How to store Pu'er Tea in the north? Northern regions are relatively dry, so how can we better warehouse Pu'er tea there? During the warehousing process of Pu'er tea, internal substances undergo transformations that require a certain level of humidity (best between 40% and 75%), temperature (best between 10°C and 35°C), and air. Since the northern region has low temperatures in winter and relatively low humidity throughout the year, the microbial flora in Pu'er tea grows slowly, making the transformation of the tea less noticeable. The best approach is to first store the tea in Yunnan for six to seven years to allow the microbial flora to thrive, then bring it to the north for storage. After a few years, it will become a very special tea.

How to Store Pu'er Tea in the North

One: Circulating Air

Circulating air contains more oxygen, which is beneficial for the proliferation of some microorganisms in the tea, thus accelerating the changes in the tea. However, do not hang Pu'er tea on a balcony, as this would cause the tea's aroma and flavor to dissipate, making it taste bland. Therefore, there should be moderate circulation of air, but the tea should not be placed in a drafty area. Additionally, ensure that there are no odors in the surrounding environment, as the tea can absorb these odors. Thus, do not place the tea in environments with household or industrial odors, such as in the kitchen.

Two: Constant Temperature

The temperature at which Pu'er tea is stored should not be too high or too low; it should be based on the local environment, without artificially creating specific conditions. A normal indoor temperature is sufficient, ideally kept between 20°C and 30°C year-round. Higher temperatures can cause the tea to ferment too quickly and turn sour. Generally, the changes in Pu'er tea during spring, summer, and autumn occur faster than in winter. Regardless of the season, the tea should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should be stored in a cool place.

Three: Appropriate Humidity

“Nowadays, good Pu'er tea emphasizes ‘dry storage,' meaning storing it in a dry environment, avoiding moisture,” says He Shihua. A very dry environment will slow down the aging process of Pu'er tea, so there needs to be a certain level of humidity. In drier environments, you can place a small Cup of water near where the tea is stored to slightly increase the humidity in the air. However, an overly humid environment can cause rapid changes in Pu'er tea, often leading to mold, rendering the tea undrinkable. Humidity should be controlled appropriately, with an average annual humidity not exceeding 75%. In coastal areas with high humidity, special attention should be paid to control the humidity.

The temperature at which Pu'er tea is stored should not be too high or too low; it should be based on the local environment, without artificially creating specific conditions. A normal indoor temperature is sufficient, ideally kept between 20°C and 30°C year-round. Higher temperatures can cause the tea to ferment too quickly and turn sour. Generally, the changes in Pu'er tea during spring, summer, and autumn occur faster than in winter. Regardless of the season, the tea should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should be stored in a cool place.