There are many types of Tea, and when choosing which one to buy, there's no need to overthink it or follow others, as everyone has their own preferences. Therefore, it's best to choose a tea that you enjoy drinking and can afford. Understanding this approach to selection is also understanding the essence of life.

How to Choose Tea

I. Observe the Dry Tea's Appearance

1. Test the Dryness of the Tea

The key factor in checking dry tea is its dryness level; high-quality tea should have a moisture content below 5%. If you gently crush a small amount between your thumb and index finger, or lightly clasp some in your palm, it should feel slightly prickly if properly dried. Conversely, if applying significant pressure does not break the tea leaves, it indicates they have become damp and soft.

2. Examine the Shape of the Dry Tea

The shape and uniformity of the dry tea leaves are important. The presence of too many tea corners, stems, yellowed leaves, or other impurities is undesirable. Generally, tightly rolled, heavy-bodied, round (except for flat teas), and upright leaves indicate young leaves and good processing, signifying high quality. Conversely, loose, flat (except for flat teas), broken leaves with smoky or burnt odors suggest old leaves, poor processing, and inferior quality.

3. Evaluate the Color of the Dry Tea

Tea with an oily sheen and bright color indicates new tea, suggesting a shorter storage time and better aroma and flavor. Consistent, bright, and vivid colors signify high-quality tea. If the color is inconsistent, uneven, dull, and lacks luster, it indicates uneven leaf age, poor processing, and inferior quality.

Different tea types have specific color requirements: Black Tea should be dark and glossy, Green Tea bright green, oolong tea olive-brown, and dark tea black and oily.

II. Smell the Aroma of the Dry Tea

Before brewing, place a small amount of dry tea in a tea appreciation vessel and smell the aroma. Pay particular attention to any rancid, scorched, grassy, or other off odors.

III. Taste the Infused Tea

1. Observe the Liquor Color

The color of the tea liquor varies depending on the degree of fermentation and roasting, but regardless of whether it's honey-green or orange-red, the tea liquor must be clear and bright. If the tea liquor appears murky or grayish, it indicates lower quality tea.

2. Savor the Flavor

The taste of the tea liquor is best when harmonious. For all types of tea, less bitterness and astringency and a sweet, smooth flavor are preferred. Good tea will leave a lingering fragrance in the mouth after drinking, and there should be a sensation of sweetness and moistness in the throat.

Drinking tea is about inner peace and a sense of ease. Tea tasting can cultivate one's character, as you savor the aroma, observe the color, and enjoy the taste. It allows you to appreciate the unique aspects of Tea drinking. Regular tea drinkers know that there are many benefits to drinking tea. Through the above content, you can learn how to select tea. Give it a try!