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Complete Guide to Chinese Tea and its History and Culture

Complete Guide to Chinese Tea and its History and Culture

Table of contents

An Overview

In this article we will delve into the rich and fascinating world of Chinese tea. We will explore the history and significance of tea in Chinese society, as well as the different types of tea and some of their most unique characteristics. We will also look at the various tea ceremonies and rituals that have been practiced within China for centuries, and the etiquette and customs that surround tea consumption.

Whether you’re a tea lover or simply curious about this fascinating aspect of Chinese culture, we hope we can provide an informative and engaging introduction to this ancient and treasured tradition.

 

The History and Cultural Significance of Tea in China

China is widely regarded as the birthplace of tea. It has the longest history of tea cultivation, production, and consumption in the world, and tea has been an integral part of Chinese society for thousands of years. Along the way, it has also played a significant role in the country’s economy, art, and philosophy.

According to legend, tea was first discovered in China over 5,000 years ago by the mythical emperor Shennong. He is said to have been sitting under a tea tree with a cup of hot water when a leaf from the tree fell into his cup. Finding the drink fragrant and delicious, he eagerly shared it with his subjects. Another legend posits that he was a keen herbalist and found tea leaves to be curative to some of the poisonous herbs and plants he consumed in search of new medicinal effects. As such, tea became an important component of traditional Chinese medicine and culture.

Over the centuries, tea cultivation and production in China became increasingly sophisticated. Different regions developed their own unique varieties and styles of tea, leading to the six main categories of tea we know today: White tea, green tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, black tea, and Puerh/dark tea. Each tea category boasts its own typical set of aromas and flavours, and some may possess potential health benefits unique from other categories.

Tea has also played a significant role in China’s economy, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The demand for tea became so great that over many centuries it led to the development of what is now known as the ancient ‘Tea Horse Road’, a trade route which connected China to India and Tibet. Tea also gradually became an important commodity for export to Europe.

 

The Importance of Tea in Chinese Society

Tea is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and has played a significant role in shaping Chinese society. In addition to being used as herbal medicine, tea has also been utilised in various social, cultural, and spiritual contexts. For example, the art of tea making and the social ritual of serving tea are highly valued within Chinese society, and the practice of sharing tea is seen as a way to build and strengthen social relationships. Tea can also be used as a symbol of respect and gratitude, and may be offered in the form of gifts to show appreciation or apology. It is a powerful symbol of Chinese culture and tradition.

 

The Different Categories and Types of Chinese Tea

China is renowned for its diverse range of high quality specialty tea, many of which – due to their unique terroirs and meticulous and often secret processing methods – display qualities and characteristics that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Unlike most other tea producing countries, China produces many types of tea under all six of the main tea categories. Let’s take a closer look at each.

White Tea

White tea is commonly known as the least processed form of tea. It is delicate and sweet, and depending on the variety usually brews up a pale golden yellow colour. Typically the leaves are withered in an open air environment immediately after picking and then dried to prevent any excess oxidation. White teas are often plucked and processed under very strict conditions, and for many, a high bud-to-leaf ratio (lots of leaf buds as opposed to more mature leaves) is preferred.

White tea is prized in China. One of the most famous forms is Silver Needle, or ‘Baihao Yinzhen’, which is composed only of buds.

Green Tea

Green tea is made by pan-frying or steaming the leaves, in a process known as ‘fixing’ or ‘kill-green’. This is done because after the leaf is plucked, it immediately begins the oxidation process – fixing the leaves deactivates the enzymes that oxidise it. If a green tea was allowed to oxidise further, it would eventually become a sort of black-style tea instead. In China, the most common fixing method is pan-frying.

Chinese green tea typically has a delicate vegetal flavour.

Yellow Tea

Yellow tea is a very rare tea type that is almost extinct. Processing is similar to that of a green tea, however the extra step of ‘yellowing’ or ‘sweltering’ the leaves is included, creating a mellower flavour and a yellowish leaf colour.

A kind of yellow tea is also produced in Korea, however the processing methods and results are very different. By Chinese definitions, the yellow tea produced in Korea is actually closer to a kind of oolong or black tea.

