main production areas, there are other places like Pan'an County and Dongyang City where they also grow Longjing tea. Varieties of Longjing Tea Longjing tea comes in a few different varieties that are known for their unique qualities: Group Variety (Quntui Zhong) This is the original Longjing tea variety and is considered to have the best tea quality. The Longjing tea from Lion Peak Mountain in the West Lake area, which is often talked about, is from this variety. Generally, the Group Variety is harvested a bit later than other varieties, around the Qingming Festival. This variety is only grown in the West Lake production area, and the planting area is very limited. It's a bit like the OG of Longjing teas. Longjing 43 Longjing 43 is a cloned variety that was developed by the Tea Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences from the Longjing group. It's a bush type with medium-sized leaves, semi-spreading plant posture, and dense branching. It's an extra early variety, known for its high yield and quality. It's perfect for making green teas like Longjing and Qiqiang, with a flat shape, smooth surface, tender green color, long-lasting rich aroma, and a sweet and mellow taste. Wuniuzao This variety is the fastest to mature, and it starts sprouting as soon as the Beginning of Spring arrives, and it can be harvested in early March. Since Wuniu Early looks similar to West Lake Longjing and has a high yield, some unscrupulous merchants use it to pass off as West Lake Longjing early in the spring tea market. Wuniu Early tea has a flat and smooth appearance, with a bright green color and a strong, fresh aroma. It's known for its sweet and mellow taste and bright, clear tea soup.     Grading of Longjing Tea Top-grade Longjing tea is usually made from tea leaves that have just started to unfurl from the bud, what we call "one bud and one leaf." For grades 1 to 3, the tea is picked a bit more open, so it's either "one bud and one leaf" or "one bud and two leaves." For grades 4 to 5, the tea leaves are a bit more grown, with a focus on "one bud and two leaves" and some tender tea leaves that are still folding, plus a small amount of "one bud and three leaves." Anything below grade 6, and you're looking at more mature leaves, usually "two or three leaves opposite each other." Harvesting Seasons The first flush of tea (that's the spring tea) has to be wrapped up before the beginning of summer, which only gives us a little over a month to harvest, and that's because we pick Longjing tea as soon as we see the bud. The second flush starts around the time of Lesser Fullness (a solar term) and ends a few days after Grain in Ear (another solar term). The third flush begins at the Summer Solstice and finishes up a few days before Great Heat. The fourth flush, which is also called the "little spring tea," starts about ten days before the Beginning of Autumn and ends at White Dew, when we close the tea garden for the season. Longjing Tea Spreading Requirements Once the fresh tea leaves arrive at the factory, they need to be sorted in five different ways before spreading: Different varieties of fresh leaves need to be kept separate. Leaves picked on a sunny day need to be separated from those picked on a rainy day. Leaves from mature trees (including those that have been pruned) need to be separated from leaves from older trees. Leaves from sunny slope tea plants need to be separated from leaves from shady slope tea plants. Leaves picked in the morning need to be separated from leaves picked in the afternoon. This is because different fresh leaves have varying bud and leaf sizes, thickness, color depth, stem thickness, and water content. For example, fresh leaves from older tea trees have thin stems and thin leaves, and they require a lower temperature when frying. If you mix them with fresh leaves from mature trees that have thick leaves, large buds, and thick stems, the older leaves might get burnt due to high temperature, while the mature leaves might turn red due to insufficient temperature. Also, leaves from sunny slope tea plants have a greenish-yellow color, while leaves from shady slope tea plants have a darker green color. Mixing them together when frying will result in a tea with a motley color. On top of these five separation principles, the fresh leaves also need to be piled by grade and spread separately. The thickness of the spread should not exceed 3.5cm for high-grade Longjing tea leaves. If the frying material supply is insufficient, it can be spread thinner. For medium-grade Longjing tea leaves, 7-10cm is appropriate; for low-grade Longjing tea leaves, it can be up to 24cm or even thicker. The spreading must reach a water loss rate of 10-15%. The spreading time depends on the weather, usually 8-24 hours; on cloudy and rainy days, it can be spread thinner and for a longer time; on sunny and dry days, it can be spread thicker and for a shorter time. During the spreading process, the fresh leaves should be gently turned over appropriately to allow the water to evaporate evenly. Generally, the leaves should be gently turned every 4-6 hours. Turning the leaves too roughly can damage the buds and leaves, causing red discoloration, which affects the quality of the finished tea. The Craft of Making West Lake Longjing Tea The craft of making West Lake Longjing tea is very particular, and it includes the following main steps: Harvesting:West Lake Longjing tea leaves are usually picked between Qingming and Guyu, when the leaves and buds are still tender. Pickers need to be gentle to avoid damaging the tea leaves. Killing Green:The picked tea leaves need to go through a killing green process to stop the enzymes inside the leaves from working and prevent further fermentation. The traditional method is to stir-fry the leaves in a pan at high temperature for a short time to keep the leaves fresh and green. Rolling:After killing green, the leaves are rolled to help them take on the tea's characteristic flat shape. Rollers need to pay attention to the strength and speed to ensure even pressure so the leaves form the unique shape of Longjing tea. Pan-firing: The rolled leaves are pan-fired to dry them out and help develop their aroma. The temperature and time need to be controlled so the leaves dry quickly at high heat and release their unique fragrance. Trimming:After pan-firing, the tea leaves are trimmed, which means sorting and grading them to ensure quality and appearance. Storage:The trimmed leaves are stored to let their aroma develop and stabilize. They need to be kept dry and away from light to maintain their freshness and quality. The whole pan-firing process is divided into three stages: raw pan, return to humidity, and finishing pan. The raw pan shapes the leaves flat in about 15 minutes, drying them to about 70-80% dry. The return to humidity involves spreading the leaves on a bamboo screen for about an hour to let them regain some moisture. The finishing pan dries the leaves further to less than 5% moisture and sets their shape, which takes about 20 minutes. Quality Verification Check the Anti-Counterfeit Label Genuine West Lake Longjing tea comes with an anti-counterfeit label issued by the Hangzhou West Lake Longjing Tea Management Association. Each label has a unique number that can be verified by scratching off the protective coating and entering the digits to find out the corresponding tea farmer or producing company. Tea Leaf Color High-quality West Lake Longjing tea is characterized by its flat, smooth, elegant, and neatly uniform appearance with a vibrant green color. If the tea looks loose and rough, feels light and feathery, shows visible veins, and has a dull yellowish hue, it's a sign of lower quality. Appearance Top-notch Longjing tea has a flat, smooth, elegant, and sharply pointed look with a tender green color, moist and clean appearance. Aroma West Lake Longjing tea has a rich fragrance with the distinctive scent of orchids and a hint of honey sweetness. Fake Longjing tea tends to have a much lighter and less distinct aroma, lacking the characteristic orchid scent. Tea Soup Color The tea soup should be tender green or yellow-green, bright, and clear. High-quality Longjing tea will not have a soup that is yellowish, dark, dull, or murky. Hand-crafted West Lake Longjing Tea It has a fresh, mellow, and sweet taste that integrates seamlessly with its aroma. The tea soup is clear, bright, and stands up well to multiple infusions. Machine-processed Longjing Tea It has a lighter taste with a shorter aftertaste. If the processing temperature is too low, the tea will have a grassy flavor. If it's too high, the taste will be less fresh, losing the characteristic fresh, mellow, and sweet qualities of Longjing tea, and it won't stand up as well to multiple infusions.     Brewing Tips Water Temperature You'll want to use water that's around 75 to 85℃. Never use boiling water at 100℃ because Longjing tea is an unfermented tea with very delicate leaves. If you pour boiling water on it, you'll damage the leaves and draw out a bitter taste that can ruin the flavor. How to Control the Water Temperature Of course, we're not going to use a thermometer to check. The best way is to pour the boiling water into a 'fair cup' first, and then pour it into the teapot to brew. This way, you can easily control the water temperature. Remember the High Pour, Low Pour Technique When you 'high pour,' you increase the surface area of the water column that comes into contact with the air, which cools the water more efficiently. Storage After Pouring After you've poured the tea and if you're not planning to brew again immediately, make sure to leave the teapot lid open, not closed. As for the amount of tea leaves, just enough to cover the bottom of the teapot is fine. Brewing Time The brewing time increases with each infusion.     Fresh longjing vs. Aged Longjing Tea As the saying goes, "Drink tea fresh, drink wine aged." Here are some tips to help you figure out if your Longjing tea is fresh or past its prime: Color Fresh Longjing tea has a vibrant, bright green color, and the tea liquid is yellow-green and bright. Aged tea, on the other hand, looks dull with a grayish-yellow-green hue, just not as perky and fresh-looking. If fresh tea is mixed with aged tea, the overall color of the dry leaves can look patchy. But if aged tea that's been refrigerated is mixed in, it can sometimes be hard to tell because its color is still green. Aroma Fresh tea has a high, rich aroma with notes of tenderness or chestnut flowers that lingers around. Aged tea's aroma is more subdued and might have a musty, stale smell. Taste Fresh tea tastes invigoratingly fresh with a sweet aftertaste and a rich mouthfeel. Aged tea's flavor becomes weak and watered down, lacking in depth and interest. Texture Fresh tea is generally dry to the touch, giving a crisp feel. If you rub it between your fingers, it makes a crisp, clear sound. Aged tea, because it's been around longer, is more prone to getting damp. It feels heavier and doesn't make that crisp sound when rubbed. How to Differentiate Spring Tea from Summer/Autumn Tea To tell if your Longjing tea is a spring tea or a summer/autumn one, here are some things to look for: Leaf Shape and Color Spring Longjing tea leaves are flat and smooth with sharp, slender tips. The buds are longer than the leaves and have a tender green color without fuzz on the surface. Lower grades will show a shift from tender green to dark green, and even blackish green, with larger leaves and a coarser texture. Infusion Color The infusion of spring Longjing tea is a bright tender green (or yellow). For summer and autumn teas, the infusion is more likely to be bright yellow, indicating a lower grade of tea. Aroma Spring teas have a fresh aroma, sometimes with a delicate chestnut scent. Summer and autumn teas will have a fresh but coarser aroma, and the overall quality is significantly inferior to that of spring teas of the same grade. Taste Spring Longjing tea has a refreshing or rich and mellow taste. The taste of summer and autumn teas tends to be strong, slightly astringent, and less fresh, with a yellowish leaf base. Leaf Base After brewing, check the leaf base. Spring tea leaves are tender green and relatively intact, while lower grades will show larger, more mature leaves with a color changing from tender yellow to green, and finally to yellow-brown. Picking Timeline Remember, the best Longjing tea is picked before the Qingming Festival (around early April), known as "Mingqian" tea, which is the sweetest and most delicate of the year. Later harvests, like those after the 'Grain Rain' period, produce lower grades of tea that are less fresh and less spring-like in character. Storage Tips for Longjing Tea Keep It Dry: Longjing tea should have a low moisture content, no higher than 6%. Make sure the tea producer really watches the water content in the finished tea. Low Humidity: The air in the storage environment should be on the dry side, ideally kept below 60% humidity. No Foul Odors: Don't let the tea come into contact with any smells. You know how sponges soak up scents – tea is like that too, but you don't want it soaking up the wrong ones. Out of Sunlight: Keep the tea away from direct sunlight. Light can affect the quality of the tea, especially if left in strong light for too long. It can destroy the chlorophyll, making the tea look dull and yellow, and it won't taste as good. Plus, if you leave it in the sun, it can get a weird, sun-baked flavor that's hard to drink. Handle With Care: Avoid squishing the tea. Crushing it can mess up its good looks. Chill It: For the best results, store Longjing tea in a cool place, with temperatures between 32°F to 50°F (0-10°C).Enjoy your journey into the world of Longjing tea, and elevate your tea-drinking experience with these insights!
The Differences in Chinese Tea by Seasons

