Guide

Chinese wild tea refers to tea made from the fresh leaves of tea trees growing in the wild. Compared to tea trees cultivated in plantations, these wild tea trees grow without human management and propagate through seeds. Additionally, these wild tea trees often thrive in remote areas with excellent natural environments. People may have heard of famous Chinese tea like Longjing and Lapsang Souchong, but wild tea names are less known. Compared to these well-known Chinese tea, Chinese wild tea is relatively niche. However, due to its unique aroma and flavor characteristics, wild tea has also won the favor of many tea enthusiasts. Whether it's wild black tea, wild green tea, or other varieties of wild tea, they all possess a strong fragrance and a distinct, rich tea flavor. Therefore, wild tea is delicious when tasted on its own and is also suitable for making a variety of tasty beverages. Loose leaf tea gift boxes containing wild tea are excellent choices as healthy and delicious tea gift sets for family and friends. Lemon Wild Black Tea The freshness of lemon and the floral and fruity aroma of black tea compose a wonderful symphony—fragrant, rich, and sweet. · Preparation Method:  Place wild black tea into a cup and add an appropriate amount of hot water to brew.  Add fresh lemon slices and let them steep for a moment.  You may add some honey to taste. The sweetness of honey can balance the bitterness of wild black tea, making the tea more pleasantly sweet. The fresh citrus aroma of lemon combined with the rich taste of wild black tea offers a unique flavor experience. The vitamin C in lemon also helps boost the immune system. Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> Wild Black Tea Milk Tea What's the secret to making delicious milk tea? A rich and smooth tea infusion. Try making milk tea with wild black tea, and you won't be disappointed! · Preparation Method: 1. Brew wild black tea with hot water, then remove the tea leaves to obtain the tea infusion. Add an appropriate amount of milk and sugar to the tea infusion (adjust according to personal taste). Stir well, and it's ready to drink.   Milk tea made with wild black tea combines the aroma of tea with the smoothness of milk, perfect for tea lovers who enjoy the texture of milk tea. Wild Green Tea Juice This beverage offers a fresh and refreshing sensation, making it perfect for summer. · Preparation Method:  Brew wild green tea with water at 85-90°C (185-194°F), then remove the tea leaves to obtain the tea infusion.  Juice your favorite fruits (such as oranges or apples), or use store-bought fruit juice.  Thoroughly mix the green tea with the fruit juice to create a healthy drink. This blended beverage not only tastes great but also contains rich antioxidants and vitamins. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> Wild Oolong Tea Slushie You may have tried many fruit-flavored slushies, but a slushie made with wild oolong tea will give you a new experience—refreshing, palate-cleansing, and memorable. · Preparation Method: 1. Brew wild oolong tea with hot water, then remove the tea leaves to obtain the tea infusion. Let the tea cool down for a while. 2. Put the tea infusion, ice cubes, and a small amount of sugar or honey into a blender and blend until smooth to make the oolong tea slushie. This beverage has a delicate texture and is perfect as a refreshing summer treat. If you use some of the best oolong tea, such as Da Hong Pao, Tie Guanyin, or Fenghuang Dancong, to make this drink, it will have an even more distinctive flavor. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> Wild Dark Tea Butter Milk Tea This is a rich, smooth beverage that also aids digestion. · Preparation Method:  Add wild dark tea to an appropriate amount of water in a pot and boil to extract the tea infusion.  Add a suitable amount of milk, butter, and sugar to the tea infusion. Stir well and simmer on low heat for a while.  Pour out the tea infusion and strain out the tea leaves. Your wild dark tea butter milk tea is ready to enjoy. Find more loose leaf dark tea with our Dark Tea Sampler.>>> Herbal Wild White Tea If you want a tea with rich aromatic layers and a fresh, sweet taste, you should try herbal wild white tea! · Preparation Method:  Mix wild white tea with other herbs and flowers such as rose and chrysanthemum.  Add water at about 90°C (194°F) to the mixed tea and brew, then remove the tea leaves.  If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a small amount of sugar or honey. The addition of herbs and flowers not only enhances the flavor of wild white tea but also provides additional health benefits. Beverages made with wild tea are not only delicious but also a healthier choice. Wild tea is considered one of the best loose leaf tea in China. Because wild tea trees grow without human management, the likelihood of pesticide and fertilizer contamination is lower compared to plantation teas. If you are looking for delicious and healthy organic loose leaf tea from China, you can explore the range of Chinese wild teas. When purchasing, be sure to check for organic testing and certification by professional organizations. This will ensure that you are buying qualified organic loose leaf tea. We hope this article has provided you with new ideas for making beverages with wild tea. Besides using wild tea as an ingredient, other high-quality teas with strong flavors and rich aromas can also be used to create these delicious beverages.

What determines whether a tea is black tea, green tea, or oolong tea? It is the processing method that determines whether a tea is black tea, green tea, or oolong tea.   Theoretically, fresh leaves from a tea plant can be made into any of the six major types of Chinese tea (green tea, white tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, black tea, and dark tea). For example, if you stir-fry freshly picked tea leaves in a pan until they wilt and soften, then manually roll the leaves into a certain shape, and finally dry them, you will get loose leaf green tea. If, during the above process, after rolling the tea leaves, you do not directly dry them but instead pile them in a warm, humid room to ferment for a period of time (several hours or even longer), and finally dry the fermented tea leaves, you will get loose leaf dark tea. Find more Chinese tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> So, what is wild tea? When we discuss wild tea, we are no longer focusing on the processing method of loose leaf tea but rather on the raw material—the fresh leaves. From the perspective of cultivation methods, tea trees can be divided into several types: tea trees in tea gardens, wild tea trees, and ancient tea trees (usually over a hundred years old), among others. Some teas are considered among the best loose leaf tea precisely because their raw materials are of excellent quality, such as ancient tree Pu-erh tea from Yunnan. Wild tea refers to tea made from fresh leaves of wild tea trees. Wild tea trees are those that grow in the wild without human management. These trees are generally sexually reproduced varieties that grow in remote and environmentally superior areas. Because they are not managed by humans, wild tea is much less likely to contain pesticides and fertilizers compared to other types of tea. If you are looking for organic loose leaf tea among Chinese teas, you might consider wild tea. Before purchasing, be sure to check for testing and certification from professional organizations to ensure you are buying qualified organic loose leaf tea. Then, what type of tea is wild tea exactly? Black, green or others? Depending on your needs, you can process fresh wild tea leaves into any of the six major types of tea. If you prefer oolong tea, you can choose to make the fresh wild tea leaves into wild loose leaf oolong tea. This is why tea enthusiasts encounter varieties like wild black tea, wild green tea, and wild oolong tea when selecting Chinese tea. We have had the opportunity to explore and learn about various types of wild tea. From what we have learned, different types of wild tea have their unique characteristics. Here are some examples:  Wild black tea: The aroma of dry wild black tea is evident even before brewing. After brewing, the tea liquor is bright orange-red with a pronounced aroma that is not superficial. The taste is rich, sweet, and refreshing, with a notable mouth-watering effect.  Wild green tea: Even after multiple brews, wild green tea maintains its fresh and pleasant aroma, which is one of the advantages of Chinese green tea. The taste of wild green tea is rich and sweet. It may be slightly bitter at first, but it quickly turns sweet. Some tea enthusiasts wonder if wild tea can be made using the specific processing method, such as Da Hong Pao processing method. The answer is yes, but in practice, such examples are rare. The world of Chinese tea is very diverse, with many possibilities. If you want to try different types of Chinese tea, it is recommended to start with a loose leaf tea sampler, which is more economical and convenient. What are the health benefits of wild tea? The health benefits of Chinese tea are directly related to the processing methods, with less association with the type of fresh leaves. For example, both wild black tea and tea garden black tea have good effects on promoting digestion. Here are the health benefits of different types of wild tea. Different types of wild teas can be suitable tea gift sets for family and friends. · Wild Green Tea: Wild green tea contains a large amount of tea polyphenols, especially catechins (EGCG), which have strong antioxidant properties. These help prevent cell damage and slow down the aging process. Additionally, they help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and assist in weight loss. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>>   · Wild White Tea: Wild white tea is rich in tea polyphenols and amino acids, which have significant antioxidant effects and help enhance immunity. · Wild Yellow Tea: Wild yellow tea has a high content of tea polyphenols, and the production process generates a large number of digestive enzymes. Therefore, yellow tea has good antioxidant properties, enhances immunity, and improves digestion. · Wild Oolong Tea: As a semi-oxidized tea, wild oolong tea contains unique tea polyphenols and theaflavins, which have excellent antioxidant properties. These help combat free radicals, slow down cellular aging, and positively impact cardiovascular health. Wild oolong tea also aids in improving digestion, enhancing beauty, and helping control weight. Some of the best oolong tea is renowned for their aroma and have a soothing effect on mood. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> · Wild Black Tea: Wild black tea is rich in tea polyphenols and theaflavins, which have antioxidant properties that help delay aging and maintain cardiovascular health. Wild black tea also helps improve indigestion and spleen and stomach weakness. Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> · Wild Dark Tea: Wild dark tea has antioxidant and metabolism-regulating effects. Because of the post-fermentation process of wild dark tea, it is especially suitable for those looking to improve gut health and control weight.

Compared to tea from Chinese tea plantations, Chinese wild tea is relatively niche, but it has also garnered much love from enthusiasts. Chinese wild tea refers to tea made from the fresh leaves of wild tea trees. Depending on different processing techniques, wild tea is classified into various categories such as wild loose leaf green tea, wild loose leaf black tea, wild loose leaf oolong tea, and wild loose leaf dark tea. Chinese wild tea trees are those that grow in natural outdoor environments, where their growth process is untouched by human intervention. These trees reproduce through seeds, coexist with wildlife, participate in natural competition, and exhibit robust vitality. What Makes Wild Tea Special? China already produces a large quantity of high-quality Chinese tea from tea plantations, so why has wild tea received so much attention? It's because of some unique aspects of wild tea compared to plantation tea. Sexual reproduction varieties: Tea trees in plantations are mostly propagated by cuttings, resulting in fixed genes and varieties. Wild tea trees, on the other hand, reproduce through seeds, leading to genetic randomness. Additionally, sexually reproduced wild tea trees often have more developed root systems, enhancing their ability to absorb nutrients from the soil. Symbiosis with other flora and fauna: Tea plantation trees grow in artificially managed environments with minimal presence of other flora and fauna. In contrast, wild tea trees grow scattered in natural outdoor environments, coexisting with various trees, shrubs, and wildlife. Limited yield: The growing area of wild tea trees is much smaller compared to tea plantations. Due to no human intervention, wild tea trees that grow in the wild for decades are often small, and the amount of fresh leaves available for harvest is minimal. Therefore, the yield of wild tea is much lower than that of plantation tea. Wild Tea Trees Generally Thrive in Superior Growing Environments Some Chinese teas are regarded as among the best loos leaf tea, and their popularity is closely linked to the excellent growing conditions of their tea trees. Da Hong Pao, known as one of the best oolong tea, is a typical example. Seasoned tea drinkers can discern subtle differences in taste. The places where wild tea trees grow are often remote and inaccessible to most people, boasting superior natural conditions. Typically, only locals who frequently venture into the mountains are aware of the distribution of these wild tea trees. Based on our observations, wild tea in a region is often picked and consumed by locals for many years before it spreads on a small scale. The quality of wild tea in the same region also varies. Generally, wild tea picked from areas with better natural environments in deep mountains tastes better than those picked from nearby mountains. This is the result of local tea pickers and producers' years of experience in tea harvesting and processing. Safer and Healthier Most tea plantation trees involve the use of fertilizers and pesticides during their growth to increase leaf yield and prevent pest damage. The growth process of wild tea trees is untouched by humans, with no involvement of pesticides or fertilizers. Therefore, if you want to purchase Chinese organic loose leaf tea, you can look within the scope of wild tea. Wild tea is safer, healthier, and is great for gifting as tea gift sets to family and friends. So, do all loose leaf tea labeled as wild tea not contain fertilizers or pesticides? This cannot be confirmed. Soil or water pollution in local wilderness areas or the spraying of pesticides and fertilizers on vegetation near wild tea trees may occur. Therefore, when purchasing wild tea, it is essential to understand the origin of the wild tea and whether there are corresponding tests and organic certifications. However, overall, the likelihood of wild tea containing pesticides and fertilizers is much lower than that of plantation tea. What Are the Characteristics of Wild Tea in Terms of Taste? Wild teas from different regions each have their own unique flavors. If you have the opportunity, exploring and tasting them would be a fascinating experience. Feel free to use a loose leaf tea sampler to explore the different tastes of tea. After tasting wild teas from various places, we have identified some common characteristics in their taste. On one hand, teas of the same type produced from wild tea trees, such as black tea, tend to have a richer taste and a more vibrant tea color. On the other hand, wild teas are known for their strong aroma. Whether it's freshly picked leaves or brewed tea, the fragrance is distinct and uplifting when held in the hand.