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is partially oxidised and can be left within a broad range of oxidation levels, from about 15 – 85% (although even this number can vary). Oolongs are split into lighter varieties (less than 50% oxidation) and darker varieties (more than 50%), and can have vastly different flavour notes as a result.

Lighter oolongs are more likely to have gentler, floral profiles, with complex notes and a light golden brew. Darker oolongs, on the other hand, are bolder, closer to black teas, and have rich profiles that may bring to mind flavours of chocolate and nut.

Black Tea

Black tea is made by withering, rolling, and oxidising the tea leaves until they are as far along in oxidation level as possible (100%). This produces a bold flavour which varies between different tea types, and they may display rich notes such as fruits, nuts, and smoke.

Puerh / Dark Tea

Although many teas are listed as “fermented”, this usually mistakenly refers to the oxidation process. However, Puerh and dark teas undergo an actual fermentation process separate to any oxidation they may receive. This involves ageing the tea for months or even years, depending on the type.

Puerh can only be sourced from Yunnan province in China, as the name is regionally marked. As such, Puerh-style tea from other regions is known as dark tea. Yunnan Puerh can fetch very high prices, especially varieties that are well-aged.

 

Green Tea

Some of the most popular Chinese green teas include:

Long Jing (Dragon Well)

Long Jing is one of the most famous green teas in china, originating from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The leaves are hand-fried in a wok using a special technique that gives them their distinctive flat shape. Long Jing is commonly touted to be particularly high in antioxidants.

Shop for Long Jing tea

Bi Luo Chun (Green Snail Spring)

Bi Luo Chun is a green tea from Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, known for its sweet aroma and delicate fruity flavour. It has a pale green colour and appears as delicate spiral-like coils unseen in other teas. When steeping this tea, it’s particularly important to make sure the tea is placed in the cup after the water to avoid damaging the leaf. Bi Luo Chun is said to be high in amino acids.

Shop for Bi Luo Chun tea

Taiping Houkui (Peaceful Monkey King)

Taiping Houkui is a green tea from Anhui Province known for its Long Jing-like flat shape, however it tends to measure longer end-to-end. The tea leaves are plucked and processed entirely by hand, which makes this tea highly labour-intensive to make.

Shop for Taiping Houkui tea

Huangshan Maofeng

Huangshan Maofeng is a green tea from Anhui Province known for its delicate floral flavour and light aroma. It has a pale green colour and is made from young, tender tea leaves. The leaves themselves undergo hand-processing to give them a slightly twisted shape.

Shop for Huangshan Maofeng tea

Lu’an Gua Pian (Lu’an Melon Seed)

Lu’an Gua Pian frequently appears in the top 3 of China’s Top 10 Famous Tea lists and is highly regarded for its sweet and delicious flavour. The aroma is delicate and sweet and the tea itself is rolled and mildly flattened.

Shop for Lu’an Gua Pian tea

Brewing Tips and Flavour Profiles

Chinese green teas offer a range of delicate and complex flavour profiles that require careful brewing to fully appreciate their unique tastes.

Chinese Green Tea Brewing Tips Flavour Profiles
Long Jing (Dragon Well) Temperature: 75 – 80°C (167 – 176°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins for the first infusion, then slightly longer for each subsequent infusion.

Long Jing has a fresh, vegetal flavour with a nutty, slightly sweet finish.

It has a smooth silky texture and a bright pale yellow-green colour.

The aroma is fresh and delicate, with a hint of chestnut and floral notes.

Bi Luo Chun (Green Snail Spring) Temperature: 75 – 80°C (167 – 176°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 1-2 mins for the first infusion, then slightly longer for each subsequent infusion.

Make sure to pour the water into the cup before adding the leaves.

Bi Luo Chun has a delicate, floral flavour with a hint of sweetness. Its texture is light and refreshing and the tea has a bright green colour.

Bi Luo Chun’s aroma is fresh and floral, with a hint of fruitiness.

Taiping Houkui (Peaceful Monkey King) Temperature: 75 – 80°C (167 – 176°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins for the first infusion, then slightly longer for each subsequent infusion.

Taiping Houkui has a fresh, vegetal flavour with a hint of nuttiness. Its texture is light and crisp, and the tea has a bright, pale green colour.