Guide

The Differences in Chinese Tea by Seasons

on Dec 18 2024
Chinese tea is categorized into four types based on the picking seasons: spring tea, summer tea, autumn tea, and winter tea. Each season’s climate characteristics and growth environment significantly affect the tea's quality, flavor, and nutritional components. Below is an introduction to the teas of each season:   1. Spring Tea Picking Time: Mid-March to May Characteristics: Best Quality: Following winter dormancy, tea trees accumulate rich nutrients, making spring tea of the highest quality. Fresh Taste: Offers rich aroma, tender flavor, and a pronounced sweetness. Nutritional Abundance: High in theanine, amino acids, and vitamins. Tea Types: Popular varieties include green tea, white tea, and some oolong teas (like Tieguanyin, Wuyishan), yellow tea, and spring raw Pu-erh. Representatives: West Lake Longjing, Biluochun, Anji White Tea, Qingxiang Tieguanyin (spring tea), Bai Mudan.   2. Summer Tea Picking Time: June to August Characteristics: Rapid Growth: High temperatures accelerate the growth of tea trees, resulting in larger leaves. Milder Aroma: Compared to spring tea, summer tea has a lighter fragrance but a stronger, slightly bitter flavor. Tea Types: Prized for making black tea and some robust-flavored green teas, as well as ripe Pu-erh. Summer tea is also used to create jasmine tea bases. Representatives: Keemun Black Tea, Jinjunmei, Baihao Yinzhen (summer tea), ripe Pu-erh.   3. Autumn Tea Picking Time: September to October Characteristics: Elevated Aroma: Autumn tea tends to have a pronounced fragrance, though it might be slightly inferior in taste compared to spring tea. Mellow Flavor: Offers refreshing qualities with a rich aftertaste that lingers. Tea Types: Commonly includes oolong and black teas, particularly semi-fermented varieties, such as Tieguanyin and Wuyishan tea. Representatives: Tieguanyin (autumn tea), Dahongpao, Fenghuang Dancong.   4. Winter Tea Picking Time: November to the following January Characteristics: Low Yield: Cold temperatures slow down tea tree growth, resulting in a lower yield of tea leaves. Gentle Flavor: Winter tea offers a subtle aroma and smooth taste, with a slight sweetness and high freshness. Tea Types: Primarily found in southern oolong tea regions, especially known for Taiwan’s winter oolong. Representatives: Taiwan High Mountain Oolong, Dongding Oolong.     Differences in Green Tea: First Spring, Before Qingming, Before Guyu Green tea is primarily enjoyed in the spring, and it can be further categorized into First Spring Tea, Before Qingming Tea, and Before Guyu Tea based on the picking times.   1. First Spring Tea Concept: Refers to the year's first batch of tea, also known as "Early Spring Tea." Picking typically occurs from late March to early April. Characteristics: High Freshness: Tea trees accumulate nutrients during winter, resulting in tender and fresh leaves. Strong Aroma: Exhibits a rich, enduring fragrance and refreshing taste. Nutritious: High in theanine, amino acids, and other essential nutrients. Price: Due to low production and high quality, typically comes at a higher price.   2. Before Qingming Tea Concept: Specifically picked before the Qingming Festival (April 4th or 5th). Often part of the First Spring Tea. Characteristics: Top Quality: The cooler temperatures result in slower growth, producing delicate, plump buds that yield fresh flavor. Fresh Fragrance: Offers a refreshing aroma with a smooth and sweet taste. Scarcity: Limited production and labor-intensive harvesting result in higher prices. Collectible Value: Considered a superior green tea with potential collectible qualities.   3. Before Guyu Tea Concept: Tea collected before the Guyu Festival (April 19th or 20th), after Qingming. Characteristics: Balanced Flavor: Compared to Before Qingming Tea, this tea is more mature, with a rich taste even though its aroma might be less intense. Higher Yield: With a longer growth period, production is higher, leading to more affordable prices. Daily Drink: The quality remains high, suitable for those seeking both quality and value.     Seasonal Variations in Different Types of Tea Each type of tea — black, green, oolong, Pu-erh, and white — has unique characteristics across seasons.   Different Seasonal Black Tea Picking Seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn Seasonal Variations: Spring Black Tea: Highest quality with a rich, fresh flavor and floral or fruity notes. Summer Black Tea: Stronger taste but milder aroma, used for bold-flavored types like Jinjunmei. Autumn Black Tea: Higher fragrance and smoother flavor profile, slightly sweeter.   Different Seasonal Oolong Tea Picking Seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn Seasonal Variations: Spring Oolong: Premium quality with rich aroma and strong flavor. Summer Oolong: Less common, used for robust-flavored oolongs. Autumn Oolong: High aroma and rich flavor, known for varieties like Tieguanyin.   Different Seasonal Pu-erh Tea Picking Seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn (both raw and ripe). Seasonal Variations: Spring Raw Pu-erh: Tender leaves with fresh aroma and blossomy flavors. Summer Raw Pu-erh: Heavier taste with less aroma, often used for daily consumption. Autumn Raw Pu-erh: Sweet and smooth, good for aging. Ripe Pu-erh: Quality tends to be better in spring and autumn, with a smooth, mature flavor.   Different Seasonal Green Tea Picking Seasons: Spring, Summer Seasonal Variations: Spring Green Tea: Tender buds with rich flavor; prized with high prices. Summer Green Tea: Heavier and slightly bitter with robust leaves, often more affordable.   Different Seasonal White Tea Picking Seasons: Spring, Autumn Seasonal Variations: Spring White Tea: Best quality with tender leaves and rich aroma. Autumn White Tea: Mellow and fragrant, with good aging potential.     Conclusion and Recommendations   Tea Type Main Picking Seasons Seasonal Characteristics Black Tea Spring, Summer, Autumn Spring tea is rich in aroma, fresh and sweet; summer tea is strong in flavor, slightly weak in aroma; autumn tea is high in aroma, mellow and rounded. Oolong Tea Spring, Summer, Autumn  Spring tea is of high quality and rich in aroma; summer tea is strong in flavor; autumn tea is high in aroma and mellow in flavor. Pu-erh Tea Spring, Summer, Autumn Spring tea is fresh and refreshing, with obvious floral and fruity aroma; summer tea is slightly lighter in aroma and stronger in flavor; autumn tea is sweet and mellow, and ripe tea is stable in taste. Green Tea Spring, Summer  Spring tea buds and leaves are tender, with strong aroma and fresh taste; summer tea leaves are thick and strong, with heavy flavor and bitterness. White Tea Spring, Autumn Spring tea buds and leaves are tender, the aroma is quiet and the taste is sweet, with the freshness of spring; autumn tea has a deeper aroma and a mellow taste, with the mature flavor of autumn. Selection Recommendations:   For Fresh and Aromatic Flavor: Choose spring teas across all types, such as black, green, oolong, and raw Pu-erh. For Stronger Taste: Opt for summer black and oolong and white teas. For Rich and Mellow Flavor: Autumn teas, especially oolong and raw Pu-erh, are ideal. For Warming Experience: Ripe Pu-erh works great in autumn and winter seasons.   Explore the unique tastes of each season and find your perfect cup of tea!
2024 Christmas Tea Gift Selection

Guide

2024 Christmas Tea Gift Selection

on Dec 13 2024
As the bells of Christmas are about to toll, are you still struggling to find a unique gift? To welcome this warm holiday, iTeaworld has carefully crafted a product that not only allows you to savor the unique charm of Chinese tea culture but also conveys a heartfelt blessing. This gift is perfect for sharing with friends and family, letting them feel a touch of warmth and nostalgia during the festive season. iTeaworld 2024 Christmas Gift Sampler This year, our iTeaworld 2024 Christmas Gift Sampler is an excellent choice for gifting. This sampler box contains ten different natural fragrances, making each cup of tea full of surprises. From jasmine to osmanthus and honey orchid, every aroma showcases the unique flavors and diversity of tea tree varieties from the Fenghuang Dancong tea production center. This tea not only represents the best of Loose Leaf Tea but also embodies the essence of Chinese tea culture. The diverse content of this tea gift set includes the following products: Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Huang Zhi Fragrance): Elegant and fragrant, like a gentle breeze on a summer afternoon. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Orchid Fragrance): Subtle and noble, exuding the unique fragrance of orchids. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Honey Orchid Fragrance): A blend of orchid's freshness and honey's sweetness, rich in taste. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Magnolia Fragrance): Crisp and fragrant, as elegant as blooming magnolias in spring. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Ginger Flower Fragrance): Spicy and invigorating, bringing a unique tropical style. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Osmanthus Aroma): Richly fragrant, sweet but not cloying, leaving a lingering taste. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Cinnamon Fragrance): Spicy and warm, bringing a cozy feeling for winter. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Almond Fragrance): Unique and rich, with a subtle nutty aroma. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Night-scented Stock): Mysterious and enchanting, bringing tranquility and romance of the night. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea (Jasmine Fragrance): Fresh and elegant, a classic tea fragrance.     This combination of ten teas showcases the unique Chinese tea culture as well as diverse taste options, suitable for different drinkers. Besides, this gift set's eco-friendly packaging aligns with modern expectations of sustainability, conveying respect and love for nature. Fenghuang Dancong: The Essence of Chinese Tea Culture Fenghuang Dancong tea is a treasure of Oolong tea, harvested from the Fenghuang Mountain in Chaozhou, Guangdong. Its unique aromas and flavors stem from the distinctive geographical environment and exceptional craftsmanship. Each tea leaf encapsulates the hard work of tea farmers and their reverence for tea culture. The iTeaworld 2024 Christmas Tea Gift Box is a tribute to this exquisite craftsmanship and long-standing tradition. The highlight of this tea gift set lies in its unique combination, making it suitable for various tastes and drinking habits. It can serve as both a personal beverage and a shared tea drink during festive gatherings, adding a touch of warmth to the holiday atmosphere. The delightful aromas of each tea invigorate the spirit, awakening a sense of beauty in life. Health Benefits (Huang Zhi Fragrance): Helps relieve stress and improve sleep quality. The fragrance has a soothing effect that relaxes the nervous system. (Orchid Fragrance): Contains antioxidants that help delay aging. Orchid tea can also clear heat and detoxify, boosting immunity. (Honey Orchid Fragrance): Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, improves digestive function, and the sweet honey aroma helps soothe emotions. (Magnolia Fragrance): Assists in relieving coughs and asthma, with expectorant effects. Magnolia fragrance can also relax the mind and reduce anxiety. (Ginger Flower Fragrance): Warms the stomach and dispels cold, beneficial for stomach cold and symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. (Osmanthus Aroma): Improves digestion and enhances appetite. Osmanthus tea also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. (Cinnamon Fragrance): Has warming properties, improves blood circulation, particularly suitable for individuals with a cold body type. (Almond Fragrance): Helps moisturize lung dryness and can alleviate coughs and throat discomfort. (Night-scented Stock): Has calming and soothing effects, can help improve sleep quality, and has antioxidant benefits. (Jasmine Fragrance): Has antidepressant effects, improving mood. Jasmine tea also helps alleviate discomfort during menstruation. How to Pair During the Christmas season, these teas can be paired with traditional Christmas desserts or simple cookies to create a warmer festive atmosphere. For instance, pairing Honey Orchid Fragrance tea with gingerbread brings a delightful flavor clash, while Magnolia Fragrance tea complements nut-based snacks perfectly. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with family and friends, these teas are an elegant choice. Additionally, you can combine these teas with classic holiday dishes, such as roast turkey or creamy potatoes, adding a unique flavor to your festive feast and making your gathering even more memorable. Brewing Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea Brewing these ten different fragrant Fenghuang Dancong Oolong teas has its nuances. Here’s a detailed guide for brewing: Preparation Tools Tea Set: Traditional ceramic tea sets, such as Gaiwan, fairness cups, and tasting cups. Tea Leaves: Appropriate amount of Fenghuang Dancong Oolong tea. Hot Water: Purified or spring water, temperature controlled around 95°C. Tea Tray: For placing the tea leaves. Tea Spoon: For measuring tea. Tea Cloth: For wiping the tea set.     Notes: Each fragrance of Fenghuang Dancong Oolong tea has its unique flavors; when brewing, you can adjust based on personal preference and the characteristics of the tea leaves. Brewing tea is an art and a pleasure; continuously experimenting and adjusting can help find the brewing method that best suits your taste. iTeaworld: A Commitment to Nature iTeaworld adheres to sustainable development principles, dedicated to protecting ancient tea tree resources and using eco-friendly production methods. We believe that true quality tea can only be produced by respecting nature. Choosing iTeaworld means not just selecting a tea but embracing a lifestyle and a commitment to nature.     Let Tea Fragrance Accompany You Through a Warm Christmas By choosing iTeaworld's selected teas, you are not only giving a lovely gift but also conveying care and blessings. This Christmas, let our teas accompany you and your friends and family in celebrating a warm holiday! Let every cup of tea become a bond of communication among family and friends, creating countless beautiful memories. Join us in celebrating this precious connection between people, letting the fragrance of tea permeate every corner of the holiday!    
2024 Christmas Gift Sampler

