In the world of Chinese tea, Pu-erh tea is known for its bold, earthy flavor and fascinating story. Originating from Yunnan Province, this tea has captured hearts and taste buds with its unique aging process and deep, robust taste that only gets better with time. Characterised in the “black tea” category, Pu-erh only refers to those made solely from a specific tea plant type: Yunnan’s large-leaf tea trees (Camellia sinensis var.assamica), which grow in the region’s warm, misty mountains.
Today, let’s explore Pu-erh tea, from its storied history and special processing methods to the best way to enjoy its rich, layered flavours.
The History of Pu-erh Tea
Pu-erh tea has a long history that dates back to at least the Zhou Dynasty, with legends of tea as an offering to the rulers. However, the first written mention of Pu-Erh tea was in the Ming Dynasty literature ‘Dian Lüe’ (translates into ‘An Overview of Yunnan’), showing its popularity among the society. By the Qing Dynasty, Pu-erh tea had become so well-regarded that it was a tribute tea offered to the emperor, a symbol of Yunnan’s pride.
The creation of pressed Pu-erh tea was driven by the Tea Horse Road trade. In the warm and humid Yunnan region, tightly pressed and packed Pu-erh allowed easy transportation and storage. This practice was crucial when it comes to trading tea with Tibet and other regions, as it preserved the tea’s quality and enhanced its aging potential, making it a treasured commodity.
Types of Pu-erh Tea
The warm climate and high rainfall in Yunnan favours the growth of large-leaf tea trees, known for their robust flavours and abundant leaves. Under such conditions the tea trees evolved into tall tree trunks and large leaves, making it perfect for making Pu-erh tea. The further north the tea trees are found, the smaller the leaves, which also affects the tea’s flavor.
The primary types of Pu-erh are:
Sheng (Raw) Pu-erh: This type of Pu-erh is naturally aged and has a bright, vibrant flavor. It is valued for its evolving taste, which grows more complex as it ages.
Shou (Ripe) Pu-erh: Goes through a controlled fermentation process to develop a smooth, deep taste more efficiently, giving a rich, mellow taste.
The Aging Process
Aging is what makes Pu-erh tea truly unique. After the leaves are harvested, they’re processed in one of two ways. Raw Pu-erh undergoes minimal processing, allowing it to age naturally over years, developing layers of flavour complexity. Ripe Pu-erh, on the other hand, goes through a controlled fermentation process, accelerating its aging to create a deeper, smoother tea. Pu-erh tea cakes comes in at least 7 different shapes—most commonly the circular form, but also bricks, small nests and more. Each shape has a unique aging profile.
Health Benefits of Pu-erh Tea
Pu-erh tea is renowned for its health benefits, which come from the fermentation process. Rich in probiotics, it aids digestion and promote gut health. The tea is also high in antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against free radicals. In traditional Chinese medicine, Pu-erh is often considered a warming tea that supports digestion and circulation.
How to Brew Pu-erh Tea (Kung Fu tea)
Brewing Pu-erh tea is a bit different from other teas and is often an experience in itself. Here’s a simple way to enjoy it:
Measure: Use about 3 grams of Pu-erh tea per cup.
Rinse: Briefly rinse the tea with hot water to “wake up” the leaves and remove any dust.
Steep: Use water at 100°C. For the first steep, infuse for about 30 seconds; subsequent steeps can be 30s or longer, depending on taste.
Enjoy: Savor the earthy, rich notes with each sip.
A Peaceful Experience
Pu-erh tea offers a depth and richness that’s hard to find in other teas. Its complex flavors, together with its history, give each cup a sense of stability and maturity. Whether you’re new to tea or have been drinking it for years, Pu-erh is a taste of history, and a reminder of tea’s ability to transport us to different times and places. Whether you’re looking for a tea with health benefits or a truly unique tasting experience, Pu-erh would be a wonderful option. Brew a cup and immerse in the rich, earthy flavours of Pu-erh, enjoy the journey that sends your taste buds to the high mountains of Yunnan.
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