The aroma is fresh and grassy with light floral notes.

Huangshan Maofeng Temperature: 75 – 80°C (167 – 176°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins for the first infusion, then slightly longer for each subsequent infusion.

Huangshan Maofeng has a delicate floral flavour with a hint of nuttiness. Texture-wise, it is light and refreshing, and it brews up bright and yellow-green in colour.

Huangshan Maofeng’s aroma is fresh and fragrant, with a hint of orchid accented by honey notes.

Lu’an Gua Pian (Lu’an Melon Seed) Temperature: 75 – 80°C (167 – 176°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins for the first infusion, then slightly longer for each subsequent infusion.

Lu’an Gua Pian has a strong and beautifully rounded sweet taste without astringency. It is light and sweet with a hint of spice. Its fragrance hints well at this sense of fresh sweetness. The texture is smooth and the liquor yellow-green.

Tip: To fully appreciate the complex flavours of these teas, try steeping them multiple times. Each infusion can bring out different flavour and aromatic notes, allowing you to fully explore the nuance of each tea. Adjust the steeping time and water temperature for each infusion to suit your taste preferences.

 

Black Tea

Some of the most popular Chinese black teas include:

Keemun

Keemun black tea is known for its fruity floral aroma, as well as a mild smokiness. It has a reddish-brown liquor and a rich full-bodied taste that carries a hint of sweetness. Keemun is often considered “the Burgundy of black teas” and is one of the most famous black teas in China.

Shop for Keemun tea

Yunnan Black (Black Pine Needles)

Yunnan Black tea is grown in Yunnan province of China and has a distinct malty flavour with notes of chocolate and honey. It’s liquor is reddish-brown and provides a smooth, slightly sweet taste.

Shop for Yunnan Black tea

Lapsang Souchong

Lapsang Souchong is a heavily smoked black tea that is used in the popular Russian Caravan blend. It has a strong smoky flavour and aroma from its unique processing and is often described as tasting like campfire or cigar. A unique acquired taste – it’s not uncommon for people to love it or hate it.

Shop for Lapsang Souchong tea

Dian Hong (Golden Bud)

Dian Hong, also known as Yunnan Black Gold, is a high quality black tea known for its golden buds and rich flavour. It has a smooth and sweet taste with notes of honey and caramel, accented by a subtle hint of chocolate.

Shop for Dian Hong tea

Brewing Tips and Flavour Profiles

Chinese Black Tea Brewing Tips Flavour Profiles
Keemun Temperature: 95 – 100°C (200 – 212°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-5 mins according to taste.

Keemun has a rich full-bodied taste with a hint of sweetness and a mild smokiness. Its aroma is floral and fruity, and has notes of orchid and pine.
Yunnan Black Temperature: 95 – 100°C (200 – 212°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-4 mins according to taste.

Yunnan Black carries a malty flavour with notes of chocolate and honey. The liquor is reddish-brown and is smooth and slightly sweet in taste.
Lapsang Souchong Temperature: 95 – 100°C (200 – 212°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-5 mins according to taste.

Lapsang Souchong has a heavily smoked flavour profile with a strong, unmissable aroma. It’s often described as tasting like campfire or cigar.
Dian Hong Temperature: 95 – 100°C (200 – 212°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-5 mins according to taste.

Dian Hong has a smooth sweet taste with notes of honey and caramel, and a subtle hint of chocolate. The liquor is golden in colour and has a rich, full-bodied taste.

 

Oolong Tea

Some of the most popular Chinese oolong teas include:

Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy)

Also known as Iron Goddess of Mercy, Tie Guan Yin is among China’s most widespread oolong teas. It is grown in Fujian province and has a floral aroma with a delicate taste. As far as oxidation is concerned, Tie Guan Yin can vary from heavy to light, but tends to fall under the mid-range among oolongs.

Shop for Tie Guan Yin tea.

Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe)

Also known as Big Red Robe, this tea is grown in the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian province and has a complex flavour with rich notes of chocolate and caramel. It is the subject of many fables, thought to have received its name after the tea was given a red robe by the emperor as a sign of gratitude for healing his mother.