Guide

Christmas Tea Selections: iTeaworld Holiday Special

on Dec 05 2024
Hello tea friends! As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to warm your heart and home with delightful teas. Christmas is the perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends, enjoy delicious meals, and celebrate together. What better way to enhance the festive spirit than to savor exquisite Chinese tea? At iTeaworld, we offer a wide selection of teas to complement your holiday dishes, satisfy your cravings, or even serve as thoughtful gifts. Let’s explore our Christmas tea recommendations! 1. Christmas Tea Recommendations When the holidays arrive, certain teas shine brighter than others. Here are five teas we recommend for the festive season:   iTeaworld 2024 Christmas Gift Sampler: Featuring Phoenix Dancong, this sampler showcases 10 unique aromas of authentic Chaozhou oolong tea, including Jasmine, Gardenia, Cinnamon, and Magnolia. It promises a sensory feast for your nose and taste buds.   Longjing (Dragon Well): This premium Chinese green tea is known for its flat, tender leaves and sweet, nutty flavor. It’s the perfect drink to refresh you between hearty meals.   Da Hong Pao: As one of China’s famous teas and a representative of oolong tea, Da Hong Pao is celebrated for its rich flavor and unique rocky aroma. Its warm tones and fragrance make it a lovely complement to the festive ambiance.   Yingde Black Tea: During Christmas, when we often indulge in rich foods and drinks, the tannic acid in Yingde black tea aids digestion and alleviates the burden of holiday feasting.   6 Types Of Chinese Tea Sampler: This Tea Discovery Set takes you on a journey through six classic types of Chinese tea: Oolong, Black, Green, White, Dark, and Yellow. It’s the perfect introduction for tea lovers and a thoughtful gift for those starting to explore tea. Enjoy the rich traditions in every sip!     2. What Tea Pairs Well with Christmas Dinner? Christmas dinner is a feast for the senses. Pair your favorite dishes with the right teas to elevate your dining experience.   Longjing (Dragon Well): With its refreshing taste and distinctive bean and chestnut aromas, Dragon Well green tea is ideal after a heavy meal. It cleanses the palate and balances the richness of roasted turkey or ham perfectly.   Da Hong Pao: The brewing process of Da Hong Pao oolong tea adds a ceremonial touch to family gatherings, making tea preparation a fun activity for friends and family. Its complex, rich flavor pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rolls.   Yingde Black Tea: Yingde black tea’s color matches the red theme of Christmas, enhancing the festive atmosphere. A steaming cup of black tea, accompanied by Christmas decorations, perfectly rounds off your feast. It pairs wonderfully with gingerbread cookies or spiced cakes, adding a warm finish to your celebrations.     3. What Gifts to Give at Christmas? Tea gift sets are undoubtedly one of the most heartfelt choices. They represent taste and health, allowing the recipient to feel warmth and care during the chilly winter months. Here are some selections from iTeaworld:   2024 Christmas Gift Sampler: Christmas is not just about festivities; it’s a culinary feast. iTeaworld has prepared the 2024 Christmas Gift Sampler featuring the Phoenix Dancong oolong tea in ten different flavors, making this holiday unique! This set explores the essence of Chinese Kung Fu tea culture and includes ten distinct natural aromas, such as Jasmine, Gardenia, and Honey Orchid, showcasing the diverse flavors from Phoenix Town, a renowned tea-producing region.   6 Types Of Chinese Tea Sampler: This collector's gift box features our most popular teas: [White Tea - White Peony Tea], [Green Tea - Biluochun Tea], [Yellow Tea - Junshan Silver Needle], [Black Tea - Yunnan Black Tea], [Oolong Tea - Fenghuang Dancong], [Dark Tea - Ripe Pu'er Tea]. It’s perfect for those new to loose leaf tea. Experience our selection of Chinese teas and enjoy moments of tranquility.     4. About iTeaworld iTeaworld: Tasting Tea Responsibly—A Commitment to Nature. Tea is a gift from nature that deserves our appreciation and protection. At iTeaworld, we believe in sustainability. We offer biodegradable packaging and are dedicated to protecting ancient tea trees. Understanding the history and culture behind each type of tea enhances your enjoyment. The history of Chinese tea dates back thousands of years and is closely linked to cultural customs and social practices. The meticulous selection, processing, and brewing of tea establish a connection between tea drinkers and the centuries-old traditions encapsulated in every cup.     5. Tea Preparation and Brewing Tips To fully experience the flavors of your chosen tea, using the correct brewing techniques is crucial. Use fresh filtered water to enhance the tea’s natural flavors. Choose Your Tea: Select the right tea according to your personal taste. Prepare the Tools: Gather a teapot, teacups, tea canister, scoop, timer, and strainer. Water Quality: Use fresh, clean water, preferably soft water. Avoid water with strong odors, such as heavily chlorinated tap water. Water Temperature Control: Green Tea: 70-85°C White Tea: 85-90°C Oolong Tea: 90-100°C Black Tea: 90-100°C Dark Tea: 95-100°C Yellow Tea: 80-90°C Tea Amount: Typically, use 2-3 grams of tea for every 150-200 milliliters of water, but you can adjust based on personal taste and tea type. Preheat the Utensils: Rinse the teapot and cups with hot water. Brewing Tea: Place the tea leaves in the strainer. Slowly pour hot water over the tea leaves, allowing them to soak. Let the tea steep for a few seconds to allow the leaves to unfurl. Timing: Green Tea: 30-60 seconds White Tea: 1-2 minutes Oolong Tea: 30-60 seconds Black Tea: 45-60 seconds Dark Tea: 45-60 seconds Yellow Tea: 30-60 seconds Pouring Tea: Pour the brewed tea into cups. Tasting: Slowly savor the flavors and aromas. Each type of tea has its unique flavors and characteristics, and by using the appropriate brewing methods, we can better experience the charm of tea. Tea is not only delicious but also beneficial for health. Loose leaf tea is known for its antioxidant properties, which can boost immunity and improve overall wellbeing. During the bustling holiday season, take a moment to brew a cup of tea, letting it relax your mind and offer a break from the festive excitement. This Christmas, don’t just rely on the usual eggnog or hot cocoa—embrace the warmth of Chinese tea! Whether you’re enjoying the fragrant notes of oolong or getting lost in the sweet taste of green tea, these holiday brews will surely enhance your festive experience. At iTeaworld, we offer a wide range of the best loose leaf teas along with thoughtful services to meet all your holiday needs.
2024 Black Friday Shopping Guide: 5 Must-Have Oolong Teas from China!!!

Guide

2024 Black Friday Shopping Guide: 5 Must-Have Oolong Teas from China!!!

on Nov 29 2024
Dear tea lovers! As the holiday season approaches and the cold weather sweeps in, are you searching for the best way to warm yourself up?Chinese tea has captured the attention of many this season, and you know what that means? It’s time to prepare for an exciting Black Friday shopping spree! At iTeaworld, we are launching our crazy Black Friday sale with discounts of 25%-30%, allowing you to stock up on your favorite loose leaf teas and explore new flavors without worrying about overspending. Why Buy Oolong Tea This Black Friday? Lowest Prices of the Year: Black Friday is a shopper’s paradise and the perfect time to build your tea collection. Comfort and Warmth: With temperatures dropping, a hot cup of Oolong tea is just what you need. Healthy Choice: Oolong tea is rich in antioxidants, making it an excellent companion for your healthy lifestyle and helping you recover from holiday indulgences. Perfect Gift: Oolong tea makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family, especially during this gifting season. Exclusive Offers Await You Here are the details of our Black Friday discounts: All Orders < $100: Enjoy 25% OFF! All Orders ≥ $100: Enjoy 30% OFF! Exciting Gifts To enhance your shopping experience, we also have some exclusive gifts for you: Spend $50: Receive an exclusive panda bookmark! It’s the perfect companion for your reading while sipping tea! Spend $100: Get a beautiful hand-painted panda teacup. Elegant and perfect for enjoying your tea! Oolong Tea Collection: The Ideal Choice for This Winter! 1. Da Hong Pao Original Price: $29.90 Black Friday Special Price: $22.45 Tea Description:Known as the "King of Tea," Da Hong Pao comes from China’s Wuyi Mountains and is renowned for its rich flavor and deep amber color.Tasting Notes: It has a rich taste with a harmonious sweetness, making it perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying alone. 2. Tie Guan Yin Original Price: $14.99 Black Friday Special Price: $11.24 Tea Description:Tie Guan Yin is beloved for its complex floral aroma and smooth taste.Tasting Notes: It offers a moderate floral fragrance with a rich, non-greasy flavor, ideal for sipping anytime, especially in the afternoon for a pick-me-up. 3. Min Nan Shui Xian Original Price: $19.99 Black Friday Special Price: $14.99 Tea Description:This tea features a rich and sweet taste combined with deep floral aromas that captivate drinkers.Tasting Notes: A delightful option for those who enjoy lighter flavors, making it suitable for all types of tea enthusiasts. 4. Fenghuang Dan Cong Original Price: $45.99 Black Friday Special Price: $34.49 Tea Description:Known for its complex and vibrant flavors, Fenghuang Dan Cong comes from Guangdong and offers a variety of aromatic choices.Tasting Notes: With each sip, enjoy the interplay of fruity and floral notes, making it an exciting tea experience. 5. Chinese Oolong Tea Gift Set Original Price: $19.99 Black Friday Special Price: $14.99 Tea Description:This sampler pack offers an exciting experience with multiple Oolong teas, including Da Hong Pao, Tie Guan Yin, Min Nan Shui Xian, and Fenghuang Dan Cong.Perfect Combination: Ideal for novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike, explore different flavors to find your favorite tea. Maximize Your Black Friday Savings Want to save big on Black Friday? Here are some smart combinations that let you enjoy even greater discounts: 1. “Tea Lover’s Trio” Purchase: Chinese Oolong Tea Gift Set (Original Price: $19.99) Da Hong Pao (Original Price: $29.90) Tie Guan Yin (Original Price: $14.99) Total Price: $64.88 Enjoy 25% OFF, bringing your total down to only $48.66! Special Gift: Receive the exclusive panda bookmark! 2. “Perfect Gift Set” Purchase: Fenghuang Dan Cong (Original Price: $45.99) Min Nan Shui Xian (Original Price: $19.99) Chinese Oolong Tea Gift Set (Original Price: $19.99) Total Price: $85.97 Enjoy 25% OFF, and your final total will be $64.48! Special Gift: Receive the exclusive panda bookmark! 3. “Ultimate Oolong Experience” Purchase: Da Hong Pao (Original Price: $29.90) Tie Guan Yin (Original Price: $14.99) Min Nan Shui Xian (Original Price: $19.99) Fenghuang Dan Cong (Original Price: $45.99) Total Price: $110.87 Enjoy 30% OFF, and your total comes to just $77.61! Extra Gift: Receive the beautiful hand-painted panda teacup! Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do I know which Oolong tea to choose?A: Start with our Oolong tea sampler! It includes a variety of flavors to help you discover your favorites. Q: Are these Oolong teas suitable for beginners?A: Absolutely! Many of our selected Oolong teas have mild flavors, making them ideal for newcomers. Q: Can I give these teas as gifts?A: Of course! Our tea gift sets are especially thoughtful gifts during the holiday season. Now that you have all this information, are you ready to delve into the enchanting world of Chinese tea this Black Friday?With incredible discounts and tempting flavors, you're not just buying tea; you're acquiring an experience. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting cup by yourself or gifting tea to friends, let this holiday season be special with iTeaworld.Check out iTeaworld.com to discover all your incredible deals!Happy shopping and enjoy your tea!
Thanksgiving

Guide

Thanksgiving Feast Essentials: iTeaworld's Selected Tea Pairing Guide

on Nov 27 2024
Thanksgiving is not only a time for family reunions and sharing a sumptuous meal, but also a wonderful opportunity to savor quality tea and express gratitude. At iTeaworld, we have carefully selected a variety of teas suitable for Thanksgiving, providing pairing suggestions and gift recommendations to make your holiday warmer and more special. The selected teas release unique aromas that enhance the festive atmosphere. What Tea is Suitable for Thanksgiving? The Thanksgiving table is usually filled with a bounty of dishes, from roast turkey to pumpkin pie. Therefore, choosing a tea that can balance the richness and promote digestion is crucial. We recommend selecting teas that are refreshing and have a lingering sweetness, such as specific varieties of Chinese Green Tea or heavily fermented Oolong teas. These teas effectively clear greasiness and aid in digestion, allowing you to enjoy your meal while feeling comfortable. When selecting appropriate teas for Thanksgiving, it's important to consider not only flavor but also the health benefits and cultural significance of the tea. Here are some great choices: Premium Bi Luo Chun: Bi Luo Chun is rich in antioxidants and aids digestion, making it perfect for after a big meal.Its gentle fruity aroma alleviates the feeling of greasiness and enhances your post-meal mood. Its unique picking process and vibrant spring quality complement the warm atmosphere of Thanksgiving, highlighting the festive spirit of gratitude. Da Hong Pao: In the Thanksgiving ambiance, the aroma of Da Hong Pao intertwines with the roasted scent of turkey, creating a unique flavor experience. Its rich taste pairs beautifully with festive dishes, leaving a lasting impression. Additionally, the health benefits of Da Hong Pao, such as promoting metabolism and boosting immunity, are essential warm gestures of care during the holiday. Sharing this tea fragrance also conveys gratitude for life and blessings for friends and family Premium Long Jing: Our early spring Long Jing is selected from high-quality tea gardens, and its fresh and crisp taste can neutralize the oiliness of turkey, enhancing the overall dining experience. Its delicate orchid fragrance contrasts sharply with the rich flavors of festive dishes, providing a unique tasting experience. Meanwhile, the amino acids and vitamins in Long Jing help relax the body and mind, fostering a joyful gathering atmosphere among friends and relatives. At this moment of gratitude, a cup of Premium Long Jing is not only a treat for the palate but a tribute to a healthy lifestyle. What Tea Pairs Well with Thanksgiving Dinner? Thanksgiving dinners are typically lavish, featuring turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and various delicacies. Here are some tea pairing suggestions: Da Hong Pao with Turkey: The rich black tea can balance the oiliness of the turkey, providing a unique taste experience, while its robust flavor enhances the festive atmosphere. Its distinctive rock essence complements the deliciousness of turkey, making the holiday feast even more memorable. Long Jing with Vegetable Dishes: The refreshing green tea pairs well with green vegetables, being both healthy and flavorful. The fragrant taste of Long Jing eliminates the bitterness of the vegetables, making dishes taste even better while also promoting digestion, allowing everyone to feel joyful while enjoying the feast. Yunnan Black Tea with Desserts: The sweet Oolong tea pairs perfectly with desserts like pumpkin pie, concluding the meal exquisitely. Its rich honey aroma can neutralize the sweetness of the desserts, creating a silky mouthfeel. Moreover, the various trace elements in Oolong tea help balance post-meal blood sugar, enabling people to enjoy sweetness while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. What Gifts Are Suitable for Thanksgiving? Tea gifts not only express your feelings but also allow the recipient to enjoy the beauty of tea. Here are some recommended tea gifts for Thanksgiving: Classic Chinese Tea Sampler: This Tea Gift Set features a selection of premium Oolong and black teas, beautifully packaged like a treasure containing culture, making it an ideal Thanksgiving gift that conveys warmth. Every time you brew the tea, it serves as a reminder of this heartfelt gesture. Chinese Dark Tea Sampler: This carefully selected black tea sampler not only has a unique aged flavor but also provides health benefits, making it a suitable gift for Thanksgiving to express deep gratitude. New Chinese Oolong Tea Sampler: This sampler includes various flavors designed to provide a range of options for tea connoisseurs, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends during a warm Thanksgiving celebration. Quick-Brew Tea Set: Accompanied by high-quality tea utensils, this set is suitable for quick tea enjoyment in a busy lifestyle, integrating tea culture into daily life and adding an elegant touch. This tea set allows you to enjoy an elegant tea experience even in a hectic life, making every cup a delightful part of your day. Tea Pet: A small tea pet can add fun to the tea table with its cute appearance, and its cultural significance can make every brewing session a ritual of enjoyment and companionship. The History and Culture of Tea Chinese tea has a long history and profound cultural heritage. From the ancient Tea Horse Road to modern tea art performances, tea is not just a beverage but a way of life and a cultural symbol. Understanding the history and culture of tea allows you to experience its charm more deeply during Thanksgiving. On such a holiday, appreciating tea becomes a ritual, an art that perfectly integrates tradition with modernity, deliciousness with health. The story of tea continues to be written with every brewing. On the Thanksgiving table, the aroma of tea wafts like warm blessings, deepening the emotional connections among friends and family. China is home to numerous famous tea production areas, such as West Lake Long Jing, Wuyi Da Hong Pao, and Anxi Tie Guan Yin. The unique varieties of tea trees from different regions impart distinct flavors and aromas to the tea. Choosing Chinese teas from various regions can enrich your tea-drinking experience.     Health Benefits Tea is rich in various nutrients that promote health. Chinese Green Tea is high in antioxidants that help with anti-aging; Oolong tea aids digestion; and black tea refreshes the mind. Drinking tea in moderation not only enhances your Thanksgiving experience but is also beneficial for both physical and mental health. This Thanksgiving, let iTeaworld's high-quality loose leaf teas add warmth and beauty to your holiday. Whether for personal enjoyment or as a gift, our tea selections will be your best choice. Thanksgiving is a time for expressing gratitude and sharing; choosing the right tea not only enriches your holiday experience but also conveys this sentiment to friends and family.It brings a sense of harmony and connection, Visit iTeaworld to explore more high-quality Chinese teas that will make this Thanksgiving more special and memorable.  
 Black Friday Shopping Guide

