In the vast world of tea, one kind stands out for its delicate flavour— white tea. Though often misunderstood as flavourless, white tea has been quietly appreciated for centuries. White tea originates during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and was renowned for its purity and simplicity. It’s soft, sweet, and soothing taste makes it a favourite for those who seek peace and subtlety in a cup.
White tea is mainly produced in Fujian and Yunnan Provence in China. In this blog, let us explore and appreciate the beauty of Yunnan white tea. We’ll take a closer look at its unique features, production process, and the best way to enjoy it.
What is Yunnan White Tea?
Yunnan white tea is made from the large-leaf tea plants native to the Yunnan region. These are the same plants used to produce the well-known Pu-erh tea. Unlike other white teas more famous in Fujian Province, Yunnan white tea offers its own unique charm, thanks to the region’s distinct tea-growing conditions.
Yunnan white tea is typically divided into two main types based on the tenderness of the leaves:
Big White Hair (Da Bai Hao): This type is made from the single buds of Yunnan's large-leaf tea plants. It undergoes withering and drying, producing a tea with a more robust, yet still gentle, flavor.
Moonlight White (Yueguang Bai): Made from either single buds or one bud with one leaf. The name "Moonlight White" comes from its appearance—the buds are covered in fine white hairs, resembling a crescent moon.
The Production Process of Yunnan White Tea
Yunnan white tea is made using the characteristic large leaves from the Yunnan tea plant, known for its strong, bold characteristics. After being picked, the leaves are spread out indoors to wither and dry naturally. This process allows the tea to retain its delicate flavor and nutrients.
Big White Hair is made from the large buds of Yunnan’s tea trees. These teas develop a deeper, slightly more complex flavor, thanks to the larger leaf size.
Moonlight White is made from mixing buds with its first one or two leaves. The name "Moonlight White" comes from its appearance—the leaves covered in fine white hairs resembling a crescent moon.
Health Benefits of Yunnan White Tea
Like other white teas, Yunnan white tea is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation. It’s known for its calming effects, making it a great choice for moments of relaxation. The tea is also believed to help improve skin health, support heart health, and boost immunity.
In traditional Chinese medicine, white tea is often seen as a cooling drink, perfect for calming the mind and body.
How to Brew Yunnan White Tea (Kung Fu tea)
Brewing Yunnan white tea is easy and can be adjusted personally, and there are some general rules that could help us bring out its best flavours. Here’s a simple guide:
Measure: use about 1:50 tea-to-water ratio
Heat the water: For tea with more leaves, use water that’s around 100°C after boiling. For those more delicate with buds, brew at 80-90°C to prevent over-extracting which would give a slightly more sour flavour.
Steep: Pour the water over the tea leaves and let them steep for 30-45 s, depending on how strong you like your tea. Step up 10s for each subsequent brew. White tea can be brewed up to 8+ brews
Enjoy: Begin with its scent then take a small sip to appreciate the subtle flavours and gentle sweetness within.
A Mindful Experience
Yunnan white tea is more than just a drink—it’s a chance to slow down and be present in the moment. The delicate flavors and calming warmth invite you to take a break from the rush of daily life. Each sip endorses a sense of peace and relaxation, making it a perfect companion for mindful moments.
Whether you’re new to tea or have been drinking it for years, Yunnan white tea offers a unique and peaceful experience, steeped in history and tradition.
Yunnan white tea stands out for its simplicity and quiet elegance. Whether you’re looking for a way to relax or simply enjoy a delicate, sweet tea, Yunnan white tea offers a beautiful way to reconnect with both nature and yourself. Why not brew a cup and discover its calming beauty today?
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