Four “true” Mother Tree Da Hong Pao bushes exist high in the Wuyi Mountains, which previously produced the world’s most expensive tea. One of their final harvests is now permanently on display in a museum in the city of Beijing – harvest is now prohibited by the Wuyi government in order to protect the trees.

Today, high quality Da Hong Pao is typically made from trees sprouted from cuttings of these four bushes.

Shop for Da Hong Pao tea

Shui Xian (Water Sprite)

Another oolong grown in the Wuyi Mountains, this tea has a rich and strong flavour while also offering a hint of spice. It is processed and tastes similarly to Da Hong Pao, but still has its own unique notes.

Shop for Shui Xian tea

Brewing Tips and Flavour Profiles
Chinese Oolong Tea Brewing Tips Flavour Profiles
Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) Temperature: 85°C (185°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-4 mins according to taste.

Delicate and floral, with notes of orchid. Has a sweet finish.
Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe) Temperature: 90°C (195°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-4 mins according to taste.

Rich and complex with notes of chocolate, caramel, and honey.
Shui Xian (Water Sprite) Temperature: 90 – 95°C (200°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 3-4 mins according to taste.

Strong and earthy, with notes of rock sugar and a hint of spice.

 

White Tea

Some of the most popular Chinese white teas include:

Baihao Yinzhen (Silver Needle)

This tea is made from young, unopened tea buds which are covered in silver-white downy hairs. It has a delicate flavour with a slightly sweet floral aroma.

Shop for Baihao Yinzhen tea

Bai Mu Dan (White Peony)

This tea is made from both young tea buds as well as leaves, which are harvested in the early spring. It has a slightly stronger flavour than Silver Needle with light, fruity aroma.

Shop for Bai Mu Dan tea

Shou Mei (Longevity Eyebrow)

This tea is made from larger, more mature leaves which are harvested later in the season. It has a deeper, earthier flavour with a slightly sweet and nutty aftertaste.

Shop for Shou Mei tea

Brewing Tips and Flavour Profiles
Chinese White Tea Brewing Tips Flavour Profiles
Baihao Yinzhen (Silver Needle) Temperature: 75°C (170°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins according to taste.

Delicate, honey-like and vegetal.
Bai Mu Dan (White Peony) Temperature: 80°C (175°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins according to taste.

Fruity, floral, and slightly sweet.
Shou Mei (Longevity Eyebrow) Temperature: 80 – 85°C (180°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 240ml (8oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 2-3 mins according to taste.

Earthy, nutty, and slightly sweet.

 

Puerh Tea

Puerh tea can be broadly separated into two main categories: Sheng Puerh and Shou Puerh.

Sheng Puerh (Raw Puerh)

Also known as “raw” or “green” Puerh, this tea is made from leaves which are picked and then sun-dried or withered before being pressed into cakes or bricks (however, loose leaf varieties do exist). The tea is left to ferment naturally over time, and while this process could be done for just a few months, it is ideally undertaken over several years to fully develop its flavour profile. Sheng Puerh has a lighter flavour than Shou Puerh and is known for its sweet floral notes.

Shop for Sheng Puerh tea

Shou Puerh (Ripe Puerh)

Also known as “ripe” or “cooked” Puerh, this tea is made using a different, faster fermentation process than Sheng Puerh. The leaves are first withered, then piled and moistened to encourage bacterial fermentation. The tea is aged like this for several months, during which time it develops a rich, earthy flavour and aroma.

Shop for Shou Puerh tea

Brewing Tips and Flavour Profiles
Puerh Tea Brewing Tips Flavour Profiles
Sheng Puerh (Raw Puerh) Temperature: 85°C (185°F).

Use about 5-7g of tea per 100ml (3.4oz) of water.

For the first steep, steep the tea for 30-45 seconds, then gradually increase brewing time and temperature on subsequent steeps according to taste.

Light, refreshing and sweet.
Shou Puerh (Ripe Puerh) Temperature: 90°C (190 – 195°F).

Use about 5-7g of tea per 100ml (3.4oz) of water.

For the first steep, steep the tea for 30-45 seconds, then gradually increase brewing time and temperature on subsequent steeps according to taste.