Guide

2024 Black Friday Shopping Guide: Best Value Chinese Tea!!!

on Nov 23 2024
Dear Tea Enthusiasts! As the holiday season approaches and the cold weather sets in, I bet you’re on the lookout for the best way to warm yourself up. Chinese tea is catching the attention of many this season, and you know what that means? It’s time for an exciting Black Friday shopping spree! At iTeaworld, we’re rolling out our Crazy Black Friday promotion, offering a fantastic 25%-30% OFF, so you can stock up on your favorite loose leaf tea and explore new flavors without worrying about breaking the bank. Why Buy Tea This Black Friday? Best Savings of the Year: This is the most cost-effective shopping season. Comfort & Warmth: As temperatures drop, a hot cup of tea is exactly what you need. Healthy Choice: Tea is full of antioxidants and pairs perfectly with your healthy lifestyle. Perfect Gift: Tea makes an excellent, thoughtful gift for friends and family. Exclusive Discounts Await You Here’s the breakdown of our discounts: All orders < $100: Enjoy 25% OFF!! All orders ≥ $100: Enjoy 30% OFF!! Exciting Freebies To enhance your shopping experience, we’ve prepared some exclusive goodies for you: Spend $50: Get an Exclusive Panda Bookmark. It’s the perfect companion for your tea-sipping reading sessions! Spend $100: Receive a Beautiful Hand-Painted Teacup. Elegant and perfect for enjoying your brew.     Daily Deals Plus, don’t forget to check out our daily deals. You can snag up to 50% OFF on select tea products. Make sure to check back regularly! Discounts apply automatically at checkout November 17: Chinese Black Tea Sampler - Originally $19.99, now just $9.99!As of December 12 November 18: Wild Green Tea - Originally $31.43, now just $18.86!As of December 12 November 19: Wild Oolong Tea - Originally $35.88, now just $21.53!As of December 12 November 20: Wild Black Tea - Originally $30.23, now just $21.16!As of December 12 November 21: 3-Scent Jasmine Biluochun - Originally $15.90, now just $11.13!As of December 12 November 22: Chinese Cold Brew Tea Sampler - Originally $29.99, now just $17.99!As of December 12 November 23: Wild Souchong Chinese Black Tea- Originally $29.99, now just $19.49!  As of December 12 November 24: Old Tree Green Tea - Originally $14.99, now just $11.24!As of December 12 November 25: Yunnan Black Tea - Originally $9.99, now just $6.49!As of December 12 November 26: Guangxi Old Tree Black Tea - Originally $39.99, now just $29.99!As of December 12 November 27: Souchong Black Tea - Originally $29.99, now just $17.99!  As of December 12 November 28: Yingde Black Tea - Originally $24.99, now just $14.99!As of December 12 Pro Tip: Strategic ordering = Maximum savings Classic Collection Set: The Ultimate Starter If you’re unsure where to start, our value champion, the Classic Chinese Tea Sampler, is available for $19.99, now just $14.99. This set includes all the teas from our Chinese Black Tea Sampler  and Chinese Oolong Tea Sampler. It’s a fantastic entry option for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Chinese tea. Maximize Your Black Friday Savings Here’s how to truly maximize your savings: Discounts apply automatically at checkout 1. “Tea Lover’s Trio” Pick up: Classic Chinese Tea Sampler($19.99) Chinese Oolong Tea Sampler($19.99) Chinese Black Tea Sampler($19.99) Total Cost: $59.97Enjoy 25% OFF, bringing your total down to $44.98. What a steal! Additionally, you’ll receive the Panda Bookmark! 2. “Ultimate Tea Experience” Buy: Longjing Tea ($55.90) 9-Scent Jasmine Green Tea($39.99) Chinese Oolong Tea Sampler($19.99) Total Cost: $115.88You’ll get 30% OFF, making it just $81.12. Plus, you’ll receive the hand-painted teacup! 3. “Perfect Gift Set” Choose: Huangshan Maofeng ($25.45) Xinyang Maojian ($23.90) Chinese Black Tea Sampler($19.99) Total Cost: $69.34Enjoy 25% OFF, totaling $67.00. You’ll score another adorable Panda Bookmark! If you have some favorite tea varieties, take a look at our specific tea promotions.     Green Tea Picks: Refreshing Choices Looking for something fresh? Our green teas are sure to please. Discounts apply automatically at checkout 1. Longjing (Premium) Original $55.90, now just $41.925. This iconic Chinese green tea is known for its flat leaves and nutty aroma. Tasting Notes: Fresh, smooth, with a hint of sweetness. Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants, it helps boost metabolism. 2. 9-Scent Jasmine Green Tea Original $39.99, now just $29.99. Ah, the floral wonder! This tea combines delicate white tea with jasmine. Tasting Notes: Light, fragrant, and sweet. Perfect Time: Ideal for relaxing after a long day. 3. Huangshan Maofeng Original $25.45, now just $19.08. Looking for something elegant? Tasting Notes: Delicate floral and grassy notes with a smooth finish. Occasion: Great for afternoon tea or casual gatherings. 4. Xinyang Maojian Original $23.90, now just $13.44. This tea has character! Bold flavor and vibrant green color. Tasting Notes: Rich, refreshing, and invigorating. Perfect Time: A fantastic midday pick-me-up. 5. Taiping Houkui Original $36.90, now just $27.67. Big leaves = bold flavor! Tasting Notes: Sweet, smooth, and aromatic. Enjoy It: Perfect for treating yourself.     Oolong Tea: Flavor Explosion If you want to venture out, give our oolong teas a try! Discounts apply automatically at checkout Chinese Oolong Tea Sampler Original $19.99, now just $14.99. Sample multiple flavors! This sampler includes: Da Hong Pao: Rich and complex with a roasted flavor. Original Price $29.90, now just $22.425. Tieguanyin: Light floral notes—it's a crowd favorite! Original Price $14.99, now just $11.24. Min Nan Shui Xian: Smooth and slightly sweet. Original Price $19.99, now just $14.99. Fenghuang Dancong Oolong tea: A wild taste adventure! Original Price $45.99, now just $34.49.     Black Tea: Bold and Beautiful Craving something bolder? Our red teas are your best bet! Discounts apply automatically at checkout Chinese Black Tea Sampler Original $19.99, now just $14.99. This combo takes you on a flavor journey: Souchong Black Tea : Smoky and rich for nighttime. Original Price $29.99, now just $22.49. Yunnan Black Tea: Malty and easy-drinking. Original Price $9.99, now just $7.49. Yingde Black Tea: Rich and balanced, perfect with snacks. Original Price $24.99, now just $18.74. Wild Souchong Black Tea: For fans of smoky flavors! Original Price $29.99, now just $22.49.     Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do I know which tea to choose?A: Start with our sample packs! They offer a great variety that lets you discover your favorite flavors. Q: Are these teas suitable for beginners?A: Absolutely! Many of our featured teas have mild flavors, making them perfect for newcomers. Q: Can I gift these teas?A: Yes! Our tea gift sets make thoughtful gifts, especially during the holiday season. Now that you have all this information, are you ready to dive into the captivating world of Chinese tea this Black Friday? With amazing discounts and enticing flavors, you’re not just buying tea; you’re getting an experience. Whether it’s enjoying a cozy cup yourself or gifting a thoughtful selection to friends, let this holiday season be special with iTeaworld. Check out iTeaworld.com for all the incredible deals! Happy shopping and happy sipping!  
green tea leaves

Guide

What's the difference between green tea leaves of various grades?

on Nov 13 2024
There are plenty of factors that can affect the taste and flavor of green tea, including differences in manufacturing processes, tea plant varieties, harvesting levels, and the growing environment of the tea plants. For instance, steamed green teas, like Gyokuro, have a distinct seaweed flavor; pan-fired green teas, like Longjing, have a notable roasted nut aroma; in terms of tea plant varieties, Longjing made from the 'Wuniu Zao' cultivar lacks the typical bean fragrance because of the specific variety used; looking at the harvesting levels, Longjing with one bud and one leaf has a more refreshing taste and a more elegant aroma.   On the other hand, Chinese Tea, specifically Longjing with one bud and three leaves, has a less distinct aroma and isn’t as refreshing. Today, we’re using two renowned varieties of Chinese Tea, Longjing and Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea, to illustrate the differences between green teas of various harvesting levels.     Longjing Green Tea (Dragon Well Tea): Longjing Green Tea, a prized selection within any tea gift set, hails from the West Lake region in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. With a history stretching back to the Tang Dynasty, it has been celebrated in Chinese literature and is renowned for its unique flat leaf shape, smooth texture, and vibrant green color. The tea leaves boast a distinct “bean flower” aroma and a fresh, sweet taste that lingers on the palate, making it a cherished inclusion in any tea gift set. The best Longjing Green Tea, such as the “Pre-Qingming” or “Daughter’s Red,” is meticulously picked before the Qingming Festival, a time when the leaves are at their most tender and flavorful, often featured in premium tea gift sets.   Longjing Green Tea, often regarded as the best green tea to drink, is closely associated with the beauty of West Lake and is considered a liquid reflection of the region’s natural splendor. It is said that even the Qianlong Emperor, during his southern tours, praised this particular tea, which he deemed the best green tea to drink, and designated a specific plot of tea plants as “Imperial Tea” due to its exceptional quality.Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea (Yellow Mountain Fuzzy Tip):Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea is a delicate green tea that originates from the Yellow Mountains in Anhui Province. This tea is known for its curled leaves covered in white down, resembling a sparrow's tongue, with a hue that is greenish-yellow and a fragrance reminiscent of orchids. The tea has a sweet, mellow taste and a lingering aftertaste that is both refreshing and satisfying.   Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea is meticulously hand-crafted from the tender shoots of  selected tea varieties grown in the misty mountainsides, which are picked during the clear and grain rains around the Qingming and Guyu seasons. The tea's name, "Maofeng," which translates to "fuzzy peak," refers to the white tips that adorn the tea leaves, symbolizing the peak of the Yellow Mountains where it is sourced.   Longjing and Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea are both famous green teas from China, each with their own unique flavor profiles. These flavors are influenced by a variety of factors, including the tea plant variety, growing conditions, harvesting levels, and processing techniques. Here's a look at the flavor differences between different leaf grades of Longjing and Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea.   Longjing Green Tea Flavor Variations by Leaf Grade:-One bud and one leaf Longjing Green Tea: This is a higher grade of Longjing Green Tea. The leaves are tender, with plump and straight buds, offering a fresh and invigorating taste and a clear, high aroma. Because the leaves are more delicate, they may not be as enduring when brewed, but the taste and aroma are exceptional.-One bud and two leaves Longjing Green Tea: Compared to the one bud and one leaf, this grade of Longjing Green Tea has a higher endurance for brewing and a richer taste. Its aroma remains fresh, but you might notice a bit more depth in the flavor profile.-One bud and three leaves Longjing Green Tea: This type of Longjing Green Tea has more mature leaves, resulting in a stronger flavor and better endurance for brewing. The aroma might not be as uplifting as the younger leaves, but it still maintains the unique, fresh fragrance of Longjing Green Tea, with a fuller mouthfeel.   Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea Green Tea Flavor Variations by Leaf Grade:-One bud and one leaf Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea: This is a premium grade of Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea tea. The leaves are delicate, with a green and moist appearance, featuring golden yellow fish leaves, commonly called "golden slices". The tea soup is clear and bright, with a fresh taste and an elegant aroma, embodying the classic style of Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea.-One bud and two leaves Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea: This grade of Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea offers a richer taste and improved endurance for brewing. Its aroma might not be as delicate as the one bud and one leaf grade, but it still retains the fresh fragrance characteristic of Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea, with a more concentrated flavor.-One bud and three leaves Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea: With more mature leaves, this grade of Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea has a richer flavor and better endurance for brewing. The aroma might be more subdued compared to the younger leaves, but it still preserves the fresh fragrance of Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea, with a smoother mouthfeel. In summary, different leaf grades of Longjing Green Tea and Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea, both exquisite examples of green tea Chinese, each have their unique flavor profiles. Younger leaf grades of green tea Chinese typically possess a higher aroma and a more refreshing taste, while more mature leaf grades of green tea Chinese offer a richer flavor and better brewing endurance. These differences in green tea Chinese are not only influenced by the leaf grade but are also closely related to the tea plant variety, growing environment, and processing techniques.     Summary of Green Tea Grades:One bud and one leaf green tea:Quality: It's often seen as the cream of the crop because the buds are super tender and packed with goodies.Taste: It's super fresh and sweet, with a delicate flavor profile.Aroma: The scent is elegant and long-lasting, often with a refreshing hint of greenness or a bean-like aroma.Brew durability: It's on the lower side because the leaves are so tender and don't stand up well to long infusions. One bud and two leaves green tea:Quality: It's high-quality, striking a balance between the tenderness of the bud and the maturity of the leaves.Taste: The flavor is rich and fresh, with a more complex and robust mouthfeel compared to one bud and one leaf.Aroma: The aroma is still fresh but a bit more intense than the one bud and one leaf variety.Brew durability: It fares better than the one bud and one leaf green tea, standing up to multiple infusions. One bud and three leaves green tea:Quality: It's more mature in quality, with a bolder flavor.Taste: The taste is strong, and it has the best brew durability, but it might not be as refreshing as the one bud and one leaf or one bud and two leaves green teas.Aroma: The aroma could be more subdued, with a richer layering as the leaves mature.Brew durability: It's the best, thanks to a higher content of polyphenols and caffeine, making it a favorite for tea lovers who prefer a strong flavor. Harvest Time:One bud and one leaf green teas are usually picked early in spring when the tea plants are nutrient-rich, resulting in top-quality leaves. One bud and two leaves, and one bud and three leaves green teas are harvested mid-to-late spring. Appearance:One bud and one leaf green teas have the most uniform appearance with plump buds and an aesthetically pleasing shape. As the number of leaves increases in one bud and two leaves, and one bud and three leaves green teas, the appearance becomes slightly more robust. Processing Techniques:Different grades of green tea might be processed differently to highlight their characteristics. For example, one bud and one leaf green teas might require more delicate killing green and drying techniques. Market Positioning:One bud and one leaf green teas are typically positioned in the high-end market, while one bud and two leaves, and one bud and three leaves green teas cater more to everyday drinking needs.In a nutshell, one bud and one leaf green teas are loved by tea enthusiasts for their tenderness and high quality. One bud and two leaves green teas strike a good balance between quality and price. One bud and three leaves green teas are perfect for those who prefer a bold flavor and high brew durability.   If you're curious about the different grades of Longjing and Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea, check out 6 Flavors Superior Green Tea Leaf Grade Collection .Includes Longjing And Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea 87G For Morning,that's all about exploring how the leaf grade of green tea affects its flavor, aroma, and the overall tea-drinking experience. This series features two famous Chinese green teas—Longjing and Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea—both made from traditional renowned tea plant varieties. The only difference is the leaf grade. You'll get to taste three different grades:One bud and one leafOne bud and two leavesOne bud and three leaves Each tea is hand-picked and processed by the same skilled tea master to ensure consistency in craftsmanship. By sampling these subtle variations in leaf grade, you'll gain a deeper understanding of green tea and find the grade that best suits your personal taste.   What would be the best water temperature for brewing green tea of different grades? When brewing green tea of different grades, there are indeed different suggestions for water temperature, which helps bring out the best flavor of the tea. Here are some basic guidelines:One bud and one leaf green tea: This high-quality green tea is very delicate, so it's recommended to use a slightly lower water temperature to brew it. This prevents the tea from becoming bitter due to high temperatures. The ideal water temperature is around 70°C to 75°C.One bud and two leaves green tea: Compared to the one bud and one leaf, this green tea has a higher tolerance for brewing and a richer taste. Its aroma is still fresh, so a slightly higher water temperature is suggested, around 75°C to 80°C, to fully extract the tea's flavor.One bud and three leaves green tea: This green tea has more mature leaves, a stronger flavor, and better brewing tolerance. Its aroma might not be as uplifting as the younger leaves, but it still maintains the unique fresh scent of green tea. For these more mature leaves, a slightly higher water temperature can be used, around 85°C, to bring out a richer taste.In general, tender leaf grades of green tea are usually recommended to be brewed with a lower water temperature (70°C to 75°C), while mature leaf grades can handle a slightly higher temperature (up to 80°C-85°C).  These differences are not only influenced by the leaf grade but also closely related to the tea plant variety, growing environment, and processing techniques. Using an electric kettle with temperature control can easily help you manage the water temperature, ensuring that each brew reaches the ideal temperature.     The caffeine levels in green tea can vary depending on the leaf grade. The amount of caffeine in the best green tea is influenced by a bunch of factors, like the type of tea plant, how it’s grown, when it’s picked, which parts are picked, and how it’s processed. Generally, the younger the leaves in the best green tea, the more caffeine they have. That’s because the tea plant pumps up the caffeine in the tender buds to keep pests away.When it comes to green teas made with one bud and one leaf versus one bud and three leaves, the caffeine difference is mostly about the maturity of the leaves. Green tea with one bud and one leaf is usually made from the tea plant's tender buds and the first leaves that unfold. These leaves have a higher caffeine content because the buds and young leaves need the most protection, so the plant makes more caffeine to ward off bugs.On the other hand, green tea with one bud and three leaves has more mature leaves. These mature leaves have less caffeine because as the leaves get older, they're better at fighting off pests, so they don't need as much caffeine.Specifically, when you brew green tea with one bud and one leaf, more caffeine dissolves into the water. This means it can give you a better boost, but it might also be a bit harder on your stomach because of the higher caffeine content. Green tea with one bud and three leaves has more mature leaves, so it has less caffeine and might be easier on your stomach, but it might not give you as big of an energy boost as the one bud and one leaf variety.In summary, green tea with one bud and one leaf usually has more caffeine, while green tea with one bud and three leaves has less. This is mainly due to the difference in the maturity of the leaves.
Autumn Oolong Delights: Perfect Tea Pairings for Halloween

