Green Tea and Dragon Well Tea - A Perfect Combination of Tradition and Modernity
Green tea production process and historical background
c, which maintains the natural colour, aroma and rich nutrients of the tea leaves through a unique process. Green tea occupies an important place in both traditional Chinese culture and the global tea market.
The production of green tea begins with the plucking of the leaves, followed by the key steps of greening, kneading and drying. Killing is the first step in the production of green tea, a process that heats the tea leaves to prevent oxidation by blocking enzyme activity, thus maintaining the bright green colour of the tea leaves. The next step, kneading, physically breaks down the cell walls of the tea leaves, releasing the tea juice and enhancing the aroma and flavour of the tea. Finally, the drying process controls the moisture of the tea leaves within reasonable limits to ensure its long-term preservation and to avoid mould or spoilage.
In China, the history of green tea can be traced back to 2737 BC, when legend has it that Shen Nong stumbled upon the miraculous effects of tea. Since then, green tea has gradually integrated into Chinese life as a daily drink and medicinal plant. During the Tang and Song dynasties, China's green tea production techniques matured and tea culture flourished. Today, green tea has become one of the most popular teas around the world, loved by tea lovers from all over the world.
Uniqueness and Regional Advantages of Longjing Tea
Among the many types of green tea, Longjing tea is undoubtedly one of the most famous and respected. Longjing tea is produced in the West Lake area of Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, and is best known as the ‘West Lake Longjing’. The history of Longjing tea can be traced back to the Song Dynasty, 1000 years ago, when it was favoured by court nobles and literati. The name ‘Longjing’ comes from a famous ancient well in the area, which is said to be guarded by a dragon, hence its name.
The uniqueness of Longjing tea lies not only in its long history, but also in its exquisite craftsmanship and superior natural environment. The West Lake area of Hangzhou has a mild climate with four distinct seasons, moderate average annual temperatures, abundant rainfall, and soil rich in organic matter, especially in the core production area of West Lake Longjing, where its slightly acidic soil and humid climate in the valleys provide excellent conditions for the growth of tea trees. Growing in such an environment, the tender buds of Longjing tea trees are rich in amino acids, tea polyphenols and aromatic substances, thus contributing to the unique flavour of Longjing tea.
Compared with other green teas, the production process of Longjing tea is more elaborate. Fresh buds of one bud and one leaf or one bud and two leaves are hand-picked and hand-fried. During the frying process, the tea growers need to master the fire with their experience, and through stir-frying, the tea leaves are shaped and release their aroma. This handmade process not only preserves the natural nutrients of the tea leaves, but also allows Longjing tea to achieve a unique balance of aroma, taste and colour.
Flavour Characteristics and Tasting Methods of Longjing Tea
Longjing tea is known for its unique flavour, especially its fresh and light bean aroma with a hint of grass, making it a treasure among teas. When drinking Longjing tea, the tea broth is refreshingly sweet in the mouth, followed by a slight sweetness at the tip of the tongue, giving people a light and mellow enjoyment. This unique flavour makes Longjing tea stand out in the green tea family and become the first choice of many tea lovers.
When tasting Longjing tea, the temperature of the water used to brew the tea, the ratio of tea to water, and the steeping time are key factors that affect the flavour. Firstly, it is recommended to use hot water of 80 to 85 degrees Celsius to brew Longjing tea, as too high a water temperature will destroy the aromatic substances and nutrients in the tea and make the tea broth bitter and astringent. Secondly, the ratio of tea leaves to water should be maintained at about 1:50, i.e. each time you brew about 3 grams of Longjing tea leaves, add about 150 ml of water. The brewing time should also be strictly controlled at 1 to 2 minutes, so as to ensure that the tea broth is clear and the taste is fresh.
The tea broth of Longjing tea is clear and bright, with a light yellow-green colour that is pleasing to the eye. It is recommended to use a transparent glass cup to brew the tea, so that you can not only clearly observe the tea leaves slowly spreading in the water, but also appreciate the beautiful colours of the tea broth. When sipping, it is recommended to sip gently and savour the sweetness and aroma of the tea broth to experience the unique experience that Longjing tea brings.
Health Benefits and Suitable People of Longjing Tea
Longjing tea is not only a tasty drink for the tongue, but also a nutritious health food. Research shows that Longjing tea is rich in catechins, tea polyphenols, vitamin C and other antioxidants. These antioxidants are able to neutralise free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress and slow down the ageing process. In addition, Longjing tea has the ability to lower cholesterol, improve blood circulation and enhance immunity, making it ideal for modern people to consume on a daily basis.
For those concerned with weight management, Longjing tea is an ideal choice. Because Longjing tea boosts metabolism, accelerates fat burning and aids in weight loss, many fitness enthusiasts make it part of their daily tea routine. At the same time, Longjing tea is low in caffeine and does not cause nervousness like espresso, so it is safe to drink even for white-collar workers who need a pick-me-up.
