China is renowned for its extensive tea culture, featuring diverse tea varieties. The practice of tea drinking is deeply ingrained in daily life, permeating both professional and personal spheres. The contemporary tea house experience further amplifies the pleasure of tea consumption.
The distinctive flavors of different teas result from unique local environmental conditions, a fusion of climate and cultivation methods, and the artistry of tea production. A comprehensive understanding of various tea types enables one to discern personal preferences and select teas that cater to individual tastes.
Types of Chinese Tea
The classification of Chinese tea into 6 principal categories is determined by the degree of fermentation, the varieties of tea plants, and the geographical regions of cultivation. These categories include green tea, white tea, oolong tea, yellow tea, black tea, and dark tea.
Chinese Green Tea
Green tea stands out for its non-fermented nature, which is known for its clear, greenish infusion and refreshing, aromatic taste.
Chinese White Tea
White tea, a lightly fermented variety, is simply sun-dried, untouched by roasting or rolling. It harnesses the power of sunlight and wind to manage the tea’s moisture, creating a refreshingly smooth flavor. It’s also known for its long-term storage potential, with a popular belief in the tea community that it transforms from “one-year tea to three-year treasure and seven-year medicine.”
Chinese Oolong Tea
Oolong tea, varying in fermentation from 10% to 70% based on its production method, falls into the semi-fermented category. It boasts a crisp aroma, and a deep yet smooth taste, and is most fragrant and full-bodied in the second and third infusions. Aged oolong teas are especially prized.
Chinese Yellow Tea
Yellow tea, a lightly fermented variety, gets its distinctive quality from the “yellowing” process in production. It’s recognized by its yellow leaves and liquor, offering a smoother and more fragrant experience than green tea, with less bitterness.
Chinese Black Tea
Black tea, a fully fermented variety, is distinguished by its initial withering process. It gets its name from the rich red color of the brewed tea and leaves. Black tea is popularly used as a key ingredient in milk tea, a product that has seen wide market approval.
Chinese Dark Tea
Dark tea, a type of post-fermented tea, is distinguished by its pile fermentation process. This feature allows dark tea to be stored for extended periods. Take Ripe Pu Erh Tea, for instance, a variety of dark tea that gains considerable value over time, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Chinese tea culture is wonderfully varied, with each of the 6 types of tea boasting distinct flavors and attributes. This article aims to enhance your understanding of Chinese tea, helping you discover the perfect brew for your palate.
When selecting tea, take into account your taste preferences, drink it in moderation, and relish the allure of Chinese tea culture.
We will keep updating you with detailed insights into each type of tea, helping you gain a deeper understanding of Chinese tea.