Guide

Autumn Oolong Delights: Perfect Tea Pairings for Halloween

on Oct 20 2024
As Halloween approaches, the essence of autumn becomes more prominent, with the sweet scent of pumpkins and the warm hues of maple leaves filling the air. In this magical and mysterious season, alongside candy and costumes, a warm cup of autumn-inspired oolong tea is the perfect companion. With its unique fragrance and rich flavor, oolong tea adds a touch of elegance and tranquility to the season, as if quietly telling ancient stories. By cleverly blending traditional Chinese Tea oolong with autumn flavors, we can create a range of delicious drinks that capture the festive spirit. Each sip allows you to fully immerse in the beauty of the season, making Halloween celebrations not just about ghosts and candy, but also about warmth and indulgence. Halloween Oolong Tea Drinks Halloween is a holiday full of fantasy and mystery, and in addition to classic pumpkin lanterns and Halloween candies, why not try some unique oolong tea drinks? Oolong tea not only boasts a distinctive taste but can also be creatively paired with autumn flavors to create beverages full of holiday charm. Below are a few Halloween-inspired Loose Leaf Oolong Tea drink ideas to help you embrace the magic of the season. Tieguanyin Tieguanyin, a lightly fermented oolong tea, is known for its floral aroma and rich, smooth taste. With hints of orchid and subtle fruit notes, its golden tea liquor is silky and leaves a lingering sweetness. Halloween Twist: On Halloween, spice up your TieGuanyin by adding a pinch of cinnamon and a slice of ginger to create a cozy, warming drink. You could also sweeten it with honey or maple syrup to enhance the floral notes and make it a perfect autumn indulgence. Zhangping Shui Xian Zhangping Shui Xian is beloved for its full-bodied flavor and floral-fruity aroma. Its tea liquor is smooth, leaving a long-lasting aftertaste reminiscent of blooming flowers. Halloween Twist: Pair Shui Xian with dark chocolate for an indulgent treat. The tea’s floral freshness contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chocolate, creating a delightful sensory experience. You can also enjoy it with Halloween-themed snacks like pumpkin cookies or nut-based treats to enhance the festive vibe. Da Hong Pao Known as the "Queen of Tea," Da Hong Pao is celebrated for its strong fragrance and unique "rock" taste. Its deep red tea liquor carries fruity and nutty notes, with a full-bodied richness and lasting sweetness. Halloween Twist: On Halloween, pair Da Hong Pao with pumpkin-flavored pastries like pumpkin muffins or cookies. You can even enhance the tea with a dash of pumpkin spice, adding warmth and festivity to the drink. Fenghuang Dancong Fenghuang Dancong is famed for its varied floral and fruity aromas, often featuring notes of osmanthus and peach. Its bright tea liquor is refreshing, leaving a long-lasting sweet aftertaste. Halloween Twist: Serve Fenghuang Dancong with a fresh fruit platter to create a visual and flavor feast. Seasonal fruits like oranges, apples, and blueberries complement the tea’s fresh aroma. You could also experiment with fruit syrups to add extra flavor and fun to your Halloween tea party. Halloween isn’t just about candy and parties—it’s also a time to savor unique flavors and experiences. By combining oolong tea with seasonal ingredients and creative twists, you can easily craft festive Halloween tea drinks. Whether it’s the floral fragrance of Tieguanyin, the softness of Shui Xian, the richness of Da Hong Pao, or the fresh taste of Fenghuang Dancong, these teas will add warmth and color to your celebrations. As you sip your tea, you’ll feel the magic and joy of Halloween come to life. Why Autumn is Perfect for Oolong Tea Seasonal Change: As autumn quietly arrives, with its golden sunlight and cool breeze, temperatures begin to drop, and the days grow shorter, leaving our bodies craving warmth. In this season, a warm cup of tea becomes the most comforting choice, and oolong tea, with its balanced properties, stands out as the ideal autumn beverage. Oolong tea is brewed at around 90°C, making it enjoyable for most people. Each sip can instantly dispel the cold and fill you with warmth. Moreover, autumn's dry climate can leave the skin and throat feeling parched. Oolong tea’s moisturizing properties help counteract this dryness, offering both physical and mental comfort. Whether enjoying it in the crisp morning air or during a peaceful evening, a cup of Loose Leaf Oolong Tea brings a sense of coziness to your life. Unique Flavor of Oolong Tea: Autumn is a season of harvest, with the air filled with the aroma of ripening fruits. Oolong tea, with its rich and diverse flavor profiles, mirrors the abundance of the season. Different oolong varieties offer distinct tastes, from fresh osmanthus to rich honey notes, blending beautifully with the essence of fall. Many seasonal fruits and ingredients, such as apples, pumpkins, and walnuts, pair well with oolong tea, creating delightful drinks. For example, you can slice fresh apples and brew them with oolong tea, adding a crisp freshness to the tea. Or, mix pumpkin puree into oolong tea for a cozy fall treat, with the warmth of pumpkin complementing the tea’s depth. Health Benefits of Oolong Tea: Rich in antioxidants, boosts immunity: Oolong tea is packed with antioxidants like polyphenols and vitamin C, which help strengthen the immune system.Drinking best oolong tea during the flu and cold season can boost your defenses against illness. Boosts metabolism and aids digestion: Oolong tea promotes metabolism and digestion, making it perfect after indulgent autumn meals. It helps alleviate feelings of heaviness, ensuring you can enjoy seasonal treats without discomfort. Energizing and revitalizing: Oolong tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine, offering a gentle energy boost to shake off the autumn sluggishness and restore vitality. Find more jasmine tea with our Chinese Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> In conclusion, autumn is the perfect season to enjoy oolong tea. Whether it’s the warmth of the tea, the richness of its flavor, or the health benefits it provides, oolong tea is a must-have for this time of year. So, let’s embrace the season with a cup of oolong tea, savoring the beauty of autumn and its special charm. Halloween is a time for joy and mystery, and combining the unique flavors of oolong tea can make the celebration even more vibrant. Whether you share it with friends or enjoy it in the warmth of your home, oolong tea will be your perfect companion this autumn. Let’s embrace the magic of Halloween with the charm of oolong tea and feel the rich atmosphere of the season together!
How to Store Green Tea?

Guide

How to Store Green Tea?

on Oct 11 2024
Properly storing green tea is key to maintaining its fresh flavor and unique aroma. Unlike other types of tea, green tea is unfermented and highly sensitive to environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity. If your once-refreshing Chinese green tea becomes bland or bitter, improper storage may be the culprit. Correct storage often determines whether you enjoy a delicious cup of loose leaf green tea or have to settle for a less appealing brew. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that cause loose leaf tea to deteriorate, how to store it correctly, and how to determine if it has gone bad. Whether you’re an occasional tea drinker or a seasoned tea enthusiast, mastering these techniques will ensure you enjoy the best loose leaf tea over time. Factors Leading to Green Tea Deterioration Air Loose leaf tea is highly susceptible to absorbing moisture and odors from the air. Prolonged exposure can cause the leaves to lose their freshness and pure taste. Light Chinese tea, especially green tea, is sensitive to light. Prolonged exposure can degrade the antioxidants in the leaves, resulting in a loss of color and aroma. Temperature High temperatures speed up the oxidation of loose leaf tea, leading to a loss of aromatic compounds and freshness. Humidity Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth, ruining your tea sampler and its flavors. Odors Loose leaf green tea absorbs odors easily, so it should be stored away from strong-smelling items to maintain its fresh aroma. Proper Storage Methods for Green Tea Sealed Storage Use airtight containers to prevent oxidation of your green tea sampler. Containers like tin cans or glass jars are ideal for keeping your best loose leaf tea fresh. Avoid Light Store loose leaf tea in a dark, cool place or use containers with UV protection to preserve its vibrant green color and aroma. Keep Cool A stable, cool environment is key to slowing the aging process of Chinese green tea. Dry Environment Keep loose leaf tea sampler in a dry space to avoid mold growth. Avoid Odors Store your tea sampler away from strong odors to maintain the tea’s pure flavor. Find more green tea with our Chinese Green Tea Sampler.>>> How to Determine if Green Tea Has Gone Bad While green tea doesn’t spoil in the same way food does, its quality and flavor decline over time. After prolonged storage, the aroma, taste, and quality of green tea can noticeably change, becoming less fresh. Here are a few methods to help determine if green tea has lost its original quality: 1.Smell Changes Fresh green tea has a pleasant, refreshing aroma, often with grassy, floral, or vegetal notes. If you detect a stale or off smell, it may indicate oxidation or moisture exposure, causing the flavor and aroma to become less fresh. For the best green tea to drink, always choose tea that maintains its vibrant aroma and flavor. 2.Taste Changes Green tea should have a refreshing taste with a hint of sweetness and a soft, crisp flavor. If you find the tea to be bitter, lacking its original freshness and sweetness, or tasting stale, it is likely past its prime. 3.Cloudy Tea Fresh green tea should produce a clear, bright tea liquor. If the brewed tea appears cloudy, has sediment, or looks dull, it indicates that the quality has significantly declined. Properly storing green tea not only extends its shelf life but also ensures each cup remains full of fresh flavor and aroma. By understanding the factors affecting green tea quality and implementing correct storage practices, you can enjoy the best green tea experience daily. This attention to detail is especially valuable when enjoying a tea gift set, where maintaining each tea's unique characteristics adds to the overall enjoyment. Whether for maintaining the optimal state of your tea or assessing its quality, knowing these key points is essential for all tea enthusiasts. Although tea doesn’t spoil as easily as food, its quality gradually deteriorates. Thus, proper storage enhances the enjoyment of your tea and ensures that every brew reflects the pure and delightful nature of green tea.
Cool and Refreshing: Best Summer Tea to Beat the Heat