What is black tea? Black tea is one of the six major types of Chinese tea, and it is highly popular worldwide. Black tea is known for its high oxidation level (70%~90%) and warm red-colored tea soup. It has a rich and delicate taste, often with a hint of sweetness. The earliest black teas can be traced back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) in China. Today, there are many Chinese black tea varieties, such as Lapsang Souchong, Yunnan black tea and Jin Jun Mei. Additionally, there are other varieties worldwide, including Assam Black Tea, Darjeeling Black Tea, and Earl Grey. What is dark tea? Dark tea is also one of the six major types of Chinese tea. While it may not be as well-known as black tea, many experienced tea enthusiasts believe that the deliciousness and influence of dark tea are no less than that of black tea. The distinctive feature of dark tea comes from its unique post-fermentation process. Post-fermentation refers to the process of piling tea leaves that have undergone withering and rolling, along with appropriate temperature and humidity, allowing the tea leaves to ferment under the action of microorganisms. There are several varieties of dark tea, including the well-known Ripe Pu-erh, as well as lesser-known varieties such as Liu Bao Tea and Anhua Dark Tea. I'm curious, why do black tea and dark tea have such similar names? "Black" and "dark" sound like they mean the same thing. Why did people choose such confusing names for black tea and dark tea? One theory suggests that historically, the first black tea Westerners encountered was China's Lapsang Souchong. When people saw the dark color of Lapsang Souchong's dry leaves, they began calling this loose leaf tea “black tea." If translated according to the Chinese name “红茶 (hóngchá)", the appropriate English name would be “red tea." However, the English name "black tea" persisted over time, and there was no intention to change it. Dark tea reached Europe and other regions later than black tea. When people considered translating dark tea according to its Chinese name “黑茶 (hēichá)," they found that the word "black" which accurately conveys the meaning “黑(hēi)" was already in use. What to do? Fortunately, there was also the word “dark." And that's how the English name for dark tea was settled upon. The Difference in Taste and Aroma Between Black Tea and Dark Tea Black tea generally has a mellow and smooth taste, with a noticeable sweetness. Its aroma often includes fruity and floral notes, leaning towards a fresh and fragrant profile. Some unique black teas, like Lapsang Souchong, also feature a distinct smoky aroma. It's recommended to explore the aromas of different black teas using a loose leaf tea sampler. Due to its post-fermentation process, dark tea has a denser taste compared to black tea. Its aroma typically includes notes of wood, agilawood, jujube, and sometimes a fungal earthiness, creating a deeper and more intense profile. Tea beginners may find the taste of dark tea challenging at first. However, those who have developed a taste for tea may find themselves irresistibly drawn to dark tea. For those who enjoy a mellow tea taste, besides black tea and dark tea, oolong tea is also worth trying. Many highly regarded best oolong tea, such as Oriental Beauty and Da Hong Pao, offer a mellow taste while showcasing the characteristic high fragrance of loose leaf oolong tea. The Difference in Production Regions Between Black Tea and Dark Tea Black tea is widely produced in several countries, including China, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, and Thailand. Dark tea is primarily produced in China. Among them, Yunnan Province in China is a major producer of ripe Pu-erh tea. In addition to Yunnan, there are locally famous dark tea production areas in Hunan, Hubei, Guangxi, and other regions of China. It can be fascinating to explore dark teas from different regions using a tea sampler to compare their characteristics. Black Tea Recommendations 1. Lapsang Souchong Lapsang Souchong is the earliest black tea in the world, originating from Wuyi Mountain in Fujian Province, China. The traditional version of Lapsang Souchong has a reddish-brown dry leaf appearance, a deep red liquor color, a mellow and lingering taste, and a unique smoky flavor. Because of this smoky flavor, Lapsang Souchong is highly acclaimed and considered one of the best loose leaf tea. The smoky flavor comes from the traditional Lapsang Souchong's unique pine wood smoking process. Today, due to restrictions on pine wood harvesting in the Wuyi Mountain region, the production of traditional Lapsang Souchong is gradually decreasing, being replaced by modern version of Lapsang Souchong without the smoky flavor. 2. Yunnan Black Tea (Dian Hong) Yunnan Black Tea primarily originates from Yunnan Province, China. It is characterized by using fresh leaves from Yunnan's large-leaf tea trees. Despite its history of less than a hundred years, Yunnan Black Tea has gained immense popularity among tea enthusiasts for its deliciousness and is now very well-known. The dry leaves of Dian Hong are reddish-brown with golden tips. The tea soup of Yunnan Black Tea is bright red, with a rich taste and noticeable sweetness, often accompanied by notes of sweetness, honey, and sweet potato aroma. Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> Dark Tea Recommendations 1. Ripe Pu-erh Ripe Pu-erh tea is mainly produced in Yunnan Province, China. It is made from large-leaf tea trees in Yunnan, and then undergoes a process of wet piling and complex fermentation to develop its unique flavor profile. Ripe Pu-erh has a mellow, rich, and smooth taste, with a noticeable sweetness and a distinctive aged flavor. It typically carries aromas such as honey, aged notes, woody tones, and fruity notes. 2. Liu Bao Tea Liu Bao Tea is primarily produced in Wuzhou City, Guangxi Province, China. One of the main reasons for the popularity of Liu Bao Tea is that people in humid and hot regions noticed that miners who regularly drank Liu Bao Tea were less prone to illnesses. As a result, Liu Bao Tea's benefits for regulating digestion, dispelling dampness, and relieving diarrhea became well-known among many. Liu Bao Tea is renowned for its characteristics of being "red, strong, aged, and mellow." It has a deep red liquor color, a thick and aged aroma, and a sweet and mellow taste. High-quality Liu Bao Tea carries aromas of pine smoke and betel nut. Tea gift sets containing Liu Bao Tea are excellent choices as healthy and delicious gifts for family and friends. Find more loose leaf dark tea with our Dark Tea Sampler.>>> In general, apart from their similar names, black tea and red tea are quite different in many aspects, making them two distinctly characteristic types of tea. In addition to black tea and dark tea, there are many other types of tea in Chinese tea culture worth trying, such as green tea, white tea, and oolong tea. Furthermore, exploring Chinese wild tea is also worthwhile; some wild tea that has undergone organic certification is healthy and delicious organic loose leaf tea, suitable for tea enthusiasts seeking healthier options. I hope this article helps you gain a better understanding of Chinese tea and know how to choose your favorite teas.

Walking in the forest, you accidentally stumble upon a wild tea tree. Excitedly, you pluck the loose leaves and brew them into a delicious tea. Sounds great, right? In reality, the situation could be much more complex, at least when it comes to Chinese wild tea. What does wild tea in China mean? If you're looking for wild tea trees in China, you'll need to head to the southern regions. The climate there is warm and humid, ideal for tea tree growth. If you find yourself near many artificially managed tea gardens, the chances of encountering wild tea trees are higher. Why is that? Because there's often a connection between wild tea trees and the tea trees in local gardens. In some places, some tea trees in local tea gardens are cultivated from these wild tea trees, and there are many such cases in Yunnan, a region renowned for Chinese tea production. In other places, this situation is even more prevalent, where local wild tea trees were once part of managed gardens but were later abandoned. As a result, these trees have been growing naturally in the wild for many years. In general, wild tea trees in China refer to tea trees growing in the wild without human intervention or management. If left unmanaged, how do wild tea trees avoid insect bites?  Insect bites aren't a concern. Generally, if insects have bitten the leaves, it doesn't affect the harvesting and consumption of wild tea leaves. As a result, it's common to see many insect holes on the leaves of wild tea trees. Occasionally, even freshly picked leaves may have insect holes. But this isn't a major issue. There's a famous Taiwanese oolong tea called Oriental Beauty, specifically known for its unique aroma and flavor achieved through insect bites on the tea leaves.  Farmers may perform simple management on wild tea trees. As the value of wild tea increases, some tea farmers who regularly harvest wild tea leaves may engage in simple management practices for some wild tea trees, such as periodically weeding around the tea trees and so on. Is there a possibility that someone might spray pesticides on wild tea trees? This situation is possible but not very likely. Because many farmers currently harvest wild tea for their own tea drinking. Generally, the likelihood of wild tea containing pesticides and fertilizers is much lower than that of tea from managed tea gardens. When purchasing wild tea, it's important to check for certifications from professional organizations to ensure that you're buying genuine Chinese organic loose leaf tea. How is wild tea harvested? Currently, the harvesting of wild tea can only be done manually. The growth conditions for wild tea vary across different regions in China, and the actual process may be more complicated than you imagine. Wild tea often grows in remote areas that are difficult for regular access; these areas are typically inaccessible by vehicles and require walking. Some wild tea trees have evolved from tea trees in managed gardens. These trees tend to grow in more concentrated areas, making harvesting somewhat easier. On the other hand, harvesting wild tea trees scattered in forests is more challenging. Harvesters need to trek through the forest for extended periods. In the forest, you may also encounter some unusual companions such as snakes, so you need to be extra careful at such times. What are the challenges in processing wild tea?  Irregular fresh leaves Wild tea trees are typically harvested only once a year during the spring season. When farmers go into the mountains, they harvest all the available fresh leaves from wild tea trees. Therefore, fresh leaves from wild tea trees cannot be as uniform in specification as those from managed tea gardens, such as full buds or one bud and one leaf specifications. The irregularity of fresh leaves means that the processing of wild tea involves more randomness and uncertainty.  Fresh leaves with unexpected moisture content Some wild tea trees grow under the shades of other tall trees throughout the year, resulting in high moisture content in their fresh leaves. On the other hand, there are wild tea trees that grow in very sunny locations, leading to drier fresh leaves. In general, the moisture content of fresh leaves from wild tea trees may vary from expectations, adding difficulty to the processing of wild tea. For example, if a tea master wants to make loose leaf green tea, the usual tea frying temperature and time may not be effective with wild tea leaves. If the tea master uses fresh leaves from wild tea trees to make loose leaf oolong tea, the time and intensity of the core processing step Yaoqing (shaking) also need to be adjusted accordingly. The outcome of Yaoqing (shaking) directly determines the success of making loose leaf oolong tea, which is crucial for producing the best oolong tea possible. Is it worth the difficulty to pick and produce wild tea? Wild tea does indeed have its value. In China, although the yield of wild tea is not high, it has always been popular. From our experience of tasting wild tea, it stands out in terms of aroma and flavor. Some people prefer famous Chinese teas such as Longjing, Da Hong Pao, and Tie Guanyin, while others appreciate the unique flavor of wild tea. If you want to taste the flavor of best loose leaf tea, give wild tea a try. Find more Chinese tea with our Chinese Sampler.>>> Additionally, what's fascinating about wild tea is its wild charm, which is subjective. Some people believe that wild tea has a unique wild charm, while others find this feeling too subtle to discern. If you want to experience this wild charm, you can compare wild tea with garden tea made using the same processing techniques. Garden tea tends to have a balanced taste across different levels, whereas wild tea also has corresponding taste levels but in a less balanced, irregular, and sometimes even rugged manner. If you have friends who are tea enthusiasts, you can choose tea gifts sets including wild tea for your friends. Your friends would be pleasantly surprised to receive wild tea. Chinese tea offers a wide variety of types, not just wild tea; there are many interesting varieties available. Feel free to explore the world of Chinese tea through a loose leaf tea sampler. We hope this sharing about wild tea has helped you gain more knowledge about tea and understand the stories behind these delicious teas.

Many Chinese tea enthusiasts may encounter tea names containing the word "wild" when selecting and purchasing Chinese tea. You might be curious, what does Chinese wild tea really mean? The following content may not be exhaustive, but we will answer some of your questions in detail. What Is Chinese Wild Tea? Chinese wild tea refers to tea made from the fresh leaves of wild tea trees. Wild tea trees in China generally grow in deep mountainous forests. These areas are often remote, so the growth process of wild tea trees is not intervened by humans; they grow and perish naturally. Typically, the growth process of wild tea does not involve the use of fertilizers or pesticides. If you're looking for organic loose leaf tea, you might consider choosing wild tea. Please make sure to check for organic testing and certification from professional organizations before making a purchase, to ensure that you are buying qualified Chinese organic loose leaf tea. Wild tea trees reproduce through seeds, and their varieties and the taste of the tea made from them are random, to some extent, they also possess more wildness. Where Do Chinese Wild Tea Trees Come from? The existence of wild tea trees sounds somewhat mysterious. Some might wonder, if we trace their origins, where do these wild tea trees come from? There are roughly two sources. Wild Type: These wild tea trees naturally grow in the wild, and their ancestors have been growing and reproducing in the wild for generations. The tea tree varieties we cultivate today are developed based on these wild tea trees. Cultivated Type: These wild tea trees originated from tea trees once planted by humans. In certain areas, tea plantations were established in the past; however, for various reasons, these plantations were abandoned. The tea trees and seeds left behind in these areas grew freely, forming extensive wild tea tree populations. In Which Regions of China Can Wild Tea Trees Be Found? Tea trees thrive in warm and humid environments. Therefore, wild tea trees in China are mainly distributed in the southern regions. Areas with wild tea distribution generally have two characteristics. The first characteristic is the presence of a favorable natural environment, including deep mountains and dense forests. The second characteristic is that these areas are often tea-producing regions with a certain number of tea plantations. Overall, the distribution of wild tea trees in China is relatively scattered. It is known that Yunnan, Sichuan, Fujian, Guizhou, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Zhejiang have the presence of wild tea trees. Why Does Wild Tea Have a Unique Flavor? Many of China's best loose leaf tea owe their reputation to the specific growing environments of their corresponding tea trees. For example, the renowned loose leaf green tea, Biluochun, is best produced in core regions such as those around Lake Taihu in Jiangsu Province. The water from Lake Taihu nurtures the highest-quality Biluochun. Other tea varieties, such as loose leaf oolong tea, also have many such examples. Da Hong Pao is arguably one of the best oolong tea, with excellent quality produced in the core region of Wuyi Mountain, where the tea trees grow in rocky soil, imparting a unique rocky charm to Da Hong Pao. The quality of Guangdong's famous oolong tea, Fenghuang Dancong, is also closely linked to its place of origin, with teas produced from high-altitude tea trees possessing a unique mountainous charm. It can be seen that factors such as soil, water, vegetation, and altitude in the growing areas have a significant impact on the quality of Chinese tea. The places where wild tea trees grow are often remote, with good water quality and soil formed from the forest's fallen leaves, known as humus. Therefore, wild tea has its unique taste. Comparing wild teas from different regions, we find that they share common characteristics: a richer taste, a distinct and high aroma, and a wild charm. Wild tea is not only suitable for personal enjoyment but also makes excellent tea gift sets for your tea-loving friends. Can All Teas Made from Leaves of Wild Tea Trees Be Consumed? Actually, not all fresh leaves from wild tea trees can be used to produce loose leaf tea. The wild teas we see on the market today are all teas that locals have been producing and consuming for many years. Locals have verified that these wild teas are safe to drink. In the pristine forests of Yunnan, there are numerous wild tea trees. Here, some varieties of wild tea trees are more primitive in evolution and differ greatly from the varieties of tea trees in plantations. The fresh leaves from such wild tea trees are not suitable for making tea. It is said that consuming tea made from these leaves may carry the risk of stomach upset. Wild tea is unique among Chinese teas. If you're interested in high-quality loose leaf tea, consider trying wild tea. Of course, you can also explore other types of Chinese tea through a loose leaf tea sampler. Chinese tea offers a rich variety for exploration. I hope you find more enjoyment in the world of Chinese tea.