Rich, earthy and slightly sweet.

 

Yellow Tea

Some of the most well-known Chinese yellow teas include:

Junshan Yinzhen (Junshan Silver Needle)

Grown on the mountainous Junshan Island of Hunan Province, this tea is made from tender buds and has a delicate, sweet taste with a hint of chestnut. It has a light refreshing aroma and is often compared to white tea.

Huoshan Huangya (Huoshan Yellow Bud)

An imperial tribute tea that has been made in China since the Ming Dynasty. Like with many yellow teas, the processing method was lost – however it was recovered during 1972. The yellow colour is produced by spreading the tea indoors in three separate rounds. It has a has a light fruity flavour with a sweet aftertaste, and a bright, yellow-green liquor with a delicate aroma.

Shop for Huoshan Huangya tea

Brewing Tips and Flavour Profiles
Chinese Yellow Tea Brewing Tips Flavour Profiles
Junshan Yinzhen (Junshan Silver Needle) Temperature: 75 – 85°C (165 – 185°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 200ml (6.7oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 1-2 mins according to taste.

Light, sweet and smooth with a floral aroma.
Huoshan Huangya (Huoshan Yellow Bud) Temperature: 75 – 80°C (175 – 185°F).

Use about 2-3g of tea per 200ml (6.7oz) of water.

Steep the tea for 1-2 mins according to taste.

Refreshing and mellow with a nutty floral aroma.

 

Choosing and Storing Chinese Teas

Tips for selecting high-quality Chinese tea.
  • Buy from reputable sources: Purchase from trusted tea vendors who source their teas directly from reputable farmers and producers in China.
  • Check the origin: Look for teas that are labelled with the specific region and even the specific area or mountain in which they were grown. This information can give you an idea of the tea’s quality.
  • Look for hand-picked teas: Hand-picked teas are generally of higher quality than machine-harvested teas. However, due to labour costs, they are typically more expensive.
  • Check the appearance: Look for whole tea leaves which are unbroken and have a vibrant colour. Avoid teas with lots of twigs or tea dust.
  • Smell the tea: High-quality Chinese teas have a fresh, fragrant aroma. Be wary of teas that have no aroma or which smell stale.
  • Consider the season: Different seasons can affect the flavour and quality of tea. For example, spring teas are generally considered to be of higher quality than teas harvested in the autumn.
  • Know what you like: Taste is subjective, so it’s important to know what you like. Try different teas from different regions and find what suits your palate.

Proper storage methods help preserve flavour and freshness.

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavour and freshness of Chinese teas. Tea is generally sensitive to light, moisture, heat, air, and odour. Therefore, it’s best to store tea in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. An opaque container is best if the tea will be out in the open but a transparent one can be fine if is usually stored in a cupboard or pantry. Tea should also be kept well away from strong odours as it will absorb and take on the aromas of what is around it.

 

Chinese Tea Culture

Explanation of the role of tea in Chinese culture and traditions

Tea plays an integral role in Chinese culture and tradition. It is viewed as a symbol of harmony and balance, and is often used as a way to connect with others and show respect. Tea ceremonies and rituals have been practiced in China for centuries and are still commonplace today. Tea is also often given as a gift to show appreciation or respect to another. In addition to its cultural significance, tea is also an important aspect of daily life in China, and it is common to enjoy cups of tea by oneself or with one’s family and friends every day.

Chinese tea ceremonies and rituals

Tea ceremonies and rituals are an integral part of Chinese tea culture, and have been practiced in a variety of forms for thousands of years. These ceremonies can vary depending on the region, occasion, and purpose, but generally involve the preparation and serving of tea in a mindful and intentional way. One of the most well-known tea ceremonies is Gong Fu Cha, which involves the use of small clay teapots or porcelain gaiwans and steeping each tea for multiple infusions. Other ceremonies may involve specific gestures or movements, such as the Tea Art of Inquiry, which involves the host presenting a series of questions to the guests about the tea before it is served. These ceremonies are seen as a way to cultivate a sense of mindfulness as well as tranquillity and connectedness with others.

