Pu'er Tea is characterized by becoming more fragrant with age, and its true value is best realized during the post-fermentation process. This is why aged Pu'er teas are highly sought after. So, how should Pu'er tea be stored properly?

I. Storage Conditions

1. Temperature: The temperature for storing Pu'er tea should be controlled between 10°C and 25°C. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should avoid extreme heat or cold. During hot summer months, Pu'er tea should be kept in a cool place, away from direct sunlight.

2. Humidity: Excessively high humidity can cause Pu'er tea to develop off-flavors and mold, while excessively low humidity can cause it to yellow or lose its distinctive flavor profile.

3. Ventilation: The storage area for Pu'er tea should have good ventilation to maintain air circulation and prevent mold growth.

4. Dryness: Before storing Pu'er tea, the outer surface of the container should be cleaned, ensuring that the inside is dry and well-ventilated, and sanitized to prevent bacterial or microbial contamination.

II. Storage Environment

1. A dedicated container should be selected for storing Pu'er tea. It is recommended to use a container that has never been used before to ensure that it does not carry any off-flavors.

2. Containers for storing Pu'er tea should preferably be opaque, such as Ceramic, plastic, or glass jars, but should not be stored in compressed containers, which could affect their original flavor.

3. Pu'er tea should be stored in a clean, dry, ventilated, and cool environment. If it is packaged in a bag, it should be placed in a corner with good ventilation to avoid dampness caused by improper placement.

4. A natural storage method is recommended, where the tea leaves are directly placed in a dry, ventilated, and dark environment to air-dry and preserve, enhancing their aroma over time.

III. Precautions

1. Different varieties of Pu'er tea may require different storage and tasting methods, so adjustments should be made accordingly.

2. When storing Pu'er tea, care should be taken not to mix it with items that have strong odors, as this can affect the tea's aroma and taste.

3. If Pu'er tea develops an off-flavor or mold, the storage environment should be immediately changed or reorganized to prevent health issues associated with the tea.