Recent days have seen continuous rainfall in the south, and it is said that the southern China region will continue to experience rainy weather for the next week. With this damp climate, Liubao Tea storage is facing a significant challenge.
A tea enthusiast messaged me on WeChat asking: If the storage conditions are usually on the drier side leading to slower tea transformation, would it be better now to let some humid air into the storage area since the weather is more humid?
This viewpoint is absolutely incorrect!!!
The aging of Liubao tea primarily depends on the long-term action of microorganisms. While maintaining a certain level of humidity can help the growth of microorganisms, increasing humidity in a short period of time does not immediately lead to favorable transformations in the tea. On the contrary, it may cause the tea to spoil or develop mold.
Therefore, I suggest during rainy weather, try to keep doors and windows closed as much as possible to maintain a sealed environment in the storage area. If you notice the humidity remains consistently high (e.g., over 80%), then consider using an air conditioner or dehumidifier to reduce the moisture.
How do you know the specific humidity levels? There are many affordable hygrometers available online for just tens of yuan, and purchasing one could prevent significant losses.
For small-scale home storage, consider using ziplock bags or cardboard boxes to store your tea, and only take them out when the weather improves.
Some enthusiasts might worry that if the storage area is sealed, the tea might become oxygen-deprived and affect its transformation. This concern is unwarranted:
Firstly, we're only temporarily sealing the area rather than keeping it sealed for extended periods. When the weather becomes drier, occasional ventilation to remove unwanted odors is still necessary.
Secondly, for the microorganisms that drive the aging process of Liubao tea, an anaerobic environment is actually more conducive to their growth. Therefore, even in a sealed environment, Liubao tea can continue to transform. Over a longer period, a semi-anaerobic environment is beneficial for the aging of Liubao tea.
In summary, do not take the storage of Liubao tea lightly. Pay attention to every detail, and years later, it will reward you with outstanding taste!
Lastly, some enthusiasts mention that during rainy days, they feel the aroma of the tea weakens and the flavor becomes less pronounced. This is actually a normal phenomenon and doesn't indicate a decline in the quality of the tea. The increased moisture in the air during rain can interfere with the aromatic compounds. Additionally, lower atmospheric pressure during rainy weather can also affect one's sense of taste and smell.
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