Chinese jasmine tea is perhaps one of the most common teas served in Chinese restaurants. If you've ever enjoyed a fragrant, elegant hot tea in a Chinese restaurant, chances are it was Chinese jasmine tea. Curious to learn more about this delicious and aromatic Chinese tea? Below are some questions you might have about drinking Chinese jasmine tea. You don't necessarily need to read in order. You can quickly scan the headings to find the answers to your questions. What is Chinese Jasmine Tea? Chinese jasmine tea is a highly popular type of loose leaf tea in China, with a history of over a thousand years. The production process of Chinese jasmine tea is quite intricate. Its core process involves blending dry teas such as loose leaf green tea, loose leaf black tea, loose leaf oolong tea, etc., with jasmine flowers to allow the dry tea to absorb the aroma of jasmine flowers. The jasmine flowers are then sieved out, leaving the tea with the fragrance of jasmine but without the actual flowers. This is why Chinese jasmine tea is considered one of the best loose leaf tea. There are various types of Chinese jasmine tea, and understanding their types can help you choose the best jasmine tea for you. Based on the type of dry tea used to absorb the jasmine aroma, Chinese jasmine tea can be categorized as: Jasmine Green Tea Jasmine Black Tea Jasmine Oolong TeaJasmine White Tea ... Based on the number of times the dry tea absorbs the jasmine aroma, Chinese jasmine tea can be categorized as: 3-Scenting Jasmine Tea 5-Scenting Jasmine Tea 7-Scenting Jasmine Tea 9-Scenting Jasmine Tea ... Chinese Jasmine Tea vs. Chinese Green Tea About Chinese Green Tea: Chinese green tea refers to leaves from the tea tree (Camellia sinensis) that have undergone three steps: Killing Green, Rolling, and Drying, making it one of the six major types of tea. The production process of green tea preserves more natural substances from fresh leaves, resulting in a clear green tea liquor and greenish leaves. Chinese green tea generally has a fresh and mild fragrance. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> About Chinese Jasmine Tea: Chinese jasmine tea is not one of the six major teas; it's a type of processed tea. It's made by processing dry teas such as green tea, black tea, along with jasmine flowers. The most prominent characteristic of Chinese jasmine tea is its strong jasmine fragrance. Find more loose leaf jasmine tea with our Chinese Jasmine Tea Sampler.>>> Many people easily confuse Chinese green tea and Chinese jasmine tea, why is that? It's because many jasmine teas are made by processing loose leaf green tea. This type of jasmine tea is called jasmine green tea, combining the freshness of green tea with the fragrance of jasmine tea. What Makes the Best Jasmine Tea Fragrance? Firstly, jasmine tea made with fresh jasmine flowers has the best and most vibrant fragrance. Some manufacturers opt for dried jasmine flowers to cut costs, so be mindful to avoid such teas when purchasing. Secondly, the quality of the jasmine tea fragrance depends on how many times the dry tea has absorbed the jasmine aroma. In theory, the more times the dry tea absorbs the jasmine fragrance, the better. In practice, it's recommended to use a tea sampler to compare and try different jasmine teas to find the one you like best. If you're interested in tea fragrances, consider trying Chinese loose leaf oolong tea as well. Some renowned best oolong tea like Fenghuang Dancong, Da Hong Pao, and Tie Guanyin all have unique and captivating fragrances. How to Brew Chinese jasmine tea for the Best Flavor? The brewing methods vary for different types of jasmine teas, so follow the brewing instructions on the tea packaging for the best results. Most likely, you'll buy jasmine green tea. Here are some tips for brewing jasmine green tea for the best flavor: Rinse the tea utensils with boiling water:Pre-rinsing the tea utensils not only cleans them but also ensures they have the right temperature for brewing, resulting in better-tasting tea. Use white porcelain or transparent glassware:White porcelain and transparent glassware won't interfere with the jasmine green tea's flavor, highlighting its elegance and freshness. Opt for lower brewing water temperature:The ideal brewing water temperature for jasmine green tea is 80-90 degrees Celsius, which brings out the tea's aroma fully while avoiding bitterness. Use purified or mineral water:High-quality water enhances the flavor of brewed jasmine green tea. It's best to use purified or mineral water for brewing and avoid tap water. Can I Drink Chinese jasmine tea Every Day? For most people, it's fine to drink Chinese jasmine tea daily, as long as you don't consume it in excess. It's generally recommended not to exceed 8 cups per day. Who Should Avoid Drinking Jasmine Tea? People with a naturally cold body constitution or weak gastrointestinal function are not suitable for regular consumption of certain types of jasmine loose leaf tea, such as jasmine green tea. Because jasmine green tea is inherently cooling, frequent consumption by these individuals can exacerbate coldness in the body or cause gastrointestinal discomfort. What Are the Health Benefits of Jasmine Tea? In addition to its delicious taste, jasmine tea offers several health benefits, making it a great gift in tea gift sets for family and friends. Mental Alertness: Jasmine tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine, providing a refreshing and alerting effect that can relieve fatigue and drowsiness. Mood Enhancement: The aromatic fragrance of jasmine tea helps calm emotions and relieve stress. Antioxidant Properties: Jasmine tea contains various natural antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals in the body, offering antioxidant benefits. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory:Compounds like tea polyphenols in jasmine tea have antimicrobial properties, aiding in fighting bacteria and inflammation, which can help alleviate skin ulcers and similar conditions. Is Chinese jasmine tea High in Caffeine? Generally speaking, the caffeine content in a cup of Chinese jasmine tea is much lower compared to a cup of coffee. The caffeine content in different varieties of jasmine tea varies, mainly depending on the type of dry tea used to make this tea. For example, jasmine black tea tends to have a relatively higher caffeine content, while jasmine green tea has a relatively lower caffeine content. For the most common jasmine green tea, the caffeine content in a small cup (approximately 250 milliliters) is typically around 15-30mg. Can I Drink Jasmine Tea Before Bed? Whether it's suitable to drink jasmine tea before bed also depends on the type of jasmine tea you're drinking. You can use a loose leaf tea sampler to choose the jasmine tea that suits you. If the jasmine tea you're drinking doesn't make you overly stimulated, then it's fine to consume it in moderation before bed. However, if the jasmine tea makes you alert for several hours, it's best to avoid drinking it before bedtime. Additionally, regardless of the situation, avoid consuming too much jasmine tea before bed, as it can increase your body's burden and lead to increased nighttime urination.

Chinese Loose Leaf Tea vs. Bagged Tea If you have the opportunity to compare the taste of Chinese loose leaf tea and bagged tea, you can clearly feel that Chinese loose leaf tea offers a better and more memorable taste. Why is this so? Here are some reasons: Tea Leaf Quality: If you cut open a bag of tea leaves, you'll get a pile of tea leaf fragments. In contrast, the dry leaves of Chinese loose leaf tea are mostly intact. From the appearance of steeped Chinese loose leaf tea, you can easily imagine what these tea leaves looked like when they were picked. Tea Leaf Source: The source of tea leaves for bagged tea prioritizes convenience and speed, far from being as strict as Chinese loose leaf tea. Chinese loose leaf tea adheres to various standards such as garden quality and picking time, thus offering higher quality and taste. Brewing: Bagged tea generally loses its flavor after one or two brews. On the other hand, Chinese loose leaf tea can be brewed multiple times, with high-quality Chinese tea often able to be brewed 7 times or more. An Ancient Chinese Tea Experience The above content only covers the basic aspects of Chinese tea. In reality, the wonderful experience provided by Chinese tea goes far beyond these. Among Chinese tea enthusiasts, there is a poem from the Tang Dynasty poet Lu Tong called "Seven Bowls of Tea." This poem beautifully and accurately describes the experience of tasting Chinese tea. 七碗茶诗 Seven Bowls of Tea 卢仝 By Lu Tong 一碗喉吻润，二碗破孤闷。 One bowl moistens the throat, the second breaks the solitude. 三碗搜枯肠，唯有文字五千卷。 Three bowls search the intestines, only finding words five thousand scrolls. 四碗发轻汗，平生不平事，尽向毛孔散。 Four bowls cause a slight sweat, life's injustices, all dissipate through the pores. 五碗肌骨清，六碗通仙灵。 Five bowls cleanse the flesh and bones, six bowls connect with the immortal spirit. 七碗吃不得也，唯觉两腋习习清风生。 Seven bowls, unable to eat anymore, only feeling the refreshing breeze under both armpits. Where Do Tea Leaves Grow? Chinese Tea Provides the Info. High-quality Chinese loose leaf tea generally provides clear information about the source of the tea leaves, including the tea garden from which they were harvested and the specific picking time. Just as the deliciousness of food is largely determined by the quality of the ingredients, the taste of Chinese tea is closely related to the quality of the fresh leaves. Chinese tea with clear, high-quality sources is very suitable as tea gift sets for family and friends. China has many tea-producing regions, some of which are famous. These tea-producing regions have superior soil, rainfall, climate, and other conditions, producing unique and delicious teas that are highly sought after by many people. Here are two examples: Pu'er: Pu'er tea is mainly produced in the southwestern region of Yunnan Province, China, where the climate is rainy and characterized by misty mountain landscapes. There are numerous rivers, such as the Lancang River and Nu River, forming steep gorge terrain. In this superior geographical environment, a large number of tea trees grow, including ancient tea trees several hundred or even thousands of years old. Nowadays, Pu'er tea enthusiasts can be found all over the world. The popularity of Pu'er tea is closely related to its place of origin. Da Hong Pao: The famous loose leaf oolong tea Da Hong Pao is produced in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, China, and is one of the best oolong tea in China. Besides being a famous tea-producing region, it is also a AAAAA tourist attraction in China. Wuyi Mountain has a complex terrain with steep slopes and a variety of rocks such as volcanic rock, granite, and limestone, forming a unique landscape. Moreover, Wuyi Mountain is located in a subtropical zone with a mild and humid climate, which is very suitable for tea tree growth. The core production area of Da Hong Pao is collectively referred to as the "San Keng Liang Jian" (Three Gorges and Two Streams). Tea produced from these areas is particularly high-quality and expensive, known as authentic Yan Cha (rock tea). Find more loose leaf Chinese tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> China's Exquisite Tea-making Techniques Behind every famous Chinese tea, there is a unique tea-making technique that has often been refined and passed down for hundreds of years. It's recommended that everyone explores the taste of different Chinese teas using a tea sampler. Experienced tea masters are familiar with the state of tea leaves at each stage and know how to fully bring out the deliciousness of fresh leaves. Let's explore China's exquisite tea-making techniques through two examples. Longjing (Dragon Well) The tea-making process of the famous loose leaf green tea Longjing involves meticulous steps such as withering, rolling, and frying, all of which require skilled tea artisans with rich experience. Especially in the frying process, mastery of heat control, technique, and other technical requirements is necessary to ensure the color, aroma, and taste of the tea leaves. Experienced Longjing tea fryers apply different production techniques to different fresh leaves, such as "tender leaves with old firing, old leaves with tender firing." It is these techniques that produce the delightful taste of the famous Chinese green tea Longjing. Discover more loose leaf green teas with our green tea sampler. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> Fenghuang Dancong One of the core production techniques of the famous loose leaf oolong tea Fenghuang Dancong is the Zuoqing process, which is the key to this tea's enchanting aroma. The Zuoqing process of Fenghuang Dancong needs to be adjusted based on the daily weather conditions. If the sun is strong on the day of sun-drying the fresh leaves, then the shaking of the fresh leaves should be gentle; if the sun is milder, then the shaking motion should be more vigorous. This is a delicate balance that contributes to the tea's exquisite aroma. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> China's Long History of Tea Production and Diverse Tea Varieties According to research, tea trees first grew in the southwestern region of China, and the history of tea can be traced back to around 3000 BC. Initially, people might have boiled tea leaves to make a soup, and later, the techniques for tea processing gradually developed. Over thousands of years of development, the tea-making craftsmanship in China has continuously evolved and improved, giving rise to different types of teas such as green tea, yellow tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea, black tea, and dark tea. Each major type of tea has its unique flavor and characteristics. Moreover, each major type of tea includes numerous renowned varieties. This is why many people who enter the world of Chinese tea are deeply captivated by it. Feel free to use a loose leaf tea sampler to explore the rich world of Chinese tea and discover the best loose leaf tea that suit your taste. How to Brew Chinese Tea for Better Taste? The high-quality nature of Chinese tea is fundamental, but the appropriate brewing conditions and methods are also crucial in bringing out the deliciousness of Chinese tea. Here are some key points to help you brew Chinese tea better: Use Gongfu Cha brewing method: Using the Gongfu Cha brewing method allows you to easily control the tea-to-water ratio and brewing time, enabling you to better unleash the potential of Chinese tea. Follow brewing instructions: Each type of Chinese tea requires different brewing conditions. Generally, the packaging of tea will provide information such as tea-to-water ratio, brewing water temperature, brewing time, and number of brews. Please try to follow these instructions as closely as possible, and you will be amazed by the delicious tea you produce. Choose high-quality water: Choosing high-quality water such as spring water or mineral water can greatly enhance the taste of Chinese tea. Pay attention to brewing sequence: Generally, pouring in a small amount of hot water to preheat the teaware first can enhance your brewing experience. For certain types of tea leaves, such as Pu'er tea and oolong tea, multiple brews can be done, with each brewing time gradually increasing, allowing you to taste different flavors of tea liquor.

