The Art of Longjing tea: A Comprehensive Guide to Chinas Most Famous Green Tea

History of Longjing Tea

Longjing tea has a long and rich history that dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). According to legend,during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty (1735-1796 AD),a monk discovered a well with water that had a unique taste. He then used the water to brew tea and discovered that the tea had a special flavor. This tea became known as Dragon Well tea,and it was soon prized by tea lovers throughout China.

Today,Longjing tea is still grown and produced in the Hangzhou area using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations. The tea is made by picking the young leaves and buds of the tea plant,then withering,drying,and roasting them to bring out their unique flavor and aroma.

Characteristics of Longjing Tea

• Flat and narrow tea leaves that are a vibrant shade of green
• A delicate aroma that is reminiscent of chestnuts or orchids
• A sweet and mellow taste that is slightly nutty or vegetal
• A smooth and refreshing finish that lingers on the palate

These characteristics make Longjing tea a favorite among tea lovers who appreciate the subtle nuances of a high-quality green tea. It is also a versatile tea that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods,including seafood,vegetables,and desserts.

How to Brew Longjing Tea

To brew Longjing tea,you will need a teapot,tea cups,and a kettle. Here are the steps:

1. Boil water and let it cool to around 80°C.
2. Put 2-3g of tea leaves into the teapot.
3. Pour the hot water into the teapot and let it steep for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour the tea into the cups and enjoy.

It is important to remember not to use boiling water,as this can damage the delicate flavor of the tea. Also,Longjing tea leaves can be steeped multiple times,so you can enjoy several cups from the same leaves.

Where to Buy Longjing Tea

If you are interested in trying Longjing tea for yourself,there are many places where you can buy it. In Hangzhou,you can visit the local tea markets or shops near West Lake and Dragon Well Village. You can also find Longjing tea for sale online from reputable tea merchants.

When buying Longjing tea,look for tea that is fresh,fragrant,and has an even color. High-quality Longjing tea can be expensive,but it is worth paying for the unique taste and aroma that it provides.