Guide

Cool and Refreshing: Best Summer Tea to Beat the Heat

on Aug 12 2024
In the sweltering summer, tea is not just a beverage but a way to enjoy life. If you're looking for a healthy and refreshing option, Chinese tea is an excellent choice. From aromatic flower teas to refreshing green teas and smooth, sweet loose leaf cold brew tea, Chinese tea offers a wealth of options. Cold Brew Tea: Smooth, Sweet, and Aromatic A must-try in summer is brewing a cup of cold brew tea. The sweetness of iTeaworld's expertly selected loose leaf cold brew tea comes from tea polysaccharides and amino acids, not sugar. The cold brew method enhances the tea's smoothness and brings out a fresher and more pronounced aroma! · Jasmine Green Tea Looking for a refreshing and aromatic cold brew tea? You can't miss this Jasmine Green Tea. The fragrance of this jasmine flower tea is rich and long-lasting, requiring 7 pounds of fresh jasmine flowers to produce 1 pound of tea. The green tea is made from fresh leaves of the Yunnan high mountain large-leaf tea trees, resulting in a brew that is crisp and refreshing. · Rose Black Tea Elegant and fragrant are the perfect descriptors for this Rose Black Tea. Its aroma is exceptionally rich, with 4 pounds of fresh rose petals used to produce 1 pound of black tea. The black tea is made from the fresh leaves of Yunnan Fengqing large-leaf tea trees, resulting in a brew that is full-bodied and sweet. · Fenghuang Dancong Fenghuang Dancong Oolong Tea is known as the "perfume of teas" and is considered one of the best loose leaf tea. The fresh leaves for this Fenghuang Dancong come from hundred-year-old tea trees, making it more durable for multiple infusions, sweeter in taste, and exceptionally refreshing when cold brewed. Find more cold brew tea with our Cold Brew Tea Sampler.>>> Green Tea: Freshness in Various Dimensions China's rich variety of tea plant species and exceptional tea-making craftsmanship have given rise to a diverse array of loose leaf green tea. Whether you prefer a robust, refreshing, or sweet and mellow taste, you can find a corresponding variety in Chinese loose leaf green tea. Imagine experiencing a range of Chinese green tea in summer; you'll discover just how rich and varied freshness can be! · Green Tea Sampler We have curated a collection of some of the most classic Chinese green teas, including Longjing and Biluochun, and created this Green Tea Sampler. With just one box, you can taste green teas from different renowned regions and experience the flavors resulting from various green tea production techniques. · Wild Green Tea This Wild Green Tea stands out for its vibrant and untamed flavor. It comes from the misty high mountain tea regions of Guangxi and is an certified organic loose leaf tea. The initial taste of this Wild Green Tea is slightly bitter, followed by a sweet aftertaste, with a unique and refreshing apple aroma. · Old Tree Green Tea This Old Tree Green Tea is made from the fresh leaves of old tea trees in Yunnan and is highly durable for multiple infusions. It has a sweet and long-lasting taste with a distinctive honey aroma. Jasmine Tea: Summer's Fragrance and Elegance In the summer, it's easy to feel irritable and lethargic. At such times, soothing your mood with the gentle and elegant aroma of jasmine tea is perfect! Jasmine tea also makes delightful tea gift sets for family and friends. · 3 Scented Jasmine Tea As an introductory jasmine tea, this 3 Scented Jasmine Tea has a rich aroma that impresses from the first brew. The green tea base, made from Yunnan high mountain tea, offers a mellow taste. · 9 Scented Jasmine Tea The 9 Scented Jasmine Tea is considered by many to be the best jasmine tea. It is made by infusing green tea with the fragrance of fresh jasmine flowers 9 times. This jasmine tea has a fresh, rich, and long-lasting aroma, with a refreshing, full-bodied taste and a strong, enduring sweet aftertaste. Find more jasmine tea with our Chinese Jasmine Tea Sampler.>>> Other Low Oxidation Tea: A Unique Refreshing Experience In addition to the previously mentioned cold brew tea, green tea, and jasmine tea, there are other low oxidation teas that are perfect for summer, offering a distinctive tasting experience. With a diverse range of low oxidation teas available, we recommend using a loose leaf tea sampler to find the tea that suits you best. · TieGuanyin TieGuanyin is one of China's best oolong tea. Our Light-aroma TieGuanyin comes from the core production area in Anxi, Fujian. This TieGuanyin has a sweet and clear taste with a notable natural orchid fragrance, making it excellent for both hot and cold brews. · Wild White Tea The fresh leaves for this Wild White Tea come from wild tea trees in the core white tea production area of Fuding, hand-made by a white tea master with over 40 years of experience. This Wild White Tea has a refreshing and mellow taste, with intertwined aromas of pekoe, floral and fruity notes, and woody scents. Why Choose iTeaworld Summer Tea?  High-Quality Ingredients: We select high-quality loose leaf tea made from hand-picked, tender buds and leaves.  Refined Processing Techniques: Premium fresh leaves undergo meticulous and complex processing techniques, resulting in rich flavors and aromas. Our loose leaf tea can be steeped multiple times, maintaining their aroma and taste.  Rich Aroma and Flavor: The aroma and flavor of our loose leaf tea come from the fresh leaves and unique processing methods, without added sugar or artificial additives. Whether brewed hot or cold, iTeaworld loose leaf tea offers a more intense aroma and a richer taste. Hot Brewed Tea or Cold Brewed Tea for Summer Cooling down? Both hot brewed tea and cold brewed tea can help cool you down in the summer. In hot weather, drinking hot brewed tea can promote blood circulation and induce sweating. The evaporation of sweat helps carry away heat, cooling the body down. Cold brewed tea provides an immediate cooling sensation, helping the body cool down quickly. In humid weather, where sweat doesn't evaporate easily, drinking cold brewed tea is more effective. Which is Healthier: Hot or Cold Brewed Tea? Whether you choose hot brewed or cold brewed tea, the nutritional content of the tea leaves remains largely unchanged. High-quality loose leaf tea provides significant health benefits regardless of the brewing method. There is a difference in caffeine release between the two methods. Hot brewing tends to extract more caffeine from the tea leaves compared to cold brewing. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you might prefer cold brewed tea to enjoy the flavors of loose leaf tea with less caffeine. Stock Up and Save Big on Summer Tea! Don't miss out on these incredible summer deals at iTeaworld. With discounts of 20% sitewide + an extra 5% off on Summer Teas, it's the perfect time to stock up on all your favorite loose leaf teas, with total savings up to 25% off.Free Wild Tea Sample with All Orders + First Order Free Shipping Code: FIRSTSHIP (Over $9) Indulge your passion for tea exploration with our new Summer Tea Sampler or expand your collection with our refreshing Green, Jasmine, Oolong Tea (Lightly Oxidized) or Cold Brew Tea selections. Whatever your tea tastes, you can enjoy the refreshing and cooling benefits of tea every day while saving money. It's also the ideal opportunity to gift the joy of tea to loved ones this summer.Subscribe For A Chance To Win Ultra-Rare Free Yellow Tea! Wrap your loved ones in the refreshing embrace of tea this summer, adorned with the season's most delightful discounts! Get 20% off on all teas, plus an extra 5% off on summer teas for a total of up to 25% off. Enjoy the perfect summer with loose leaf teas!Please note that 20% OFF Sitewide + 5% OFF Summer Tea Products (Discounts apply automatically at checkout).
Top 6 Reasons to Drink Loose Leaf Green Tea in Summer

Guide

Top 6 Reasons to Drink Loose Leaf Green Tea in Summer

on Aug 03 2024
The summer sun is bright, but the temperature and the humidity is high. Especially when staying outdoors for a long time, your body may feel uncomfortable. While enjoying the outdoor sunshine, it's also important to take care of your body. At this time, drinking loose leaf green tea is a delicious and beneficial way to achieve physical and mental comfort during the scorching summer. 1. Ensure Adequate Hydration In summer, high temperatures cause the body to lose water quickly. To stay healthy, we need adequate hydration. Drinking plain water can be boring, and you might often forget about it. But loose leaf green tea changes the situation entirely. When you have your favorite green tea, you can't help but take a sip now and then. Chinese green tea comes in a rich variety of types, making it easy to find one you love. We recommend using a loose leaf tea sampler to try different varieties of green tea. 2. Both Iced and Hot Green Tea Can Cool You Down In summer, whether cold-brewed or hot-brewed loose leaf green tea, it can cool you down from the inside out. Cold-brewed loose leaf green tea amplifies its sweetness and aroma, and the icy sensation not only cools you down but also provides a refreshing and clear experience. Hot-brewed green tea is rich and refreshing. The hot tea promotes internal circulation in the body, helping you to sweat and cool down more quickly. 3. Protect Your Skin in the Summer Summer's strong UV rays make the skin more prone to damage and aging. Along with good sun protection measures, drinking loose leaf green tea can be a great supplementary method to help protect your skin. Loose leaf green tea is the only non-oxidized tea among the six major types of Chinese tea. It contains a large number of plant-based antioxidants, which can prevent cell damage and reduce cell aging. 4. Make Weight Loss Easier The polyphenols and caffeine in loose leaf green tea can speed up metabolism and promote the burning of fat and other substances. Studies have shown that proper exercise, supplemented with green tea, can achieve better weight loss results, making weight loss easier for you. 5. Boost Your Immunity The humid and hot summer climate, along with high temperatures, can easily affect your health and bring discomfort, such as bacterial infections, headaches, insomnia, and indigestion. Loose leaf green tea is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and vitamins, which help boost your immune system and alleviate these discomforts. 6. Care for Cardiovascular Health In the high-temperature environment of summer, blood flow speeds up, and capillaries expand, which can easily cause cardiovascular problems. Studies have shown that loose leaf green tea can help regulate blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and reduce blood lipids, thereby reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, regularly drinking loose leaf green tea in the summer is an excellent way to maintain cardiovascular health. Loose leaf green tea makes wonderful and healthy tea gift sets for family and friends in the summer. Additionally, after brewing loose leaf green tea, the used tea leaves can be used as natural eye masks and face masks. They can help eliminate dark circles and make the skin more delicate. It’s definitely worth a try! Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> Loose Leaf Green Tea Recommendations · Longjing (Dragon Well) Longjing tea is one of the most famous Chinese teas and is considered one of the best loose leaf tea. The core production area of Longjing tea is the beautiful West Lake Scenic Area in Hangzhou, China. Longjing tea has a flat and straight appearance with a tender green color. It has a sweet and mellow flavor with a refreshing and fragrant aroma, complemented by a unique bean flower scent. · Biluochun Biluochun is produced in the Taihu region of Jiangsu, China. It is named for its curled shape resembling a snail and its abundant white tips. The uniqueness of Biluochun lies in the tender young buds and compact leaves picked during harvest. Biluochun tea has a bright green color, a fresh and mellow flavor, and a delicate aroma with distinctive floral and fruity notes. · Jasmine Green Tea Jasmine green tea has a very unique production process. Fresh jasmine flowers are layered with high-quality green tea multiple times, allowing the loose leaf tea to fully absorb the floral aroma before the jasmine flowers are removed. Jasmine green tea not only has the refreshing and health benefits of green tea but also combines the fragrance of jasmine flowers. · Huangshan Maofeng Huangshan Maofeng is produced in Huangshan, Anhui. Its uniqueness lies in its tender buds and the exquisite pan-frying technique, which results in exceptional performance in aroma, taste, and aftertaste. Huangshan Maofeng has a delicate appearance. The tea liquor is clear, with a fresh and mellow flavor, and an elegant aroma with hints of orchid. · Enshi Yulu Enshi Yulu is produced in Enshi, Hubei. Its unique steaming process preserves the natural color and rich nutrients of the tea leaves, resulting in a fresh taste with a long-lasting sweetness. Enshi Yulu has a fine and tight leaf shape with a bright green color. After brewing, the tea liquor is clear and bright, with a fresh and delicate aroma. · Old Tree Green Tea (Raw Pu-erh) Old Tree Green Tea (Raw Pu-erh) is made from fresh leaves of ancient tea trees in Yunnan. Due to its high-quality growing environment and tea-making process, it has a unique flavor and notable health benefits. Old Tree Green Tea is very durable when brewed. It has a rich and sweet taste with a long-lasting aftertaste and a distinctive honey-like aroma. If you're new to Chinese tea, the above green teas are great for you to explore. If you have some knowledge of Chinese tea and want to explore more unique green teas, you might try Wild Green Tea. This Wild Green Tea is made from the fresh leaves of wild tea trees, featuring fuzzy leaves and high tenderness, with a unique apple-like aroma. Additionally, this wild green tea is also an organic loose leaf tea. How to Brew Green Tea for the Best Taste? · Grandpa's Brewing Method Grandpa's brewing method is a popular technique loved by both beginners and experienced tea drinkers. All you need is a large cup, with a glass cup being the best choice. Add your loose leaf green tea and hot water to the cup in the appropriate ratio and temperature, then drink it after brewing. When the tea in the cup is almost finished, simply add more hot water. Repeat this process until the tea leaves lose their flavor. · Gongfu Brewing Method The Gongfu brewing method is a traditional Chinese tea preparation technique. It is suitable not only for loose leaf green tea but also for various types of Chinese tea such as loose leaf oolong tea and loose leaf white tea. Some of the best oolong tea, like Da Hong Pao and Fenghuang Dancong, are ideally brewed using this method with a white porcelain Gaiwan. The core of the Gongfu brewing method lies in multiple short infusions. This technique allows for precise control over brewing time and water temperature, bringing out the best flavors of the tea. You can refer to this video for specific steps on Gongfu brewing: https://www.tiktok.com/@iteaworld/video/7392924281056890144 · Cold Brew Method Most loose leaf green teas are excellent for loose leaf cold brew tea. Loose leaf green tea has a low oxidation level, characterized by its freshness, crispness, and aromatic clarity. The cold brew method enhances these qualities and reduces the bitterness of the tea. Cold brewing loose leaf green tea is simple and hard to get wrong. Generally, use 3 grams of green tea with 500 milliliters of water. Mix the tea and water thoroughly in a container, then refrigerate for 4-8 hours.iTeaworld offers a variety of high-quality loose leaf teas, making them perfect for gifting to friends.They are worthwhile best buy Summer Sale.If you're struggling to decide what to buy during the summer sale, consider selecting some loose leaf teas. They are not only healthy and delicious for personal enjoyment but also make excellent choices for staying refreshed in the summer heat.
How to Make Loose Leaf Cold Brew Tea?