Some people might wonder, can people drink Chinese tea every day? The answer is yes. Just as coffee enthusiasts start their day with a cup of coffee, Chinese tea lovers also begin their day with a cup of tea. Benefits of Drinking Chinese Tea Every Day Chinese loose leaf tea contains no sugar and is rich in substances beneficial to health. Many people drink Chinese loose leaf tea every day because they personally experience how it can make the body more comfortable, the mind sharper, and overall mood happier. Therefore, Chinese tea is suitable as healthy tea gift sets for family and friends. Below are some of the health benefits that Chinese tea may bring: Mental alertness: Most Chinese teas contain a certain amount of caffeine. The caffeine in tea can help people improve alertness and attention, enabling them to better navigate daily life and work. Chinese tea contains much less caffeine compared to coffee. If you want to reduce caffeine intake but still maintain mental clarity, Chinese tea is a good choice. Antioxidants: Chinese tea contains various types of antioxidants such as catechins and vitamin C. Regular consumption of Chinese tea helps resist damage from free radicals and slows down the aging process of cells. Beauty and skincare: The various components in Chinese tea have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, helping to purify the skin and eliminate toxins, keeping your skin in better condition. Cardiovascular health: Several studies have shown that long-term consumption of Chinese tea is helpful in lowering blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood lipids, which positively impacts cardiovascular health. Chinese tea not only offers numerous health benefits but also comes in many varieties and is very delicious. When you're ready to embark on a journey with Chinese tea, it's recommended to start with a loose leaf tea sampler for convenience and affordability. Understanding Chinese Tea Ceremony The Chinese tea ceremony has a long history, dating back to the pre-Qin and Wei-Jin periods, roughly 2,000 years ago. The Chinese tea ceremony is about appreciating the beauty of tea, involving aspects such as brewing, tasting, appreciating, and cultural significance. During the process of brewing tea, people carefully experience the aroma and taste of the tea, expressing reverence for tea and cherishing life through meticulous actions and a sense of ceremony. The Chinese tea ceremony emphasizes not only the taste of tea but also the relationship between tea and people, interpersonal communication, and the connection between tea and nature. Find more loose leaf Chinese tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> How Do Chinese People Drink Tea Everyday? Many might be curious, do Chinese people usually sit at a tea tray and follow specific tea brewing steps when drinking tea in daily life? In some regions, such as certain parts of southern China, you might observe people using traditional Gongfu tea brewing methods in their daily tea rituals. However, more often than not, Chinese tea brewing and consumption are quite flexible and diverse. In rural areas of China, where people are busy with work, there isn't always the luxury of time to meticulously brew tea. Instead, people might quickly brew a large quantity of tea with hot water in the morning, leaving it on the table to drink throughout the day or taking it along while working outdoors. In certain mountainous areas of Guangxi, people even use tea leaves in cooking. They stir-fry the tea leaves with oil, add other ingredients, then boil and consume the mixture. During work hours, if Chinese people drink tea, it's likely in a large cup where they add tea leaves and hot water for brewing, or they use a kettle to boil the tea leaves. In reality, a complete set of Gongfu tea utensils is not commonly seen in Chinese offices. On the streets of China, you'll find more milk tea shops than traditional tea rooms. Milk tea has become a popular way for young Chinese people to enjoy tea. You'll find various types of Chinese teas in these shops, such as famous loose leaf oolong teas like TieGuanyin and Da Hong Pao, as well as fragrant flower teas like Chinese jasmine tea. These teas are combined with milk, fruits, and other ingredients to create refreshing beverages. However, it's worth noting that while daily consumption of Chinese tea is perfectly fine, indulging in these milk teas daily is not advisable and can even be harmful to health. Fine more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> What Types of Tea Do Chinese People Typically Drink? Generally speaking, the types of tea consumed by Chinese people vary across different regions. Chinese people have stable consumer groups for the six major types of tea (green tea, white tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, black tea, and dark tea), as well as processed flower teas. Typically, people in a region consume the tea that is locally produced. For example, in Guangdong Province, which produces Fenghuang Dancong, many locals love to drink Fenghuang Dancong, which is also considered one of the best oolong tea. Similarly, Zhejiang, Anhui, Hubei, and other regions produce loose leaf green tea. If you visit a friend's house in these areas, it's highly likely that they will serve you loose leaf green tea. However, there is one type of tea that seems to transcend regional boundaries and is considered one of the best loose leaf tea by many, and that is Pu'er tea. Whether in southern or northern China, you will find enthusiasts of Pu'er tea. How to Drink Chinese Tea Healthily Every Day While it's possible to drink Chinese tea every day, it doesn't mean there are no guidelines to follow. Paying attention to certain key points can help you enjoy delicious Chinese tea in a healthier and more relaxed manner. Daily Tea Intake: Although Chinese tea is beneficial for health, it's not recommended to drink it limitlessly. A daily intake of approximately 500-1000 milliliters of tea is suitable. Avoid Drinking Tea on an Empty Stomach: Drinking tea on an empty stomach can potentially affect gastrointestinal health, leading to digestive irritation and overstimulation of the nervous system. Avoid Drinking Extremely Hot Tea: Consuming tea that is too hot can pose risks of oral and esophageal burns. Long-term consumption of extremely hot tea may increase the risk of esophageal disorders such as esophageal ulcers and esophageal cancer. Avoid Drinking Strong Tea Before Bed: Strong tea contains high levels of catechins and caffeine, which may affect sleep quality and duration. Therefore, it's not recommended to drink strong tea before bedtime. When to Drink Chinese Tea? There is no specific time to drink Chinese tea; as long as you are not on an empty stomach and it does not affect your sleep, you can enjoy tea whenever you like. It is generally more comfortable for the body to drink some Chinese tea after meals, such as after breakfast (around 9-10 AM) and after lunch (around 1-3 PM). If conditions allow, you can drink different types of tea at different times of the day. For example, you can have some green tea after breakfast and some black tea after lunch.  

When you purchase and accumulate some of your favorite loose leaf Chinese teas, you will certainly start to consider storage issues. Storing loose leaf Chinese tea can be complex or simple. Once you understand some necessary principles, you can flexibly choose a Chinese loose leaf tea storage method that suits you. What will you gain from this article? >An easy-to-implement (adopted by many tea lovers) storage method. >Aspects to consider when storing tea. >What you should avoid exposing your tea to. A Simple and Universal Storage Method You can use small jars that are sealed, clean, and suitable for storing food at home to store tea. This is a method that many tea lovers use. These jars are convenient for storage and easy to access, and they can be flexibly placed in different locations around the house. You can also use your small tea storage jars, tea sets, and tea pets to create a tea-drinking space. Where can you find these jars? This is one of the reasons why I like this storage method. You can easily find small jars suitable for storing tea. Many purchased teas come with their own jars, so make good use of these jars. Other food jars are also a good choice. You can also purchase tea jars specifically designed for storage. These jars often have good sealing and freshness retention properties, allowing you to better preserve the flavor of the best loose leaf tea. Can the jars be transparent? If you are storing tea for the long term, never use transparent jars. For short-term storage, such as a few months, transparent jars are a good choice. They are easy to clean and readily available. Most importantly, transparent jars allow you to see the tea leaves inside clearly, which is very convenient for teas that are frequently accessed. Remember to keep your transparent tea jars in a cupboard or a light-shielded corner of the room. A quick tip: If you want to use glass jars to store tea but don't have a completely light-shielded environment, you can use amber glass jars. The amber color can filter out most of the light. Find more Chinese loose leaf tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> More Tips for Better Tea Preservation: Choosing the material of storage containers Ceramic containers are suitable for storing tea. This type of container is suitable for most teas, such as loose leaf oolong tea, loose leaf black tea, and so on. Porcelain jars, purple clay jars, or other ceramic jars are excellent choices. Tin containers are also very suitable for storing tea. Compared to other metal materials, tin has strong stability, is not easily oxidized, and is non-toxic and odorless. Tin containers can effectively preserve the freshness of tea and are very suitable for loose leaf green tea and loose leaf yellow tea. Iron containers can be used to store tea but are not the primary recommendation. This is because iron containers are prone to rusting in humid conditions, which can contaminate the tea leaves. Glass containers, as mentioned earlier, are a good choice under certain conditions. Adjusting the storage environment The storage environment for tea should be kept at room temperature. Pay particular attention to keeping your tea away from heat sources such as heaters. The storage environment should not have factors that could contaminate your tea, such as strong odors and moisture. The Importance of sealed storage Proper sealing can help avoid many issues in tea storage. On one hand, we need to consider the sealing of the container. Some tea jars with double-layer lids have excellent sealing and are very suitable for storing expensive/precious teas, such as some top-grade Da Hong Pao, etc. Tea jars with double-layer lids can better preserve the flavor of these best oolong tea. On the other hand, it is best to minimize the air inside the container. In this case, it is preferable to choose jars with suitable capacities or sealed bags. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler. Regularly Inspecting Tea You can set a schedule, such as checking your tea inventory every few months. This not only allows you to detect any potential issues with your tea early but also helps you keep track of how much tea you have, preventing some teas from being forgotten in a corner (which is quite common). When you realize that you have an excessive amount of tea in stock, it's a great idea to package some of them into tea gift sets to give to friends. An important principle of tea storage is not to purchase an excessive amount of tea. Therefore, before you are sure whether you enjoy the taste of loose leaf tea, it's recommended to use a loose leaf tea sampler to try it out, which is more economical and convenient. What are Your Tea Afraid of? The aspects mentioned above are not mandatory to follow. In fact, unless you are a professional tea storage expert, most tea enthusiasts cannot adhere to all of them. So, is there no way for us to store tea better? There is. Tea fear specific elements. If you can keep your tea away from these elements, they can be stored well for a long time. Please ensure your tea are kept away from: Light exposure Heat sources Strong odors Moisture Excessive air (oxygen) Based on these factors, you can flexibly choose a storage method. Pu-erh tea is an exception: Pu-erh undergoes aging during storage, improving its taste. The necessary conditions for Pu-erh aging are certain humidity levels and air. Therefore, when storing Pu-erh, avoid light exposure, heat sources, and strong odors.   If you want to explore more Chinese loose leaf teas, feel free to try the iTeaworld tea sampler, which helps you discover more great Chinese teas. Hopefully, this article helps you find a suitable tea storage method to better preserve the flavor of your beloved Chinese teas.

