๐ผ White Tea: Simplicity and Subtlety in Every Sip
White tea (็ฝ่ถ, bรกi chรก) is the most delicate of all Chinese teas, known for its gentle flavor, light body, and minimal processing. Prized for its purity, white tea embodies the elegance and restraint of classical Chinese tea culture.
๐ฑ The Origins of White Tea
White tea traces its roots back to the Fujian Province during the Tang Dynasty (618โ907 CE), with production techniques refined during the Song and Ming Dynasties. The earliest white teas were sun-dried and reserved for tribute to the imperial court, earning them a reputation for refinement and rarity.
๐พ What Makes White Tea Unique?
Unlike green or black tea, white tea is minimally processed:
- No rolling or fermentation.
- Leaves are simply withered and dried, preserving their natural shape and chemical composition.
- The result is a tea that is low in caffeine and high in natural antioxidants, with a mild, slightly sweet taste.
๐ธ Types of White Tea
- Baihao Yinzhen (็ฝๆฏซ้ถ้) โ Silver Needle: The most prized white tea, made exclusively from young buds covered in fine white hairs. Its flavor is soft, sweet, and floral.
- Baimudan (็ฝ็กไธน) โ White Peony: Combines buds and first leaves for a fuller body and stronger taste.
- Shou Mei (ๅฏฟ็) โ Longevity Eyebrow: Harvested later in the season, this tea has a darker color and a richer, more robust flavor.
๐ต Brewing White Tea
White tea requires a light touch:
- Water Temperature: 75โ85ยฐC (167โ185ยฐF)
- Steeping Time: 2โ5 minutes
- Glass or porcelain teaware is preferred to appreciate the leavesโ unfurling and pale liquor.
Pro Tip: High-quality white tea can often be steeped multiple times, revealing new notes with each infusion.
๐ White Tea in Chinese Culture
In Chinese tradition, white tea is associated with purity, longevity, and calmness. Itโs often served during summer due to its naturally cooling properties. In recent years, aged white teas have gained cultural status and are enjoyed much like fine wines โ appreciated for their complexity and health benefits as they mature.
๐ก Did You Know?
- White tea is sometimes aged for 3โ10 years, developing deeper flavors over time.
- It was historically believed to cool internal heat and was used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory qualities.