Guide

How to Make Loose Leaf Cold Brew Tea?

on Aug 01 2024
On a hot summer day, there's nothing more comforting than taking a sip of loose leaf cold brew tea! How to make loose leaf cold brew tea: 4 simple steps 1. Put loose leaf tea into a large jar. 2. Add water to the jar, either room temperature or ice water. Add 500 ml of water for every 5 grams of loose leaf tea, and increase accordingly. 3. Stir the loose leaf tea and water mixture well, then place it in the refrigerator to chill for 6-12 hours (it can be left overnight). 4. After the chilling time is up, take the jar out of the refrigerator and strain it to separate the tea leaves from the tea. Now you can enjoy delicious loose leaf cold brew tea, and you can also add fruits or other ingredients you like to enhance the flavor. Many of the best loose leaf tea, such as Longjing and Fenghuang Dancong, taste exceptionally good when cold brewed and are definitely worth trying. FAQ: How does the taste of cold brew tea differ from hot brew tea? Compared to hot-brewed tea, loose leaf tea made with the cold brew method has a sweeter flavor and less bitterness. Refreshing loose leaf cold brew tea is perfect as tea gift sets for family and friends in the summer. When you try cold brewing the tea you usually brew with hot water, you'll notice some flavors in the cold brew tea that you might not have noticed in the hot brew tea. These flavors are often masked by the more readily released substances in hot water. This can be a novel and interesting experience. It's also fun to try cold brewing different kinds of tea using a loose leaf tea sampler. Some people also report that loose leaf cold brew tea is smoother and incredibly refreshing. Find more cold brew tea with our Cold Brew Tea Sampler.     What can be added to loose leaf cold brew tea? Foods with refreshing and fresh characteristics are great additions to loose leaf cold brew tea. These include strawberries, apples, pineapples, lemons, mint, cucumbers, and more. Some of the best oolong tea, such as Fenghuang Dancong and TieGuanyin, have a delightful taste when paired with fruits. If you prefer some sweetness, you can add honey or white sugar.   I'm worried about the hygiene of loose leaf cold brew tea! Hot brewed tea uses hot water that can kill potential bacteria. Hot brewed tea is usually consumed immediately after brewing, whereas cold brew tea is often left for a longer period. Compared to hot brewed tea, loose leaf cold brew tea does indeed have more hygiene concerns. Here are some tips for healthier consumption of loose leaf cold brew tea:  Opt for high-quality loose leaf tea rather than bagged tea. Tea bags contain broken leaves that make it difficult to judge the tea's quality and may harbor debris and bacteria.  Exercise caution when selecting cold brew teas with added fruits; choose versions that are freshly produced to minimize the risk of microbial growth, as fruit pieces are more prone to contamination than pure loose leaf tea.  Consume the prepared cold brew tea promptly and avoid leaving it in the refrigerator for extended periods.  Before cold brewing, rinse the loose leaf tea with water to remove any impurities. There are many high-quality loose leaf teas in Chinese tea culture. These teas do not include fruit pieces that can easily harbor bacteria; they rely solely on the quality of fresh leaves and meticulous production techniques to create rich flavors and aromas. Chinese tea also includes niche categories such as wild teas. If you're interested in trying Chinese organic loose leaf tea, you can explore within the range of wild teas.   Why is my loose leaf cold brew tea too teak? If your cold brew tea turns out too weak, it might be because the tea leaves weren't thoroughly mixed with the water. After adding loose leaf tea to water, ensure to stir it well. If you're using tea bags for cold brewing, consider cutting them open and mixing the tea leaves directly with the water to achieve a richer flavor. Another reason for weak tea could be that the cold brew time was too short. Try extending the steeping time by several hours beyond the initial cold brew period.   Can I steep the tea with hot water first and then refrigerate it? Yes, you can steep loose leaf tea in hot water first and then refrigerate it for cold brew. This method significantly reduces the cold brew time. Normally, teas require at least 6 hours of steeping for sufficient flavor, but with this method, 2-3 hours may be enough. Another common cold brew method is to add loose leaf tea to a large jar, pour in half hot water and half cold water, then refrigerate. However, using all or part hot water for cold brewing may increase bitterness. If you enjoy a stronger tea flavor, this slight bitterness may not be an issue for you. iTeaworld offers a variety of high-quality loose leaf teas, making them perfect for gifting to friends.They are worthwhile best buy Summer Sale.If you're struggling to decide what to buy during the summer sale, consider selecting some loose leaf teas. They are not only healthy and delicious for personal enjoyment but also make excellent choices for staying refreshed in the summer heat.
Best Chinese Tea Gift Sets of 2024

Guide

Best Chinese Tea Gift Sets of 2024

on Jul 05 2024
If you're looking to give a healthy and delicious gift, or if you have a friend or family member who loves tea, you should check out these Chinese tea gift sets. Chinese tea is especially suited for those who appreciate a sense of ceremony in life, seek inner peace, and aspire to live healthier and happier lives. If the person you're gifting has any of these preferences, choosing Chinese tea gift sets would be a thoughtful choice. 1. Jasmine Tea Chinese Jasmine Tea is a tea that almost everyone finds irresistible, with no learning curve required. It is fresh and light, offering an aromatic experience that feels like being in a garden. Did you know there are many varieties of jasmine tea? Entry-level three-scented jasmine tea has a rich and intense aroma, while top-grade nine-scented jasmine tea has a fresh and lingering fragrance. If you want to give a unique jasmine tea gift box, you should take a look at this Chinese Jasmine Tea Sampler. 2. Wild Tea If you're looking to give a truly special tea gift, you can choose from the wild tea series. Wild tea refers to tea made from fresh leaves of tea trees grown wild in unmanaged natural environments. Wild tea impresses with its robust flavor and uplifting aroma. Whether it's wild green tea or wild black tea, each variety has a distinct personality that leaves a lasting impression. Want to experience the raw vitality and natural wildness? Give wild tea a try! If you're looking to buy Chinese organic loose leaf tea, you can also explore within the range of wild teas. 3. Fenghuang Dancong (Mi Lan Xiang) Some may say tea is just hot water. Fenghuang Dancong can change their perception. It's a tea that even non-tea drinkers find delicious. Fenghuang Dancong is renowned as one of the best oolong tea. Fenghuang Dancong comes in many aromas, with Mi Lan Xiang being a classic favorite. The fragrance of Mi Lan Xiang Fenghuang Dancong is neither too light nor too overpowering, making it a very comfortable and elegant aroma. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> 4. Yunnan Black Tea (Dian Hong) For anyone who enjoys robust tea flavors, we always recommend Yunnan Black Tea. It has a classic smooth and sweet taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or with milk, Yunnan Black Tea is exceptionally delicious. Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> 5. Ripe Pu-erh Ripe Pu-erh has a rich and deep flavor that is cherished by seasoned tea enthusiasts. If you steep ripe Pu-erh in a thermos, it can yield an exceptionally mellow and sweet taste. Additionally, ripe Pu-erh is known for its digestive benefits and its ability to help lower cholesterol levels. Find more loose leaf dark tea with our Dark Tea Sampler.>>> 6. Chinese Tea Sampler If you've looked at many tea varieties and still aren't sure how to choose, this Chinese Tea Sampler might be perfect for you. This Chinese Tea Sampler includes the six most classic teas among the six major types of Chinese tea. We've gathered these universally recognized best loose leaf tea into this box. With just one box, you can taste and compare the different styles of Chinese tea. Whether you prefer fresh, robust, or aromatic teas, you'll find them all in this box. 7. Green Tea Sampler When you think of green tea, what comes to mind? Perhaps a fresh taste like springtime. Imagine your spring experience. Do you see the surprise of early spring greenery? Or the leisurely feeling of late spring? Chinese green tea is much the same. Though all are loose leaf green tea, each variety offers a unique experience. For example, Longjing provides a mellow taste with hints of chestnut and a floral aroma, while Biluochun offers a refreshing taste with floral and fruity notes. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> 8. Cold Brew Tea Sampler Do you crave a cold brew tea on a hot day? Then you might want to try this Cold Brew Tea Sampler made from high-quality Chinese teas. These loose leaf cold brew tea offers both robust flavors and delightful directions. They provide you with a healthy, sugar-free beverage that's perfect for hot weather. Chinese tea is not only delicious tea but also provides a tranquil and elegant tea drinking experience. Even within the same type of loose leaf tea, there is a wide variety of choices available for you to explore. It's like a palette of colors within the same hue—belonging to the same series yet each type leaves a distinct impression. By using a loose leaf tea sampler for tasting and comparing, you'll gain a richer and more enjoyable tea drinking experience. We hope this article provides you with useful information and inspiration to help you choose the perfect tea gift.
brew loose leaf tea

Guide

How to brew loose leaf tea without an infuser? 7 Easy Ways.

on Jun 04 2024
Did you just receive some loose leaf tea? Perhaps as a gift or an accidental purchase? Welcome to the richer world of tea! Unlike tea bags, loose leaf tea will provide you with a more profound and multifaceted experience. Before you start, you might find that you don't have a tea infuser. This is not a problem; there are many ways to brew tea without a dedicated infuser. In general, as long as your brewing method meets the following two principles, you'll be fine:  There is enough space for the tea leaves to unfurl in the water.  Separate the tea leaves from the tea liquor. 1. Grandpa Style Brewing Grandpa Style Brewing is very simple and effective. Many tea enthusiasts use this method regularly. You only need a large cup, into which you add loose leaf tea and hot water for brewing. Once the tea cools down a bit, you can start drinking it. When the tea in the cup runs low, just add more hot water. Repeat this process multiple times until the tea leaves lose their flavor. Most loose leaf teas will settle at the bottom of the cup after brewing. This way, the tea leaves and tea liquor are naturally separated in one cup. Some Chinese tea is especially suitable for Grandpa Style Brewing, such as loose leaf green tea, loose leaf white tea, and loose leaf oolong tea. Find more Chinese tea with our Classic Tea Sampler.>>> 2. The Strainer Method Do you have some fine mesh strainers in your kitchen? Then you're all set! You can brew loose leaf tea according to the temperature and time instructions on the package, and then use a strainer to separate the tea leaves from the tea liquor. Besides a strainer, other kitchen items that can be used for filtering, such as a slotted spoon, can also be used to brew loose leaf tea. 3. The Coffee Filter Method If you have coffee filters at home, they can be an excellent brewing aid. You can place the tea leaves on a large coffee filter, fold up the edges of the filter to form a small pouch, and then tie the folded edges with a piece of string. This way, you've made a DIY tea bag using a coffee filter. Remember to use a large enough coffee filter to give the tea leaves plenty of room to unfurl. This allows the flavors and aromas of loose leaf tea to be fully released. Chinese loose leaf teas offer a wide variety of flavors and aromas, so it's recommended to explore them through a loose leaf tea sampler. 4. The Aluminum Foil Method Another excellent material for making DIY tea bags is aluminum foil. You can place the tea leaves in the aluminum foil and fold it up to form a small pouch. Then, use a toothpick or needle to poke several small holes in the aluminum foil. As with coffee filter tea bags, remember to leave plenty of space for the tea leaves when making aluminum foil tea bags. 5. The French Press Method Do you have an old French press at home? A French press can also be a great tool for brewing loose leaf tea. You can put the tea leaves and hot water into the French press, keeping the plunger at the highest position. After the brewing time is up, press the plunger down to separate the tea liquor from the tea leaves. Be careful not to press the plunger all the way to the bottom, leaving some space for the delicate tea leaves. This way, the tea liquor won’t be too strong, and the loose leaf tea can be brewed multiple times. 6. The Lidded Cup Method If you have a lidded cup at home, and the lid can withstand hot water, here’s a handy method for you. After brewing the tea leaves with hot water in the cup, you can place the lid on the cup, leaving a small gap between the lid and the cup. Then, tilt the cup to pour the tea liquor through the gap into another cup. This way, the tea liquor and tea leaves are separated. Be careful during the process to avoid burning your hand on the hot cup. This method essentially simulates the Chinese gaiwan brewing technique using a lidded cup. The gaiwan method is very effective, and many best loose leaf tea can be brewed deliciously with a gaiwan. Affordable gaiwans can be purchased for just a few dollars, and they are highly recommended. Find more Chinese tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> 7. Cold Brew Method The cold brew method is very convenient; you only need a slightly larger container! Place your loose leaf tea in the container, fill it with water, and then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, you will have well-brewed tea. Most cold brew tea will settle at the bottom of the container after soaking overnight, so you don’t need to worry about separating the tea leaves from the tea liquor. You can use specific loose leaf cold brew tea for cold brewing, or select teas that are suitable for cold brewing such as green tea, white tea, oolong tea, and floral teas. Some of the best oolong tea, like Fenghuang Dancong, are especially delicious when cold brewed. Find more cold brew tea with our Cold Brew Tea Sampler.>>> Chinese loose leaf tea comes in a wide variety of types. Whether you prefer rich, robust teas or light, refreshing teas, you can find many options in Chinese teas. Chinese teas make excellent and delicious tea gift sets for family and friends. Additionally, if you are looking for Chinese organic loose leaf tea, you can choose from the range of wild teas in China. Before purchasing, be sure to check for organic certification from professional organizations to ensure you are getting qualified organic loose leaf tea. Hope these methods help you enjoy delicious loose leaf tea!
A Guide for Beginners