Why do you want to start drinking oolong tea? Is it to gain some health benefits? Yes, oolong tea has many health benefits, including beauty and anti-aging effects, weight loss, dental caries prevention, and improved cardiovascular health. Are you attracted by the taste and aroma of oolong tea? Yes, overall, oolong tea may be the most delicious among the six major types of tea. But when you want to start, you find it a bit overwhelming. This is not your fault; oolong tea is indeed quite complex in the realm of Chinese tea. However, there are still some methods to help beginners better start trying loose leaf oolong tea. Beginners should focus on two main aspects: the degree of oxidation and the production area. Here's a list suitable for beginners to try: >TieGuanyin  Lightly oxidized, representative tea from southern Fujian >Jin Xuan Oolong Lightly oxidized, representative tea from Taiwan >Fenghuang Dancong Moderately oxidized, representative tea from Guangdong >Da Hong Pao Highly oxidized, representative tea from northern Fujian The following will explain why these loose leaf tea are suitable for beginners to start exploring oolong tea. Why is understanding the oxidation level of oolong tea important? The oxidation level of oolong tea varies widely, ranging from around 15% to 70%. It's like a long ruler, with one end labeled with 15% oxidation and the other end labeled with 70% oxidation. If you happen to stand on the wrong end of the ruler, you'll find that the oolong tea you're drinking doesn't suit your taste. This can be quite frustrating for beginners. Beginners might think that oolong tea is not the type of tea they are looking for, thus missing out on this rich category of tea. In reality, many classic oolong teas are considered some of the best loose leaf tea, and missing out would be regrettable. Let's briefly understand the characteristics of oolong teas with different oxidation levels: >Oolong tea with around 15% oxidation level is closer to loose leaf green tea in characteristics. This type of oolong tea has a fresher and more refreshing taste. The tea liquor is apricot-yellow or slightly yellowish-green. >Oolong tea with around 40% oxidation level falls between green tea and black tea in characteristics. This type of oolong tea has its fresh side while also offering a rich taste. The tea liquor is generally orange-yellow. >Oolong tea with around 70% oxidation level is often mistaken for black tea. This type of oolong tea has a noticeably rich taste and is high in sweetness. The tea liquor is also more reddish. Some tea enthusiasts may love highly oxidized oolong teas but cannot tolerate lightly oxidized ones. This situation is not uncommon. Before purchasing and trying oolong tea, beginners should consider whether they prefer a fresh taste or a rich taste. This will help them find the best oolong tea that suits their preferences. Understanding the production areas of oolong tea? Start with their classic teas. Delving into the details of oolong teas from each production area can be quite complex. You may need to understand which oolong teas are famous in each region, the characteristics of their production processes, and what aesthetics are valued in their tea leaves. Feeling overwhelmed already? Let's put aside this line of thought for now. While each production area has many types of oolong teas, oolong teas from the same region share similarities in tea tree varieties and processing techniques. It's like siblings from the same family; although they have different personalities, they all have characteristics that belong to their family. At this point, choosing the most typical sibling from this family to understand what their brothers and sisters are like shouldn't be too hard to imagine. Production area Northern Fujian Southern Fujian Guangdong Taiwan Characteristics · Mainly characterized by rich floral and fruity aroma, with noticeable roasted fragrance. · Known for their "rock charm" (Yanyun). · Primarily dominated by refreshing and uplifting floral fragrances. · Sweet and brisk taste. · Predominant floral and nectar aroma, long-lasting fragrance. · Notable for their "mountain charm" (Shanyun). · Mainly featuring a clear and fresh floral aroma, often with hints of milk fragrance · Sweet and refreshing taste.   Da Hong Pao TieGuanyin Fenghuang Dancong Jin Xuan Oolong These recommended oolong teas are not only suitable for beginners to try but also make excellent choices as tea gift sets for family and friends. Here are some oolong tea tips for beginners:   Use the Gongfu tea brewing method for multiple infusions Oolong tea requires an appropriate brewing method to fully bring out its flavor. It is recommended to use the Gongfu tea brewing method for oolong tea. The Gongfu tea brewing method involves using a small amount of water (about 150 milliliters) and a specific amount of tea leaves (about 5 grams) for each infusion, with a short brewing time (about ten to fifteen seconds). High-quality oolong tea can be infused up to 7 times or even more. You can use a loose leaf tea sampler to explore different types of oolong teas and their brewing characteristics. During multiple infusions, the oolong tea leaves gradually unfurl, releasing their flavor fully. The taste of the tea liquor you experience is not fixed but undergoes subtle changes. This offers a rich and interesting experience that bagged teas cannot provide. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> Drink the same oolong tea continuously for a few days Compared to many common beverages like coffee or fruit juice, oolong tea has a much milder taste profile. If you're used to strong flavors, you might not immediately appreciate the taste of oolong tea when you first start drinking it. However, when you drink the same oolong tea continuously for a few days and your taste buds become accustomed to its mild flavor, you'll start to notice its rich layers, which are worth savoring. Congratulations, at this point, you've already experienced some of the beauty of oolong tea. Find more Chinese loose leaf tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> Be cautious with caffeine While the caffeine content in a cup of oolong tea is lower than that in a cup of coffee, it's still significant and should not be overlooked. If you're sensitive to caffeine, remember not to drink oolong tea before bedtime. Insomnia that follows can greatly affect your experience of trying oolong tea. Different oolong teas also vary in their caffeine content, which you can explore and experience using a tea sampler. By now, you probably have some ideas on how to start trying oolong tea. The beauty and richness of oolong tea require careful savoring. Once you've mastered some tips and tricks, you'll find this journey unfolding more smoothly and becoming more enjoyable.

Let's Start with the Color of Tea Soup Black tea and green tea are probably names everyone is familiar with. You might have also heard of white tea and dark tea. In fact, among the six major types of tea in China, only one type of tea (oolong tea) is not named based on color. Therefore, it's a good idea to start understanding the types of Chinese loose leaf tea from the perspective of color. However, please consider color only as a starting point, because once you have enough knowledge about Chinese tea, you will realize that merely judging tea by its color is far from sufficient. What determines the color of tea soup? The core change during the tea-making process—oxidation—determines the color of the tea soup. Here's a simple principle: the higher the degree of oxidation, the darker the color of the tea soup. Oxidation is too abstract. I want to know what it actually means! The degree of oxidation actually determines the taste of tea. The lower the degree of oxidation, the more substances are retained in fresh tea leaves, resulting in a fresher and more refreshing taste in the produced tea. The higher the degree of oxidation, the more changes occur in the substances within fresh tea leaves, resulting in a richer and more robust taste in the produced tea. Here is a summary： Green Tea (Oxidation: 0) - Fresh and Tender White Tea (Oxidation: 5%~10%) - Light and Sweet Yellow Tea (Oxidation: 10%~20%) - Delicate and Mellow Oolong Tea (Oxidation: 15%~70%) - Lasting Aroma and Rich Flavor Black Tea (Oxidation: 70%~90%) - Rich and Full-bodied Dark Tea (Oxidation: 100%) - Mellow and Lingering After-taste Advanced Understanding of the 6 Major Types of Chinese Tea Chinese tea is a rich and vivid world, and summarizing it in words alone is too superficial. All of this information serves as an introduction, similar to signposts that can help you quickly find the best loose leaf tea that suits you. The real journey begins when you taste the tea. Green Tea Loose leaf green tea is the earliest type of tea to appear in China and also has the most varieties among the six major teas. People pursue freshness and tenderness in green tea, and many production techniques for green tea have developed based on this. For example, the best fresh leaves for green tea are full buds, followed by one bud and one leaf, and then one bud and two leaves, and so on. Characteristics of Green Tea: Clear Soup, Green Leaves Production Process: Killing Green → Rolling → Drying RepresentativeTeas: >Biluochun Tea >Longjing Tea >Huangshan Maofeng Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> White Tea White tea has the fewest production steps among the six major teas. Many people may find white tea too mild at first, but a deeper taste reveals its richness and beauty. White tea is distinguished between new tea and aged tea. New tea is fresher and more fragrant, while aged tea is richer and more flavorful. Characteristics of White Tea: Clear Soup, Green Leaves with White Hair Production Process: Withering → Drying Representative Teas: >White Peony Tea >White Hair Silver Needle >Shou Mei Yellow Tea Yellow tea is the rarest type among the six major teas. How rare is it? Some seasoned tea enthusiasts may not have even tried yellow tea. Yellow tea shares many characteristics with green tea, but it has a yellowish color and a mellower taste compared to green tea. Characteristics of Yellow Tea: Yellow Soup, Yellow Leaves Production Process: Killing Green → Rolling → Moist Yellowing → Drying Representative Teas: >Junshan Silver Needle >Mengding Huangya >Huoshan Huangya Oolong Tea A notable characteristic of loose leaf oolong tea is its strong fragrance. While other types of tea like green tea and black tea also have pleasant aromas, none are as prominent and rich as oolong tea. Furthermore, many characteristics of oolong tea lie between those of green tea and black tea. You might taste a tea and think it's black tea, only to find out it's actually oolong tea. To determine if a tea is oolong, one must look at the production process rather than relying solely on taste. Characteristics of Oolong Tea: Yellow or Red Soup, Green Leaves with Red Edges Production Process: Withering → Bruising → Killing Green → Rolling → Drying Representative Teas: >Fenghuang Dancong >TieGuanyin >Da Hong Pao Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> Black Tea Black tea is a well-known type that many people are familiar with. Its tea soup is reddish and it has a strong taste. The earliest black tea in the world originated in China, and now the cultivation and production of black tea have expanded to many countries, resulting in the development of various varieties. Characteristics of Black Tea: Red Soup, Red Leaves Production Process: Withering → Rolling → Oxidation → Drying Representative Teas: >Yunnan Black Tea >Lapsang Souchong >Jin Jun Mei Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> Dark Tea Dark tea is cherished by many seasoned tea enthusiasts. An interesting phenomenon is that no matter which type of Chinese tea one starts with, they might end up appreciating dark tea. Dark tea is famous for its post-fermentation process, resulting in a taste that is rich and enduring. Characteristics of Dark Tea: Red or Brown Soup, Brown Leaves Production Process: Killing Green → Rolling → Wet Piling (Post-fermentation) → Drying Representative Teas: >Ripe Pu'er >Anhua Dark Tea >Liubao Tea You can try through a loose leaf tea sampler to explore diverse Chinese teas. A tea sampler is a collection of small packets containing different types of tea, making it more economical and convenient. Why Are There So Many Types of Tea? Some tea types were born accidentally! The production processes of some teas were discovered accidentally or were once considered failed production methods. For example, there was a mistake in the production of green tea that caused the leaves to turn yellow. This led to the creation of the earliest yellow tea. The birth of dark tea is even more interesting. Early on, people transported green tea to regions like Tibet, a journey that took 2-3 months. During the long transportation, the green tea would get repeatedly wet from rain and then dried in the sun, completely changing its appearance and taste. Eventually, people discovered that these tea leaves were unique and tasted great, leading to the exploration of the production process for dark tea under conditions simulating long-distance transportation. The wisdom of Chinese people making full use of tea The earliest type of tea was only green tea, which required using the youngest buds and leaves. So what about the other slightly mature leaves on the tea tree? Later on, during exploration, people discovered that these slightly mature fresh leaves produced teas with different flavors. These flavors were not the fresh and tender ones of green tea but were richer in taste or easier to develop aromas. Now, oolong tea and black tea are made using slightly more mature fresh leaves. The well-known aromas of some of the best oolong tea (such as Fenghuang Dancong, Da Hong Pao, etc.) are closely related to the corresponding fresh leaves of the tea tree. This wisdom of making full use of fresh leaves at different stages indirectly contributed to the birth of a wide variety of teas in China. Find more Chinese tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> Frequently Asked Questions: What type of tea is Pu'er? Pu'er tea is a general term for a type of tea produced in Yunnan Province, China. Pu'er tea is divided into raw Pu'er (sheng Pu'er) and ripe Pu'er (shu Pu'er). Raw Pu'er (sheng Pu'er) belongs to the category of green tea because it does not undergo post-fermentation during production. Raw Pu'er (sheng Pu'er) is often mistakenly thought to be dark tea. Pu'er (shu Pu'er) is the true form of dark tea. What type of tea is Chinese flower tea? You may have heard of some Chinese flower teas, including jasmine flower tea, osmanthus flower tea, and magnolia flower tea. These flower teas are fragrant and delicious, making them perfect as tea gift sets. Chinese flower tea is made by allowing dried tea leaves to absorb the aroma of fresh flowers. Strictly speaking, Chinese flower tea does not belong to the six major types of tea; it is a type of processed tea. Find more loose leaf jasmine tea with our Chinese Jasmine Tea Sampler.>>> What is Lapsang Souchong? Why does it have a smoky flavor? Lapsang Souchong is a type of black tea. Only traditional Lapsang Souchong made with traditional methods has a smoky flavor. This smoky flavor comes from two special processes during production: the pine wood smoking during the withering stage and the pine wood drying during the drying stage. Modern Lapsang Souchong made with modern methods no longer has a smoky flavor. At this point, you likely have some understanding of the types of Chinese tea. There may still be areas where you feel you need more information and want to learn more. Indeed, there is much more to explore about Chinese tea. The development of Chinese tea encompasses complex, accidental, exploratory, pursuit-driven, skilled, cultural, and heritage aspects, making it difficult for us to fully understand it from a singular perspective. However, this is perfectly fine and actually quite an interesting process. Let's enjoy this journey of exploration together.

