When it comes to Pu Erh tea infused with citrus peel, the combination creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Xiao Qing Gan (Small Tangerine Ripe Pu Erh Tea) and Gan Pu Tea (Tangerine Ripe Pu Erh Tea) are popular, offering unique characteristics and flavors.
So, how do these two teas differ, and which one might suit you better? Let’s dive into the five key differences to help you decide.
Maturity of Raw Materials
Gan Pu Tea: This tea uses aged tangerine peels known as Chenpi (陈皮), made from fully ripened Da Hong Gan (big red tangerines) harvested from Xinhui. Only peels aged for over three years earn the title of Chenpi.
Xiao Qing Gan: This tea features green, unripe tangerine peels from young fruits. Unlike Chenpi, the peels of Xiao Qing Gan are harvested early before they ripen, giving the tea a fresh, zesty aroma.
Size of the Tea
Gan Pu Tea: The mature tangerines used in Gan Pu Tea are picked between Lidong(立冬) and Dongzhi(冬至) (late autumn to early winter). These tangerines are larger, with thick, soft, red-orange peels.
Xiao Qing Gan: The unripe tangerines for Xiao Qing Gan are picked between Liqiu(立秋) and Qiufen(秋分) (late summer to early autumn). The fruits are small, green, and compact, often half the size of their mature counterparts.
Brewing Methods
Gan Pu Tea: Due to its larger size, Gan Pu Tea is best brewed in large teapots or simmered in a tea kettle. If you prefer using a gaiwan or Yixing teapot, you’ll need to break the peel into smaller pieces before brewing.
Xiao Qing Gan: The small and portable Xiao Qing Gan can be brewed whole in a gaiwan or teapot, making it more convenient for quick, single-serving brews.
Recommended Read:
Which Best for Brewing Tea: Gaiwan, Yixing Teapot, or Glass Cup?
How to Use a Gaiwan for Brewing Perfect Chinese Tea
Flavor Profiles
Gan Pu Tea: Combining sweet Chenpi and rich ripe Pu Erh, this tea offers a mellow, sweet flavor with less acidity. It’s gentle on the stomach and delivers a warm, comforting cup.
Xiao Qing Gan: With its fresh, citrusy peel, Xiao Qing Gan has a lighter, brisk flavor. It often features subtle bitterness and a refreshing aftertaste, with hints of sweetness that emerge as you sip.
Health Benefits
Gan Pu Tea: Chenpi, with its bitter, warm properties, is known for aiding digestion and soothing the stomach. It’s great for reducing bloating, improving appetite, and relieving coughs.
Xiao Qing Gan: The green tangerine peel is slightly bitter and spicy, providing benefits like liver detoxification, breaking down fat, and reducing inflammation. However, it requires careful storage to avoid mold.
Final Thoughts
Both Xiao Qing Gan and Gan Pu Tea have their charms. Gan Pu Tea might be your perfect pick if you enjoy sweet, mellow flavors with rich Pu Erh notes. If you prefer a zesty, refreshing taste, Xiao Qing Gan is worth trying.
Whichever you choose, both teas showcase the incredible versatility of Pu Erh tea with citrus peel. Ready to explore more? Check out our collection of Pu Erh teas and find your favorite today!
It’s best to store them separately in a cool, dry place to maintain their distinct aromas.
With proper storage, Xiao Qing Gan can last up to two years, but keep an eye out for signs of mold.
For a rich flavor, try simmering it in a kettle or breaking the peel into smaller pieces for a gaiwan.
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