In addition, Longjing tea also has the effect of aiding digestion, clearing the liver and brightening the eyes. It is especially suitable for drinking after meals to help digest food and relieve the feeling of greasiness. For people with more sensitive gastrointestinal tract, moderate consumption of Longjing tea can help improve digestion and reduce stomach discomfort.
Dragon Well Tea and Modern Life
With the growing concern for healthy eating, the status of tea culture in modern life has also been enhanced. With its rich health benefits and unique taste, green tea, especially Longjing tea, is gradually becoming a must-have drink in many people's daily lives. More and more young people are beginning to realise the value of Longjing tea, not only for its long cultural heritage, but also for the health benefits it brings.
With the development of technology, the introduction of modern tea equipment has also made tea brewing more convenient. The introduction of smart tea-making equipment has made it easy for those unfamiliar with traditional tea-making methods to enjoy a cup of high-quality Longjing tea. In addition, the innovative mixing and matching of Longjing tea with other beverages, such as Longjing Tea Latte, Longjing Fruit Tea and other creative beverages, has attracted more young consumers. These innovative drinks not only retain the fresh taste of Longjing tea, but also give it a modern and fashionable flavour.
Future Prospects: Tea Culture Inheritance and Innovation
With the spread of tea culture around the world, the market demand for green tea, especially Longjing tea, continues to grow. In the future, the heritage and innovation of tea culture will be more integrated. We will see more innovative tea products entering the market to meet the needs of different consumers. In addition, combined with the concept of environmental protection and sustainable development, the rise of green organic tea plantations will also become a trend, ensuring the quality of tea and ecological balance.
In conclusion, Longjing tea is not only a kind of tea, but also a symbol of traditional Chinese culture. It has taken on a new lease of life in the modern world through its unique flavour and rich health benefits. In the future, as the global tea culture spreads further, Longjing tea will continue to lead the way and become a healthy companion in more people's lives.The tea broth of Longjing tea is clear and bright, with a light yellow-green colour that is pleasing to the eye. It is recommended to use a transparent glass cup to brew the tea, so that you can not only clearly observe the tea leaves slowly spreading in the water, but also appreciate the beautiful colours of the tea broth. When sipping, it is recommended to sip gently and savour the sweetness and aroma of the tea broth to experience the unique experience that Longjing tea brings.
Health Benefits and Suitable People of Longjing Tea
Longjing tea is not only a tasty drink for the tongue, but also a nutritious health food. Research shows that Longjing tea is rich in catechins, tea polyphenols, vitamin C and other antioxidants. These antioxidants are able to neutralise free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress and slow down the ageing process. In addition, Longjing tea has the ability to lower cholesterol, improve blood circulation and enhance immunity, making it ideal for modern people to consume on a daily basis.
For those concerned with weight management, Longjing tea is an ideal choice. Because Longjing tea boosts metabolism, accelerates fat burning and aids in weight loss, many fitness enthusiasts make it part of their daily tea routine. At the same time, Longjing tea is low in caffeine and does not cause nervousness like espresso, so it is safe to drink even for white-collar workers who need a pick-me-up.
In addition, Longjing tea also has the effect of aiding digestion, clearing the liver and brightening the eyes. It is especially suitable for drinking after meals to help digest food and relieve the feeling of greasiness. For people with more sensitive gastrointestinal tract, moderate consumption of Longjing tea can help improve digestion and reduce stomach discomfort.
Dragon Well Tea and Modern Life
With the growing concern for healthy eating, the status of tea culture in modern life has also been enhanced. With its rich health benefits and unique taste, green tea, especially Longjing tea, is gradually becoming a must-have drink in many people's daily lives. More and more young people are beginning to realise the value of Longjing tea, not only for its long cultural heritage, but also for the health benefits it brings.
With the development of technology, the introduction of modern tea equipment has also made tea brewing more convenient. The introduction of smart tea-making equipment has made it easy for those unfamiliar with traditional tea-making methods to enjoy a cup of high-quality Longjing tea. In addition, the innovative mixing and matching of Longjing tea with other beverages, such as Longjing Tea Latte, Longjing Fruit Tea and other creative beverages, has attracted more young consumers. These innovative drinks not only retain the fresh taste of Longjing tea, but also give it a modern and fashionable flavour.
Future Prospects: Tea Culture Inheritance and Innovation
With the spread of tea culture around the world, the market demand for green tea, especially Longjing tea, continues to grow. In the future, the heritage and innovation of tea culture will be more integrated. We will see more innovative tea products entering the market to meet the needs of different consumers. In addition, combined with the concept of environmental protection and sustainable development, the rise of green organic tea plantations will also become a trend, ensuring the quality of tea and ecological balance.
In conclusion, Longjing tea is not only a kind of tea, but also a symbol of traditional Chinese culture. It has taken on a new lease of life in the modern world through its unique flavour and rich health benefits. In the future, as the global tea culture spreads further, Longjing tea will continue to lead the way and become a healthy companion in more people's lives.