Why Choose Chinese Loose Leaf Tea? Many people are familiar with bagged tea. Bagged tea is convenient and comes in a wide variety of flavors. In such circumstances, why should we try Chinese loose leaf tea? In fact, many tea enthusiasts, when they reach a certain level of interest in tea and have a higher pursuit of its quality and taste, turn their attention to Chinese loose leaf tea. China has a long history of tea making. Over the course of thousands of years, tea-making techniques and tea culture have flourished. As of now, according to incomplete statistics, there are thousands of types of Chinese tea. Based on production techniques, Chinese tea can be divided into the following six categories: loose leaf green tea, loose leaf white tea, loose leaf yellow tea, loose leaf oolong tea, loose leaf black tea, and loose leaf dark tea. The rich variety makes Chinese teas very suitable as tea gift sets to give to family and friends. What Kind of Taste Do You Prefer, Rich or Refreshing? If you start by trying tea categories that you don't like, you might get the impression that Chinese tea isn't suitable for you. In reality, the six major categories of Chinese tea almost cover teas with different characteristics, and each category has a rich variety of tea species. Choosing the right direction from the beginning is crucial. If you prefer a refreshing taste, enjoying the subtle flavor and mild aftertaste while savoring tea, then you should turn your attention to teas with fresh characteristics. For you, loose leaf green tea, loose leaf white tea, and loose leaf yellow tea are suitable choices. Additionally, some brewing methods, such as cold brewing, will enhance the refreshing taste of the tea, so feel free to try a Cold Brew Tea Sampler to explore the joy of cold brewing. If you prefer a rich taste, enjoying the full-bodied experience in your mouth, then you should explore teas like loose leaf black tea, loose leaf dark tea, and some highly oxidized loose leaf oolong teas. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> Oxidation Level - An Important Consideration Oxidation sounds a bit complex, doesn't it? If you delve deeper into Chinese tea, you'll find that oxidation is an unavoidable topic. Oxidation in tea refers to the process where certain substances in fresh tea leaves interact with oxygen. Through oxidation, many substances in tea leaves undergo complex changes. For instance, the polyphenols in fresh leaves may oxidize into theaflavins or thearubigins. Chlorophyll in fresh leaves may oxidize into phaeophytin. Visually, the lower the oxidation level of the tea, the lighter the color of the associated tea leaves and tea liquor; conversely, the higher the oxidation level, the darker the color of the associated tea leaves and tea liquor. In general, teas with low oxidation levels are characterized by freshness and clarity, while teas with high oxidation levels are warmer and more mellow. You can explore this by trying out a loose leaf tea sampler, which is quite intriguing! Find more Chinese loose leaf tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> Concerned about Caffeine Content? Here Are Some Tips. The variation in caffeine content among different teas is significant. Here are some general principles to consider. The caffeine content of tea is correlated with its oxidation level. Generally speaking, the higher the oxidation level of the tea, the higher its caffeine content. Therefore, if you're seeking low-caffeine tea options, loose leaf green tea and loose leaf white tea would be suitable choices for you. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> How to Judge the Quality of Chinese Tea? Different types of Chinese tea have corresponding standards for judging quality. But we still can find some general rules. Observing Appearance From the appearance, good Chinese loose leaf tea should be clean with minimal impurities, and the tea leaves should be intact without being broken into small pieces. The form of Chinese loose leaf tea is mainly either strip-shaped or ball-shaped. Strip-shaped dry tea is best when it's symmetrical, smooth, and uniform in appearance. Ball-shaped dry tea is best when the size is uniform and the particles are compact. Tasting the Tea Soup High-quality Chinese loose leaf tea should have a smooth and comfortable taste. If a tea has unpleasant odors such as sourness or burnt flavors, its quality may not be very good. You can try different teas and compare them using a tea sampler to discover your preferences. Another interesting point is that most good teas develop a pleasant sweetness towards the end. Exploring Chinese tea is a rich and fascinating endeavor. Sometimes, the abundance of information about Chinese tea can be overwhelming. Aspects such as taste, oxidation level, and caffeine content can serve as guideposts to help you navigate the rich world of Chinese tea and easily discover the teas that best suit your preferences.

Have you noticed that in our lives, some things seem bright at first glance, but after the initial novelty wears off, they don't seem as interesting anymore? On the other hand, some things may not catch your eye initially, but the more you delve into them, the more enduring and captivating they become. Chinese tea falls into the latter category. When you delve deeper into the world of Chinese tea, it may seem complex and daunting. Is it all worth it? There might not be a straightforward answer to that question, so let's take a closer look. What Types of Chinese Tea Are There? If you find yourself drawn to a particular type of Chinese loose leaf tea, it's recommended to start from there. Each type of Chinese tea has its own famous and captivating varieties. There's no wrong place to start when exploring Chinese tea. If you're considering selecting tea gift sets, Chinese tea is also a great option. · Two types of tea you may be most familiar with: green tea and black tea. Chinese Green Tea Loose leaf green tea is known for its fresh and tender taste. Among all types of tea, loose leaf green tea has the lowest level of oxidation, and it is precisely this characteristic that gives loose leaf green tea a high content of catechins, endowing it with excellent antioxidant properties. In China, there are many varieties of loose leaf green tea, including famous ones like Longjing, Biluochun, Huangshan Maofeng, and Taiping Houkui. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> Chinese Black Tea The rich and robust flavor, as well as the warm, reddish hue of the tea liquor, are familiar to many when it comes to loose leaf black tea. Loose leaf black tea, to some extent, is the opposite of loose leaf green tea. This is because loose leaf black tea undergoes a high level of oxidation, also known as full fermentation. The diverse types of Chinese black tea are also worth exploring. If you enjoy a strong flavor and distinct aroma, trying Chinese Dian Hong tea may pleasantly surprise you. For those who prefer something more unique, black tea with a smoky flavor, such as traditional Lapsang Souchong made through a special production process, is worth a try. Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> · Tea with lighter oxidation levels Now let's introduce two types of tea you may not be as familiar with: loose leaf white tea and loose leaf yellow tea. From the perspective of oxidation levels, both loose leaf white tea and loose leaf yellow tea have low oxidation levels. Therefore, in terms of taste and aroma, loose leaf white tea and loose leaf yellow tea are quite similar to loose leaf green tea, leaning towards a fresh and tender profile. Chinese White Tea During the production process, loose leaf white tea undergoes only minimal oxidation. The leaves are not pan-fired or rolled during production; instead, only the delicate, fuzzy-backed leaves are dried naturally or with gentle heat, preserving their white, fuzzy appearance. Compared to loose leaf green tea, loose leaf white tea has a lighter, more refreshing taste with a hint of sweetness. Chinese Yellow Tea The production process of loose leaf yellow tea is similar to that of loose leaf green tea, with the addition of a "yellowing" step before or after the drying process. This "yellowing" process gives loose leaf yellow tea its characteristic yellowish liquor and leaves. · Tea with higher oxidation levels Two other types of tea with oxidation levels similar to loose leaf black tea are: loose leaf oolong tea and loose leaf dark tea. Therefore, like loose leaf black tea, loose leaf oolong tea and loose leaf dark tea have a richer flavor profile. In terms of tea liquor, the color of loose leaf oolong tea and loose leaf dark tea is also deeper, similar to black tea. Chinese Oolong Tea One of the most intriguing aspects of loose leaf oolong tea is its unique production process called Zuoqing. Zuoqing involves the shaking and resting of tea leaves, which is a highly intricate and delicate process. However, it is precisely because of this Zuoqing process that loose leaf oolong tea possesses a highly aromatic characteristic that other types of tea do not have. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> Chinese Dark Tea Loose leaf dark tea is a special kind of tea. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that many people initially find it difficult to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. However, as people continue to drink tea, they often become enamored with this type of tea. Loose leaf dark tea undergoes a unique post-fermentation process, which enhances its flavor profile and makes it more enjoyable to taste over time. Find more Chinese loose leaf tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> Beginner-Friendly Tea Brewing Techniques Explaining the art of brewing Chinese tea can be quite complex, but starting out doesn't have to be difficult. Firstly, you can opt for a brewing vessel suitable for all types of tea: the gaiwan. Here's a slightly simpler perspective to approach this issue—considering the oxidation level of the tea. Yes, let's continue building upon the knowledge we've discussed earlier to make it more comprehensible. Generally, the lower the oxidation level of tea, the more delicate the leaves. Such teas are best brewed at lower water temperatures, around 80-90 degrees Celsius. Additionally, they can endure fewer brewing cycles. This brewing method is suitable for loose leaf green tea, loose leaf yellow tea, and tender white teas such as Bai Mudan. On the contrary, the higher the oxidation level of tea, the more it can withstand steeping. Such teas are suitable for higher brewing temperatures, around 95 degrees Celsius or boiling water. They can generally endure more steeping cycles, about 5-7 times or even more. This brewing method is suitable for loose leaf black tea, loose leaf dark tea, and moderately oxidized oolong teas such as Da Hong Pao. Below are the brewing methods for different types of tea. Beginners can refer to and experiment with them. In fact, the best brewing technique comes from practice, and many tea enthusiasts develop their preferred brewing methods over time. Trying out a loose leaf tea sampler that suit your taste would be a great start.   Suitable Tea Sets Brew Temperature Brew Time The Times the Tea Can Be Brewed Green Tea Gaiwan/Glass cup 80-90 degrees 10-20 seconds 3-4 times White Tea Gaiwan 80-90 degrees 10-20 seconds 3-5 times Yellow Tea Gaiwan/Glass cup 80-90 degrees 10-20 seconds 3-5 times Oolong Tea Gaiwan/Zisha teapot 95-100 degrees 10-20 seconds 5-7 times Black Tea Gaiwan/Zisha teapot 90-95 degrees 10-20 seconds 5-7 times Dark Tea Gaiwan/Zisha teapot 95-100 degrees 10-20 seconds 5-7 times The above content serves as just an introduction to understanding Chinese tea. When delving into the world of Chinese tea, it's important not to feel overwhelmed by trying to master all the knowledge at once. Yes, if you approach it this way, you'll find that learning about tea can be quite challenging. In reality, every new tea you try brings its own unique pleasure. Learning as you experience, progressing through experience—someday, you'll realize how far you've come on your tea journey.

There are many types of tea in China, with various classifications. The most basic classification is based on different processing techniques, dividing Chinese loose leaf tea into six major categories: green tea, white tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, black tea, and dark tea. Faced with the diverse types of Chinese tea, it is recommended to sample them in the form of loose leaf tea sampler to economically and conveniently discover the best loose leaf tea that suits you. In addition to this, there are also Chinese flower teas. Chinese flower tea refers to teas made by using dry tea leaves to absorb the fragrance of fresh flowers. Finished flower teas usually do not contain actual flowers but retain the charming aroma of fresh flowers. How to Choose Different Types of Tea? How to Choose Green Tea: When selecting loose leaf green tea, pay attention to the appearance. Check if the dry tea leaves are evenly shaped, if the raw materials are tender, and if the leaves are tightly rolled. Green tea is prized for its freshness and tenderness, so new tea with visible white hairs is preferred. When tasting green tea, the tea liquor should be fresh, refreshing, with a lingering sweetness. If the tea liquor is slightly astringent at first but leaves a refreshing aftertaste, it indicates a high-quality green tea. Find more loose leaf green tea with our Green Tea Sampler.>>> How to Choose White Tea: For loose leaf white tea, it is preferred to select those with abundant and plump buds and tender leaves. If you see white tea with small, sparse buds and unevenly aged leaves when selecting loose leaf white tea, it is best not to purchase it. When tasting white tea, the tea liquor should be fresh, mellow, and sweet. If the tea liquor of a particular white tea tastes rough, thin, and lacking in flavor, then the quality of this white tea is not very good. How to Choose Black Tea: There is a distinction between large leaf and small leaf varieties of loose leaf black tea, and the appearance of these two types differs. When selecting loose leaf black tea, for large leaf varieties, it is preferable to choose those with plump and tightly rolled leaves; for small leaf varieties, it is preferable to choose those with slender and tightly rolled leaves. The taste of loose leaf black tea should be sweet, mellow, and refreshing. Find more loose leaf black tea with our Black Tea Sampler.>>> How to Choose Yellow Tea: Among the six major types of tea, loose leaf yellow tea is relatively less common. When selecting loose leaf yellow tea, it is preferable for the dry leaves to be straight and uniformly shaped, with visible fuzz. Good quality loose leaf yellow tea should have a mellow and lingering sweet aftertaste. How to Choose Oolong Tea: When selecting loose leaf oolong tea, if the dry leaves are in strip form, it is preferable for them to be tightly rolled; if the dry leaves are in granular form, it is preferable for them to be tightly curled. The taste of loose leaf oolong tea should be rich and mellow, with a lingering sweetness and a pleasant aftertaste that lingers on the palate. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> How to Choose Dark Tea: In terms of appearance, high-quality dark tea cakes should have intact surfaces, clear textures, and distinct edges, without any cracks when viewed from the side. Loose dark tea should have evenly shaped leaves and a certain amount of stems. The taste of dark tea is best when it's rich and mellow with a lingering sweet aftertaste. If drinking a particular dark tea leaves one's throat feeling dry or uncomfortable, then the quality of that dark tea is not very good. How to Choose Flower Tea: High-quality Chinese flower tea should have a uniform appearance without any admixture of broken tea leaves. When brewed, good flower tea should have a mellow and sweet taste, with a faint floral aroma lingering on the palate for a long time. Find more loose leaf jasmine tea with our Chinese Jasmine Tea Sampler.>>> Suitable Groups for Different Types of Tea Different types of loose leaf teas have varying effects. Understanding these aspects can help you discover teas that are more suitable for yourself and assist you in selecting appropriate tea gift sets for your family and friends. Green TeaLoose leaf green tea contains relatively high levels of tea polyphenols, which have excellent anti-radiation effects. Suitable groups for loose leaf green tea: Those who work frequently in front of computers, individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, and those who consume greasy foods regularly. White TeaLoose leaf white tea contains essential enzymes for the body, which promote fat metabolism, balance blood sugar, and improve cognitive function and eyesight. Suitable groups for loose leaf white tea: Individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, arteriosclerosis, and children. Yellow TeaDuring the production process, loose leaf yellow tea generates a large amount of digestive enzymes, which are beneficial for the spleen and stomach. Suitable demographics for loose leaf yellow tea: Individuals with digestive problems, loss of appetite, and sedentary obese individuals. Oolong TeaLoose leaf oolong tea has beneficial effects on reducing blood lipids, lowering cholesterol, and aiding digestion. Suitable groups for loose leaf oolong tea: Individuals who are overweight. Black TeaLoose leaf black tea has a mild nature, can protect the gastric mucosa, and also has a vasodilatory effect. The caffeine and aromatic substances in it are conducive to diuresis. Suitable groups for loose leaf black tea: Individuals with urinary tract obstruction, gastric discomfort, and heart disease. Dark TeaLoose leaf dark tea can reduce fat and blood pressure, and eliminate greasiness. The "Fusarium solani var. tricinctum fermentation liquid" contained in loose leaf dark tea can promote the hydrolysis of amylase, protease, and pancreatic protease, improving the intestinal function of the human body. Suitable groups for loose leaf dark tea: Individuals who are overweight, have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and poor digestion. Flower TeaLoose leaf flower tea can help to soothe the liver, moisten the lungs, and protect the internal organs. It has a good relieving effect on symptoms caused by insufficient qi and blood. Suitable groups for loose leaf flower tea: Individuals with insufficient qi and blood and hormonal imbalances. In the process of selecting Chinese tea, we have delved into the rich content of Chinese tea culture. From the types of tea to their health benefits, we have together experienced the endless charm brought by Chinese tea. In our busy lives, it's worth taking a pause, brewing a pot of tea, and savoring the warmth and tranquility within. Choosing your favorite Chinese tea is choosing to care for your inner self and embracing a love for life.

