Xia Guan Tuo Tea, a kind of Puerh tea that enjoys a great reputation in the tea world, is not only popular for its unique shape and rich flavor, but also regarded as a treasure by tea lovers for its long history and exquisite production techniques. Today, we will delve into the types and characteristics of Xianguan Tuocha as well as the story behind it.
What kind of tea does Shimonoseki Tuocha belong to?
Xia Guan Tuo Tea belongs to one kind of Puerh Tea. Puerh tea is a kind of post-fermented tea. Its production process and storage method make it change during the aging process, and the quality of the tea broth and tea leaves will gradually improve with time. Xianguan Tuocha is known for its tight tuo shape, unique flavor and aged aroma, and is one of the classic representatives of the Puerh tea family.
History of Shimonoseki Tuocha
Xianguan Tuocha originated in Xianguan Town, Dali City, Yunnan Province. As early as 1902, Xianguan Tea Factory started to produce Tuocha, a tea named for its cone-like shape and flat bottom. The Xianguan Tea Factory has a long history and is one of the oldest tea factories in Yunnan Province. After years of development, Xianguan Tuocha has gradually become a highly respected tea among Puerh teas.
Production process
The production process of Xianguan Tuocha is very unique and complex. First of all, fresh Yunnan large-leaf tea leaves are picked and then made into gross tea through a series of processes such as spreading, killing, kneading and drying. Next, these gross teas are steamed and softened, pressed into tuo shape, then dried and aged. This process requires not only strict process control, but also a wealth of experience and skill to ensure the quality and taste of each Xianguan Tuocha.
Types of Shimonoseki Tuocha
Shimonoseki Tuocha is mainly divided into two kinds of tea: raw tea and ripe tea:
- raw teaRaw tea is not artificially fermented, the tea leaves maintain more natural active ingredients, the tea soup is bright in color and taste, slightly bitter and astringent, but the sweetness is long-lasting, and it has a high collection value.
- mature tea: Ripe tea is processed through artificial fermentation, the tea soup has a deep red color, a mellow and smooth taste, and a unique aroma, which has the effect of warming the stomach and aiding digestion.
Characteristics of Shimonoseki Tuocha
- contour: Shimonoseki Tuocha has a firm, conical shape with a flat bottom. Its shape design is not only convenient for transportation and storage, but also conducive to the even fermentation of tea leaves during the aging process.
- fragrance: Shimonoseki Tuocha has a unique aroma, the raw tea is fresh and fragrant, while the ripe tea has a strong aged aroma.
- texture (of food)Raw tea is slightly bitter in the mouth, but quickly sweetens and refreshes the tea broth. Ripe tea is smooth in the mouth, with mellow flavor and thick soup.
- foam resistance: Shimonoseki Tuocha is resistant to brewing, after brewing for many times, the tea soup is still strong, and the flavor is different in every brew.
How to brew Shimonoseki Tuocha
Brewing Xianguan Tuocha requires attention to water temperature and time. Generally speaking, raw tea is suitable to be brewed with water of 85-90℃, while ripe tea is suitable to be brewed with water of 95-100℃. The time of each brew is controlled at 20-30 seconds, and the time is gradually extended with the increase of the number of times of brewing. This will fully stimulate the aroma and flavor of the tea.
summarize
As the treasure of Puerh tea, Xianguan Tuocha has attracted countless tea lovers with its unique production process and rich historical and cultural heritage. Whether it is the fresh and sweet raw tea or the mellow and smooth ripe tea, it can bring people a unique tea tasting experience. If you haven't tried Xianguan Tuocha yet, you might as well savor this century-old Puerh tea treasure for yourself.