Gong Fu Cha

Gong Fu Cha, China’s most well-known tea ceremony, translates roughly to ‘Making Tea with Effort’. It is a traditional Chinese method of tea preparation that involves multiple short infusions of tea leaves in a small teapot or gaiwan. Only small amounts of tea with a high leaf-to-water ratio are brewed at a time, allowing for a more concentrated and nuanced flavour profile. The tea is then poured into small cups, often with intricate designs or patterns, and served to guests. Gong Fu Cha is not only a way of making tea but also a form of art and cultural expression, reflecting the values of harmony, balance, and hospitality in Chinese culture.

Etiquette and customs surrounding tea in China

Tea has a long and rich history and is deeply ingrained in its culture. As such, there are many customs and etiquettes surrounding the consumption of tea in China. One important custom is the act of offering tea as a sign of respect or hospitality towards guests. Pouring tea for others is also an important ritual and should be done with both hands, with the higher hand supporting the teapot or kettle. The order in which tea is served is also significant, with the most esteemed guests being served first. There are also specific teawares and brewing methods that are traditionally used, such as the gaiwan and the Yixing teapot.

Recap

  • China is the world’s largest tea producer, with a rich history and a diverse range of teas.
  • Chinese tea is thought to have numerous health benefits, such as potentially improving digestion, reducing stress, and boosting the immune system.
  • The production of Chinese tea involves various complex processes that include harvesting, withering, rolling, oxidising, drying, and sorting the leaves.
  • Chinese tea culture is deeply ingrained in Chinese society and has been practiced for centuries, with tea viewed as a symbol of harmony and balance.
  • Tea ceremonies and rituals are an integral part of Chinese tea culture, with many different types of ceremonies depending on the region, occasion, and purpose. However, the most famous ceremony is Gong Fu Cha.
  • Etiquette and customs surrounding tea in China are also important, including the act of offering tea as a sign of respect or hospitality to guests, specific brewing methods and teaware, and the order of serving guests.

See how many different types of Chinese tea you can try.

We encourage you to explore the diverse and rich world of Chinese tea by trying many different varieties. Some of our top recommendations include Long Jing (Dragon Well), Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy), Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe), Baihao Yinzhen (Silver Needle), and Sheng Puerh. Each of these teas has its own unique flavours and aromas, and trying them can give you a broad depth of appreciation for the complexity of Chinese tea and Chinese tea culture.

Where do I go for further reading and exploration of Chinese tea culture?
  1. Try the Certified Tea Master Course with Australian Tea Masters: This course provides a fantastic opportunity to deepen your knowledge of Chinese tea culture as well as the tea cultures of many other countries, taught by experts in the field.
  2. “The Classic of Tea” by Lu Yu: This ancient text, written by the Chinese Buddhist tea master Lu Yu in the 8th Century, is considered one of the most important works on tea and tea culture in Chinese history.
  3. “The Tea Enthusiast’s Handbook” by Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss: This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth exploration of Chinese tea culture, including its history, traditions, and brewing techniques.
  4. The “Tea Sommelier Handbook” by Australian Tea Masters: Recognised as one of the top 5 tea books in the world at World Tea Expo, this thoroughly researched guide to tea will give you an in-depth view of Chinese tea history and culture, as well as the history and tea culture of many other countries.
  5. “The Art and Alchemy of Chinese Tea” by Daniel Reid: This beautifully illustrated book offers a unique perspective on Chinese tea culture, exploring its connections to Taoist philosophy, traditional Chinese medicine, and other aspects of Chinese culture.

 

Conclusion

Chinese tea is a significant aspect of Chinese culture and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The diverse range of Chinese teas, including green, black, oolong, white, yellow, and Puerh teas, offer unique flavour profiles and potential health benefits. The production of Chinese tea is a complex process that requires skill and precision, and has been passed down dutifully from generation to generation. Chinese tea culture is deeply ingrained in Chinese society, with tea viewed as a symbol of harmony, balance, and respect. Tea ceremonies and rituals play an important role in Chinese tea culture, with etiquette and customs surrounding tea serving as a way to show hospitality and respect to guests. Overall, Chinese tea is a beautiful and important aspect of Chinese culture that continues to be enjoyed and celebrated around the world.

Australian Tea Masters

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