Green Tea Sampler - Fresh and Refreshing Chinese green tea is unfermented tea, characterized by its clear soup and green leaves. Loose leaf green tea is of the highest quality in spring, as there are fewer bitter substances and more fresh flavor substances in spring tea, resulting in a refreshing taste with a sweet aftertaste and a fragrant aroma. iTeaworld's Green Tea Sampler offers a variety of famous loose leaf green teas from China, including Longjing, Biluochun, and Huangshan Maofeng. Allow yourself to fully explore the rich variations in freshness and flavor among different green teas, and experience the refreshing taste and sweet aftertaste characteristic of loose leaf green tea. Oolong Tea Sampler - Rich Aroma, Long-lasting Flavor Chinese oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea, characterized by its moderate nature without being too cold, combining the sweet richness of black tea with the fragrance of green tea, offering a strong taste with freshness and a lasting aftertaste. The notable feature of loose leaf oolong tea is its ever-changing aroma, with the most prominent aspect being its rich and uplifting fragrance, often dominated by a complex floral and fruity aroma. The diverse aroma variations of loose leaf oolong tea surpass those of other types of tea. iTeaworld's oolong tea sampler carefully selects classic loose leaf oolong teas from different regions, including floral, fruity, honeyed, and clean aromas, allowing you to experience the flavors of best oolong tea. For beginners and enthusiasts alike, iTeaworld's basic version of the Oolong Tea Sampler is highly suitable. For seasoned tea aficionados, iTeaworld's advanced version of the Oolong Tea Sampler is an excellent choice. Black Tea Sampler - Rich, Bold, and Refreshing Black tea is fully fermented tea, characterized by its red liquor and leaves. Black tea resembles a ripe fruit, warm and sweet. It offers a strong, bold, and refreshing taste with a bright red color, indicative of its high concentration of soluble substances and excellent quality. The aroma of black tea is primarily floral with sweetness, followed by a complex blend of fruity and honeyed aromas. id you know that the earliest black tea originated in China? iTeaworld's Black Tea Sampler takes you on a journey to explore the flavors of both the oldest and youngest black teas from China. Whether you prefer smoky or robust flavors, you can find your favorite black tea here. Jasmine Tea Sampler - Fresh and Fragrant Jasmine tea is a unique category of Chinese tea, combining the freshness of green tea with the aroma of jasmine flowers. Chinese jasmine tea is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. The most essential technique involves allowing dried tea leaves to absorb the fragrance of fresh jasmine flowers, resulting in jasmine tea with a fresh and lively aroma. iTeaworld's Chinese Jasmine Tea sampler includes a selection of jasmine teas with different numbers of scenting sessions, allowing you to experience the pinnacle of jasmine tea craftsmanship through one box. Chinese Tea Spectrum - A Classic Choice If you're still unsure about what type of tea you enjoy, it's well worth exploring the Chinese Tea Sampler offered by iTeaworld. Chinese tea can be divided into six main categories: green tea, white tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, black tea, and dark tea. These teas undergo different processing techniques, varying in fermentation levels, resulting in distinct colors and flavors. iTeaworld's Chinese Tea Spectrum features one of the most representative and classic teas from each of the six categories. With just one box, you can experience the flavor characteristics of different types of Chinese tea. The Chinese Tea Spectrum also can be excellent tea gift sets, offering health and deliciousness to family and friends. Cold Brew Tea Sampler - Gentle and Sweet If you enjoy teas with a sweeter and cooler sensation, then iTeaworld's Cold Brew Tea Sampler will surely delight you. The Cold Brew Tea Sampler from iTeaworld features four teas renowned for their fragrance: Jasmine Green Tea, Jasmine Black Tea, Rose Black Tea, and Phoenix Dancong. Compared to hot tea, cold brew tea offers a cooler and sweeter taste, with a unique flavor profile and a fragrant infusion. When sipping cold brew tea, the impact of tea aroma isn't as strong initially, but it leaves a lingering aftertaste, gradually filling the palate with tea essence, creating a memorable experience. In this article, we've introduced a series of the best loose leaf tea sampler under $50, ranging from green tea to black tea, and from oolong tea to floral tea. iTeaworld loose leaf tea aims to provide a diverse selection, helping you discover the best Chinese teas that suit your preferences. With these samplers, you can easily explore and taste various flavors and styles of tea, enriching your tea journey. Whether you're a novice or a tea enthusiast, we believe these samplers will bring you surprises and satisfaction. Thank you for reading, and we hope you enjoy this tea journey and find your favorite varieties among iTeaworld's teas.

Key Points to Make Oolong Tea Taste Better! Good tea, good water, and good tea ware are needed. "Water is the mother of tea, and the vessel is the father of tea." In addition to good Chinese tea, good water and tea ware are equally essential. Only in this way can the charm of loose leaf Oolong tea be fully expressed. It is best to use purified water or mineral water, and if not available, filtered tap water is acceptable. For tea ware, "Yixing pottery" (pottery from Yixing and porcelain from Jingdezhen) is preferred. Pay attention to the shape of the teapot and the amount of tea leaves. Select the shape of the teapot and the capacity of the teapot according to the number of people drinking tea to determine the amount of loose leaf Oolong tea to be used. There are many types of loose leaf Oolong tea, so it is recommended to discover the best loose leaf tea for oneself through a loose leaf tea sampler. If the loose leaf Oolong tea is relatively loose, such as Fenghuang Dancong, then the amount of tea should fill about half of the teapot. If the tea leaves are tightly rolled into semi-ball shapes, then the amount should fill about one-third to one-fourth of the teapot's capacity. Water Temperature Requirements Due to the presence of certain special aromatic substances in loose leaf Oolong tea, they need high temperatures to fully develop. Therefore, it is necessary to use hot water (95-100 degrees Celsius) for brewing. However, not all loose leaf teas with obvious aromas require high-temperature brewing. Some loose leaf flower teas, such as Chinese jasmine tea, are more suitable for brewing with slightly milder water temperatures. Brewing Time Loose leaf Oolong tea should not be steeped for too long; generally, steeping for about ten seconds is sufficient. After brewing three to four times, the steeping time can be extended slightly. Number of Brews For most loose leaf tea, the majority of the substances within the tea leaves are extracted by the first brewing. By the third brew, most of the substances are generally completely extracted, so the tea leaves are usually changed after three brews. However, for loose leaf Oolong tea, especially for teas with high durability such as TieGuanyin, they can be brewed for 4-5 times. High-quality varieties can be brewed for more than six times. Therefore, there is a saying that loose leaf Oolong tea has "more than seven brews with lingering fragrance." Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> What Should You Pay Attention to When Drinking Oolong Tea? Avoid drinking loose leaf Oolong tea on an empty stomach: Because loose leaf Oolong tea contains a certain amount of caffeine and theine, drinking it on an empty stomach can stimulate the digestive tract strongly, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. It is not advisable to drink cold Oolong tea: Warm Oolong tea can make you feel refreshed and revitalized. Cold Oolong tea can cause side effects such as cold dampness and increased phlegm. Avoid steeping loose leaf Oolong tea for too long: The steeping time of loose leaf Oolong tea is crucial. If steeped for too long, the tea polyphenols, lipids, aromatic components, etc., in the tea leaves will oxidize automatically, diminishing their enjoyment value. The oxidation-reduction of vitamin C, vitamin P, and amino acids in the tea leaves greatly reduces the nutritional value of the tea soup. What are the health benefits of Oolong tea? Loose leaf Oolong tea not only tastes delicious but also offers many excellent health benefits. Therefore, loose leaf Oolong teas can be very healthy tea gift sets to give to family and friends. Mental alertness and refreshing effects The caffeine in loose leaf Oolong tea can stimulate the central nervous system, enhance the excitement process of the cerebral cortex, and have the effect of refreshing the mind and clearing the heart. Diuretic and fatigue-relieving effects The caffeine in loose leaf Oolong tea can stimulate the kidneys, promote the rapid excretion of urine, increase the filtration rate of the kidneys, and reduce the retention time of harmful substances in the kidneys. Caffeine can also eliminate excess lactic acid in urine, helping the body to eliminate fatigue as quickly as possible. Slowing Down Aging Loose leaf Oolong tea contains a high level of tea polyphenols. Tea polyphenols possess strong antioxidant and physiological activities, serving as scavengers for free radicals in the human body. Studies conducted by relevant authorities have shown that the efficacy of 1 milligram of tea polyphenols in eliminating excess free radicals harmful to the human body is equivalent to 9 micrograms of superoxide dismutase (SOD), significantly higher than other similar substances. Therefore, Oolong tea has a good antioxidative effect and can help delay aging. Inhibiting Cardiovascular Diseases The tea polyphenols in loose leaf Oolong tea play an important role in human fat metabolism. High levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body lead to fat deposition in the blood vessel walls, proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, leading to cardiovascular diseases. Tea polyphenols, especially catechins such as ECG and EGC, and their oxidation product, theaflavins, help inhibit the formation of these proliferative plaques, reduce the elevation of fibrinogen, which enhances blood coagulability, and promote antithrombotic effects, thereby inhibiting atherosclerosis. Loose leaf Oolong tea is not only healthy but also delicious. Tasting Oolong tea requires a quiet mind, savoring each sip slowly. This way of drinking can better appreciate the unique characteristics brought by the different flavors and aromas of Oolong tea. Through careful tasting, one can discern the liveliness, sweetness, charm, and aroma in each brew of Oolong tea, which is also a great pleasure.