Guide

The Art of Tea Tasting: A Guide for Beginners

on Jun 01 2024
A professional tea taster needs to taste hundreds or even thousands of cups of tea to accumulate enough experience to accurately experience and describe the characteristics of each tea. For beginners, embarking on the journey of tea tasting is novel and interesting. Here are some methods to help beginners better enjoy the deliciousness of tea and appreciate the art of tea tasting. 1. Trying Various Types of Tea You might already be familiar with a certain type of tea, like black tea. Sometimes, it's beneficial to step out of your comfort zone and try as many different tea varieties as possible. You can explore teas with different processing techniques, tea tree varieties, origins, and even teas from different altitudes and years. Loose leaf tea, like wine, is influenced by multiple factors that affect its flavor. In fact, these factors have a more pronounced impact on tea compared to wine.   2. Tasting, Smelling, and Observing The taste of a tea is a primary factor influencing its character, but it's not the only aspect. The aroma, liquor color, and texture of tea leaves, combined with the taste, create a three-dimensional experience of tea tasting. This multidimensional experience offered by high-quality Chinese tea is exceptionally unique and rich. We recommend using a loose leaf tea sampler to explore the diverse varieties of Chinese tea. Tasting, smelling, and observing—these experiences from different senses compose a unique symphony about this tea. 3. Let the Tea Soup Linger in Your Mouth Allow the tea soup to linger in your mouth, ensuring that every part of your oral cavity comes into full contact with the tea. When swallowing the tea, take your time, allowing the tea to slowly glide down your throat. The purpose of these methods is to amplify and prolong the experience, enabling you to more clearly perceive the sweet or astringent sensations of the tea. Some widely acknowledged best loose leaf tea, such as high-quality Longjing and Tie Guanyin, especially benefit from this method of tasting. 4. Comparative Tasting Sometimes, you might think that a tea is already good enough. However, when you compare it to a similar variety of tea, you'll realize that your initial judgment may have been off, missing certain dimensions. Especially when conducting comparative tastings with teas of similar styles, you can more clearly discern the strengths and weaknesses of these teas. One of the best oolong tea, Da Hong Pao, is renowned for its unique rock charm. This rock charm is only found in Da Hong Pao from the core region of Wuyi Mountain. By comparing and tasting Da Hong Pao from different regions, you'll better appreciate the uniqueness and value of its rock charm. 5. Brewing Temperature Different types of tea require specific brewing temperatures to fully unleash their potential. Here is a guideline for the brewing temperatures of different types of tea. In practice, please try to follow the brewing instructions provided on the respective tea packaging. Green Tea: 80-90 °C (176-194℉) Yellow Tea: 80-90 °C (176-194℉) Oolong Tea: 95-100 °C (203-212℉) Black Tea: 85-95 °C (185-203℉) Dark Tea: 95-100 °C (203-212℉) Young White Tea: 80-90 °C (176-194℉) Aged White Tea: 95-100 °C (203-212℉) 6. Tea Utensils Choosing the right utensils for brewing is also very important. Suitable utensils, combined with the right tea, will ensure that the strengths of the tea can be fully expressed. · Fresh Tea (Green Tea, Yellow Tea, and Young White Tea, etc.) Fresh tea is best brewed in large glass cups, which not only tastes good but also looks appealing. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> · Fragrant Tea (Oolong Tea, etc.) Teas with a prominent aroma, such as Oolong Tea, are best brewed in white porcelain lidded bowls, as this helps to bring out the tea's aromatic qualities more effectively. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> · Rich, Mellow, and Sweet Tea (Dark Tea, Black Tea, and Aged Tea, etc.) Teas with these characteristics are best brewed in various types of clay teapots, preferably purple clay teapots, as this helps to fully extract the depth of flavor from the tea. Find more loose leaf dark tea with our Dark Tea Sampler.>>> A thorough understanding of tea's characteristics is essential for selecting the right teaware. 7. Pay attention to your subtlest sensations When you first start tasting tea, you might notice some sensations, but they are so delicate that they slip away in the next moment. When you communicate with some professional tea tasters, you will realize that the subtle sensations you experience might be one of the unique qualities of that tea. Beginners may not grasp these subtle sensations accurately when they first taste tea. However, paying attention to these sensations, experiencing them, and trying to describe them is a good starting point. Find more Chinese tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> In addition to the key points mentioned above that beginners need to know, there are many aspects worth exploring in the art of tea tasting. This requires tea lovers to try and experience as much as possible, especially by choosing high-quality teas to train their palate. Chinese teas not only have high quality but also offer a wide variety for everyone to choose from. You can not only taste the deliciousness of Chinese tea yourself but also send Chinese tea as tea gift sets to your family and friends. You can also choose Chinese organic loose leaf tea as a healthy and delicious gift. When purchasing Chinese organic loose leaf tea, please pay attention to whether it has been certified by professional organizations for organic testing. We hope these tasting experiences are helpful to you. Let's enjoy the deliciousness of tea together!
Chinese Loose Leaf Tea vs. Bagged Tea: Which is Better and Why?

Guide

Chinese Loose Leaf Tea vs. Bagged Tea: Which is Better and Why?

on May 31 2024
The original form of tea is loose leaf tea. Later, a tea merchant, while sending tea to his customers, decided to pack the tea in small silk bags to make it look more presentable. Upon receiving the tea, the customers directly put the tea from the small bags into hot water for brewing and found this method very convenient. Thus, bagged tea was born. Nowadays, there are many varieties of loose leaf tea, especially Chinese loose leaf tea, as well as a wide range of bagged tea to choose from. Which one is better, bagged tea or loose leaf tea? Dry Tea Size and Quality If you cut open the sachet of your tea bag and pour its contents into your palm, you'll get some crushed tea leaves. The production process of bagged tea involves shredding and blending a large quantity of tea leaves before packing them into the bags. The case is different for Chinese tea; you can clearly see whole leaves. Some loose leaf oolong tea has leaves that unfurl beautifully, revealing a sight of green leaves with red edges. Some of the best oolong tea, such as Da Hong Pao, possess this characteristic. Taste Characteristics and Complexity The taste of bagged tea generally leans towards being bold and robust. In Chinese tea, there are some teas known for their bold taste, such as Yunnan Black Tea (Dian Hong) and Lapsang Souchong, among others. At the same time, there are teas in Chinese tea culture characterized by freshness and sweetness. The variety of flavor profiles in Chinese tea is quite extensive. We recommend using a loose leaf tea sampler to explore the diverse range of Chinese teas. How to brew? The brewing method for bagged tea is very convenient. Typically, you just need to place the tea bag in a cup and add hot water to brew. Bagged tea generally lose their flavor after one or two brews. The brewing process for Chinese tea is a bit more complex. You usually need basic tea utensils like a Gaiwan (lidded bowl), fairness cup, and small tea cups. The specific steps are as follows: steep the tea leaves in the Gaiwan, pour the tea liquor into the fairness cup to mix evenly, then pour the tea liquor from the fairness cup into small tea cups for drinking. Chinese tea often retains its rich flavor after multiple brews. Some of the best loose leaf tea, such as Fenghuang Dancong and Tie Guanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy), can be brewed up to 7 times or more. Environmental and Health Impact Bagged tea, due to their packaging, inevitably contribute to more waste. Some tea bags are made of plastic, which is not environmentally friendly and can release microplastics during brewing, posing health risks. Chinese loose leaf tea, on the other hand, does not come with tea bags. Typically, when you purchase it, you get it in loose leaf form, which is more environmentally friendly and healthier. Therefore, Chinese tea is great choices for sending healthy and delicious tea gift sets to family and friends. To ensure convenience while brewing, iTeaworld includes corn fiber tea bags with our loose leaf tea. These tea bags are biodegradable, making them environmentally and health-friendly. Advantages and Disadvantages of Chinese Tea  Advantages:  More diverse and deeper flavors and aromas.  Can be brewed multiple times. 3-5 grams of Chinese tea can yield a large amount of tea liquor.  No plastic tea bags, more environmentally friendly.    Disadvantages:  Brewing process can be somewhat complex.  Some teas depend on brewing techniques; improper brewing may result in poor taste.  Some Chinese teas can be relatively expensive. Advantages and Disadvantages of Bagged tea  Advantages:  Quick and convenient brewing.  Affordable price.    Disadvantages:  Cannot be brewed multiple times.  Lower quality in terms of taste and aroma compared to Chinese tea.  May contain plastic tea bags, which are not environmentally or health-friendly. If you're seeking a higher quality of taste and aroma, then you might want to try Chinese loose leaf tea; there are many surprises waiting for you to explore. Apart from some famous Chinese teas, there are also lesser-known Chinese wild teas worth trying. Wild tea that has undergone organic testing and certification by professional organizations is high-quality Chinese organic loose leaf tea, both healthy and delicious. We recommend using a tea sampler to explore the various types of Chinese tea, which is more economical and convenient. If you prioritize convenience and speed, opting for bagged tea will save you a lot of time and only require simple brewing tools like a cup.
Explore different flavors of premium tea

Guide

Exploring Different Flavors of Gourmet Teas

on May 28 2024
Looking for some delicious, uniquely styled, and high-quality gourmet teas? Then you should check out some varieties of Chinese tea. Some famous Chinese tea is true gourmet tea. They not only tantalize your taste buds but also redefine your understanding of tea flavors and aromas. 1. Fenghuang Dancong (Milan Aroma) — High and Enchanting Aroma Excellent teas come from exceptional mountain environments, and Fenghuang Dancong (Milan Aroma), produced in the Fenghuang Mountains of Chaozhou, China, is a prime example. The most distinctive feature of Fenghuang Dancong (Milan Aroma) is its elegant orchid fragrance, combined with a hint of honey aroma. Its scent is both refined and prominent. This tea is a must-try for those who appreciate aromatic gourmet teas. In addition to being delicious on its own, Fenghuang Dancong (Milan Aroma) pairs well with slightly tart fruits and savory snacks. This combination makes for an exceptionally delightful afternoon tea experience. 2. Yunnan Black Tea — Rich, Smooth, and Sweet Aroma Yunnan Black Tea is made from high-quality Yunnan large-leaf tea trees and crafted with exquisite techniques, meeting your finest expectations for black tea. As a gourmet tea, Yunnan Black Tea is not only delightful to drink but also pleasing to the eyes and nose. Its liquor is red and vibrant, and its aroma is sweet, making it a feast for the senses. What makes Yunnan Black Tea particularly beloved is its rich and smooth taste, with layers that are both complex and harmonious. Want to make delicious black tea milk tea? Try Yunnan Black Tea, and you'll be pleasantly surprised. 3. Jasmine Tea — Fresh as the Fragrance of Early Summer Delicious Chinese jasmine tea is typically made using tender loose leaf green tea as the base, absorbing the fragrance of high-quality jasmine flowers from early summer. Jasmine tea usually has a bright orange-yellow liquor and a rich taste. Its aroma is fragrant and strong, making you feel as if there is a bouquet of blooming jasmine flowers nearby. This enchanting fragrance is what makes jasmine tea regarded as one of the best loose leaf tea. In addition to being enjoyed on its own, jasmine tea can also be enhanced with lemon and honey to create a refreshing and fragrant beverage. 4. Da Hong Pao — Unique Rock Charm What would the taste be like if a loose leaf tea came from high mountains covered in rocks? You should taste Da Hong Pao to truly appreciate it. The characteristic feature of premium Da Hong Pao is its "rock charm." This is a unique flavor found in Da Hong Pao from the core region of Wuyi Mountain in China. Therefore, Da Hong Pao is regarded as one of the best oolong tea. Additionally, premium Da Hong Pao has a smooth and textured taste, along with a charming floral and fruity aroma. It's a must-try variety of loose leaf oolong tea. 5. Old Tree Green Tea — Intense, Complex, a Digestive Aid Old tree green tea, also known as raw pu-erh, is a special type of tea originating from the renowned tea-producing region of Yunnan, China. It is typically sun-dried, a process that allows the tea leaves to absorb the full energy of the sunlight. The taste of old tree green tea is intense and complex, which might be a bit challenging for first-time drinkers. But why is ancient tree green tea considered a gourmet tea? Because although it may initially taste bitter, it quickly transitions to a sweet aftertaste that lingers, and its aroma is both fresh and rich. Moreover, old tree green tea has significant health benefits, promoting a comfortable feeling in the body with regular consumption. Its digestive properties make it particularly suitable for drinking after meals. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> One excellent aspect of Chinese tea is that it does not use artificial flavors for seasoning. Instead, it relies solely on unique tea tree varieties and production techniques to create a diverse range of flavors and aromas. We recommend using a loose leaf tea sampler to explore the delicious gourmet teas found in Chinese tea. Tea gift sets containing these gourmet teas also make excellent gifts for family and friends. Additionally, Chinese tea includes unique varieties such as old tree tea and wild tea. If you're interested in trying Chinese organic loose leaf tea, you can explore within the range of old tree tea and wild tea. When making purchases, please ensure to check for organic testing and certification from professional organizations. Whether you prefer a refreshing or bold taste, you can find unique varieties of gourmet teas in Chinese tea. Welcome to explore the rich world of Chinese tea.