Storing Tea after prying it open is generally a practice during the tea waking process. When a tea product is freshly retrieved from storage, it requires a period of tea waking to improve its taste. Prying the tea open can expedite this process; however, for long-term storage, it is not recommended to pry the tea open as doing so is detrimental to preserving the aroma and flavor of the tea. The shape in which tea products are pressed is the result of repeated experimentation by craftsmen to ensure optimal aging quality. Storing the tea after prying it open alters this intended aging process.
Containers for Storing Pried Pu'er Tea
1. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Porcelain Jars
Porcelain jars have good airtightness. If the tea has already aged well, storing it in a porcelain jar can enhance the concentration of its aroma. Additionally, teas with a softer mouthfeel from large trees can also be considered for storage in porcelain jars to continue their aging process.
2. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Clay Jars
Small purple clay jars without any off-flavors are ideal. They effectively eliminate unwanted odors and flavors and promote good aging. After some time, they can help reduce bitterness and astringency and increase the richness of the tea's flavor.
3. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Tin Jars
Tin jars offer the best airtightness. If the tea has developed unique fragrances (such as high-quality vintage or registered-grade teas), consider storing it in a tin jar.
4. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Stainless Steel Jars
Stainless steel jars also provide good airtightness, effectively preserving the quality of the tea.
5. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Glass Jars
Glass jars also have high airtightness, but attention should be paid to the material of the lid. Additionally, due to their high transparency, glass jars are only suitable for short-term storage.
6. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Plastic Jars
Care should be taken with plastic jars to avoid any plastic Odor. They should be kept away from heat sources and have high transparency, making them unsuitable for tea storage.
7. Storing Pried Pu'er Tea in Cardboard Boxes or Kraft Paper Bags
Pried Pu'er tea stored in cardboard boxes or kraft paper bags is more prone to absorbing unwanted odors and is therefore not recommended. Unpried opened Pu'er tea cakes can be wrapped in cotton paper and placed in a cardboard box.