If you are just starting out with tea, a tea sampler that is low-cost and can taste a variety of teas at once is the best choice. Because there are many varieties of each category of tea, for example, black tea has souchong black tea, Yingde black tea, etc. Oolong tea has fenghuang dancong, Dahongpao and other varieties. Each variety has a different taste. When you are new to tea, you may get lost in the multiple varieties not knowing how to choose. If you don't choose a tea sampler, you will need to buy a large volume of tea in case you don't like to drink it, then you will be wasting your money with the tea! Characteristics of Beginner-Friendly Loose Leaf Teas Beginner-friendly loose leaf teas typically possess the following characteristics, making them an ideal choice for newcomers venturing into the world of tea. Mild Flavor Profile: Beginner-friendly loose leaf teas generally have flavors that are not too intense or overly complex, offering a balanced and easily palatable taste. Slight Bitterness: These loose leaf teas exhibit a mild bitterness that is not overpowering, thus avoiding discomfort for beginners. Freshness or Floral Aroma: Beginners often find it easier to appreciate loose leaf teas with fresh or floral aromas, as the fragrances emitted by these teas tend to evoke feelings of pleasure and relaxation. Lower Caffeine Content: Beginners may be more sensitive to caffeine, thus loose leaf teas with lower caffeine content are more suitable for them. Easy Brewing: Loose leaf teas that are easy to brew are more friendly to beginners, meaning that even with less mature brewing skills, a good cup of tea can be easily brewed. Gentle Physical Effects: Teas suitable for beginners typically do not cause excessive stimulation to the body, such as over-excitement or difficulty sleeping. Tea Sampler Recommendations for Sweetness-Friendly Teas Recommended tea sampler: Black Tea Sampler, Green Tea Sampler. Loose leaf black tea offers a comfortable aroma and sweetness. With its mild flavor and full-bodied texture, loose leaf black tea is often the preferred choice for many tea beginners. A Black Tea Sampler that includes a variety of classic Chinese black teas is an excellent option. Loose leaf green tea tends to have a light, mellow, and delightful flavor, making it a great starting point for newcomers. With a wide range of green tea varieties in China, beginners may feel a bit bewildered at the outset. However, a Green Tea Sampler can provide a fantastic introduction, allowing everyone to effortlessly experience the delightful flavors of various loose leaf green teas. Tea Sampler Recommendations for Aroma-Friendly Teas Recommended tea sampler: Oolong Tea Sampler, Jasmine Tea Sampler Loose leaf oolong tea is known for its mild nature, lingering aroma, and smooth, refreshing taste, making it one of the favorite tea varieties among people in southern China. Among them, Wuyi rock tea from northern Fujian province is the most famous. In addition to the well-known loose leaf oolong teas from northern Fujian, there are also oolong teas produced in southern Fujian and Guangdong provinces. A Oolong Tea Sampler that includes representative oolong teas from different regions is a valuable starting point for beginners on their tea journey. Chinese flower tea is a distinct category separate from the six major types of Chinese tea. It combines the aroma of loose leaf tea with floral notes, offering a sweet and fragrant taste ideal for those who enjoy floral scents. For tea enthusiasts looking to explore, starting with the classic jasmine tea is recommended. Jasmine tea comes in many varieties and types, and trying a Chinese Jasmine Tea sampler can help discover the best loose leaf tea that suits individual preferences. Tea Sampler Recommendations for Brewing-Friendly Teas Recommended tea sampler: Green Tea Sampler, White Tea Sampler, Black Tea Sampler Among the various types of Chinese teas, loose leaf green tea, loose leaf white tea, and loose leaf black tea are relatively easy to brew, and they don't require high-end tea brewing equipment. These teas can be brewed well using more professional tea brewing tools such as a Gaiwan or a Gongfu teacup. Even without specialized tea brewing tools, they can still yield a good taste. On the other hand, loose leaf oolong tea and loose leaf black tea in China require higher standards for brewing equipment and techniques. If not brewed properly, these two types of teas may fail to bring out their desired flavors. Therefore, for those who are not familiar with tea brewing or prefer simpler brewing methods, loose leaf oolong tea and loose leaf black tea may not be the best choice. Tea Sampler Recommendations for Low Caffeine Teas Recommended tea sampler: Green Tea Sampler, White Tea Sampler Many tea enthusiasts who have been drinking coffee for years are now becoming interested in tea, particularly in finding beverages with low caffeine content. Generally, the caffeine content in a cup of tea is much lower than that in a cup of coffee, but the caffeine content varies among different types of teas. Typically, loose leaf tea with lower levels of oxidation has lower caffeine content. Therefore, for those seeking low caffeine tea options, trying a green tea sampler or a white tea sampler would be worth exploring. Additionally, low caffeine tea samplers also make excellent choices as healthy tea gift sets for family and friends who are sensitive to caffeine. Experienced tea enthusiasts often have their preferred types of loose leaf teas and their own set of rules for selecting teas, usually based on personal taste preferences, physical condition, and the characteristics of the teas. The principles for selecting loose leaf teas are similar for beginner tea enthusiasts; they choose teas based on their preferences. Understanding some knowledge about different types of teas can be very helpful in this process. Hopefully, this article can assist everyone in selecting teas that suit their preferences.

Tea enthusiasts will know about loose leaf oolong tea. This tea is renowned for its delicious aroma and flavor, as well as its various health benefits such as reducing blood lipids, cholesterol, aiding digestion, and weight loss. Loose leaf oolong teas are excellent choice for gifting to family and friends as healthy and delicious tea gift sets. To fully enjoy the delicious taste of loose leaf oolong tea, having good quality tea is not enough. The brewing method of loose leaf oolong tea largely determines the deliciousness of the tea soup. Below are some key points shared to help novice tea drinkers understand how to better enjoy oolong tea. Five Tips for Beginners Drinking Oolong Tea Use Small Cups Loose leaf oolong tea originated from Fujian, where the locals have a strong preference for it. Local residents believe that tasting loose leaf oolong tea is not just about quenching thirst; they see it as an artistic expression that integrates mind and soul. They enjoy savoring loose leaf oolong tea slowly using small cups. Employ Traditional Brewing Methods Fujian residents still adhere to traditional methods when brewing loose leaf oolong tea. Before steeping the tea, they rinse the teapot, tea tray, and teacups with freshly boiled water. During the brewing process, they continuously sip while steeping to maintain cleanliness and ensure the tea remains at an optimal temperature. Time it Right To savor the delicious taste of loose leaf oolong tea, it's essential to control the brewing time. Generally, steeping for just a dozen seconds is sufficient, although subsequent infusions may require slightly longer steeping times. Brewing for too long will result in the loss of the fresh flavor of loose leaf oolong tea. Learn to Smell the Tea When tasting oolong tea loose leaf, it's important to learn to smell it. Start by slowly moving the tea cup from the front of your nose towards your mouth. While it's still hot, smell its aroma. You'll feel the fragrance gradually entering your mouth, throat, and lungs. Remember not to place the tea cup too close to your nose while smelling; instead, slowly move it from far to near, and then from near to far, repeating this process three or four times. There are many different aromas of loose leaf oolong tea. It's recommended to discover the best oolong tea for yourself by trying a tea sampler. Savor Slowly After smelling the aroma, you can now taste it. Take a sip and hold it in your mouth before slowly swallowing. Savor it slowly; you'll feel a sweet and refreshing taste filling your mouth, leaving a lingering aroma. It can also help to refresh your senses and bring a sense of tranquility, like stepping into a fairyland. Find more loose leaf oolong tea with our Oolong Tea Sampler.>>> Brewing Method for Oolong Tea Begin by rinsing the tea utensils with boiling water. When brewing the tea, slowly pour hot water into the teapot from a higher position. The water temperature should ideally be between 95-100 degrees Celsius. Cover the teapot with its lid and pour boiling water over it. This helps to maintain the aroma by keeping the tea at a high temperature. Let it steep for about a dozen seconds during this process. Pour the tea from the teapot into a fairness cup, then distribute it into smaller tasting cups. Oolong tea should be tasted while hot, with moderate consumption. As you drink, continue to savor the aroma. Understanding the Classification of Oolong Tea Loose leaf oolong tea is classified by region into: Northern Fujian Oolong, Southern Fujian Oolong, Guangdong Oolong, and Taiwanese Oolong. Northern Fujian Oolong is best represented by the "Rock Tea" produced in Wuyi Mountain. Apart from Da Hong Pao, there are also multiple varieties such as Rou Gui, Shui Xian, Tie Luo Han, and Shui Jin Gui. The famous TieGuanyin belongs to Southern Fujian Oolong. Additionally, Southern Fujian Oolong includes other varieties like Baiya Qilan, Yongchun Foshou, and Zhangping Shuixian, which are relatively affordable. Guangdong Oolong is represented by Fenghuang Dancong, produced in Fenghuang Town, Chaozhou, Guangdong, with the best coming from Wudong Mountain. Taiwanese Oolong has a graceful aroma and a honey-green soup color, making it very popular among women and young tea drinkers. Famous varieties include Oriental Beauty and Dong Ding Oolong. Craftsmanship of Oolong Tea The production process of oolong loose leaf tea is highly intricate, involving Weidiao(withering), Zuoqing (shaking and resting), Shaqing (killing the green), Rounian (rolling), and drying. Northern Fujian Oolong and Guangdong's Fenghuang Dancong undergo heavy sun withering and shaking, resulting in a high degree of oxidation and a strip-like appearance. On the other hand, Southern Fujian Oolong and Taiwanese Oolong emphasize rolling, resulting in a lower level of oxidation and a more spherical shape. The Greatest Characteristic of Oolong Tea—Its Aroma The most prominent characteristic of loose oolong tea is its aroma. Some oolong teas, such as Fenghuang Dancong, are renowned for their high fragrance and are considered among the best loose leaf tea. So how is the aroma of loose leaf oolong tea formed? It mainly stems from the core production process of oolong tea, which is Zuoqing (shaking and resting). This process is unique to oolong tea and is not found in other types of loose leaf tea. Zuoqing (shaking and resting) involves a series of alternating shaking and resting processes, during which polyphenolic substances oxidize and reduce, continuously forming aromatic compounds. In simple terms, water runs off the surface of the fresh leaves, while a series of actions encourage the flow of water from the stem to the leaf, maintaining the efficient functioning of enzymes within the cells. Loose leaf oolong tea is a type of tea with a unique taste and a delightful aroma. If you haven't tried loose leaf oolong tea yet, it's worth giving it a try—I believe you'll fall in love with it too!

There are many different types of Chinese tea, with one common classification being the division into six major categories. Additionally, there is the special category of flower tea. Understanding the characteristics of different categories of Chinese tea, along with considering the selection criteria below, can help you better choose a loose leaf tea sampler for your loved one. Choose Based on Taste The taste of different types of tea varies significantly. It can be said that the taste of a particular tea, such as Pu'er tea, is loved by enthusiasts who may miss it if they go a day without drinking it, while those who dislike it wouldn't touch it. In general, the best loose leaf tea for each person varies. Therefore, understanding the taste characteristics of different categories of tea and selecting a corresponding loose tea sampler based on your loved one's taste preferences generally ensures a good choice! Loose Leaf Green Tea: Green leaves with a clear soup. It has a clean, fragrant, mellow, and refreshing taste. Loose Leaf White Tea: White with hints of green, with a yellowish-white soup color. It is fresh, mellow, and sweet. Loose Leaf Yellow Tea: Yellow leaves with a yellow soup, bright golden color. It has a sweet, fragrant, and mellow taste. Loose Leaf Oolong Tea: Green with golden yellow. It has a clear, fragrant, and mellow taste. Loose Leaf Black Tea: High aroma, vibrant color, and rich flavor, with red leaves and red soup. It is thick, rich, and mellow. Loose Leaf Dark Tea: Coarse black-brown color. It has a rich, aged, and mellow taste. Loose Leaf Flower Tea: Various types, each with its own characteristics. The common feature is the strong fragrance. For example, if your loved one enjoys fragrant tea, a box of Chinese Jasmine Tea would make him/her very happy. If he/she prefers a rich taste, then a Black Tea Sampler would be an excellent choice. Choose Based Oxidation Level The division of the six major categories of tea is based on the different levels of oxidation during processing. The degree of oxidation affects both the taste and the efficacy of the tea. That's why understanding the oxidation levels of different loose leaf tea can help you better choose the right tea for your loved one. Teas with higher levels of oxidation have milder properties. For example, loose leaf black tea and loose leaf dark tea are suitable for people with weaker stomachs. Conversely, teas that are Unoxidized or lightly oxidized have cooler properties, suitable for clearing heat and dryness, but should be consumed in moderation by those with weaker digestive systems. The oxidation levels of the six major categories of tea, from low to high, are as follows: Loose Leaf Green Tea → Loose Leaf White Tea → Loose Leaf Yellow Tea → Loose Leaf Oolong Tea → Loose Leaf Black Tea → Loose Leaf Dark Tea The oxidation level of loose leaf flower tea is determined by the dry tea used to make the flower tea. For example, if the dry tea used to make a loose leaf jasmine tea is green tea, then the caffeine content of this jasmine flower tea is the same as that of loose leaf green tea, which is relatively low. Choose Based on Efficacy Due to the unique production processes of the six major categories of tea, each has different efficacy. For example, if your loved one values antioxidant effects, then loose leaf green tea samplers would make fantastic tea gift sets. Efficacy of Loose Leaf Green Tea: Loose leaf green tea is an unfermented tea with the highest content of catechins. It has a slightly cool nature, a mild bitterness, and a sweet aftertaste. Loose leaf green tea has excellent antioxidant effects, clears heat, and refreshes the mind. It is not suitable for those with weak digestive systems. Efficacy of Loose Leaf White Tea: Loose leaf white tea is a lightly fermented tea with a cool nature. It has a light flavor and a sweet aftertaste. Rich in tea polysaccharides, it is suitable for those with a need to reduce sugar intake. Efficacy of Loose Leaf Yellow Tea: Loose leaf yellow tea is lightly fermented, with a refreshing and mellow taste. It is rich in catechins, refreshing the mind and aiding digestion. Efficacy of Loose Leaf Oolong Tea: Loose leaf oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea with properties between green tea and black tea. It has the efficacy of refreshing the mind but should not be consumed on an empty stomach. Efficacy of Loose Leaf Black Tea: Loose leaf black tea has a warm and gentle nature without irritation. It has a sweet and mellow taste, regulating digestive function and suitable for those with digestive issues. Efficacy of Loose Leaf Dark Tea: Loose leaf dark tea is characterized by its red, strong, aged, and mellow qualities. It belongs to the post-fermented tea category, mainly relying on microbial fermentation. It improves intestinal environment and regulates fat metabolism. Efficacy of Loose Leaf Flower Tea: Loose leaf flower tea comes in various types, each with varying efficacy. In general, flower tea has a fragrant aroma and offers aromatic healing effects. Find more Chinese loose leaf tea with our Chinese Tea Sampler.>>> Other Things You Need to Know: How to Store Different types of tea have different characteristics, so there are certain differences in storage methods. Generally, the principles of storing loose leaf tea are: dryness, avoiding light, and sealing. Loose leaf green tea and loose leaf yellow tea should be sealed and stored in the refrigerator. Loose leaf white tea and loose leaf oolong tea are suitable for sealed storage at room temperature. If certain types are not consumed for a long time, refrigeration is suitable. Loose leaf black tea should be stored sealed at room temperature, ensuring moisture is avoided. Loose leaf dark tea should be stored at room temperature, in a cool, ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight. Loose leaf flower tea should be stored at room temperature, avoiding moisture, in a cool, dry place, free from odors.