For unopened tea intended for consumption within three months or in the short term, place the tea in a tin and store it in the refrigerator. For tea that won't be consumed for over three months, pack it in a tin or a tin can, and enclose the container in a plastic bag before placing it in the freezer. Take care to prevent contact with other foods in the fridge to avoid flavor contamination.

The Key to Storing Tea: Prevent pressure, moisture, ensure airtight sealing, avoid light exposure, and prevent odors.

Different types of tea require different storage methods based on their aging process and nature.

1. Green and Yellow Teas

Of all teas, Green Tea is best stored in the fridge, especially fragrant teas like Longjing. As Yellow Tea processing is similar to green tea, the same storage method applies.

If you plan to consume the tea shortly after opening, keep it in the refrigerator at about 5 degrees Celsius.

If you have an unopened package and want to store it for over a year, use the freezer instead.

When buying large quantities, divide them into smaller packages (tins) and refrigerate. Only take out what you need for brewing and avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the same package.

2. Flower-scented Teas

Flower-scented teas have a strong floral aroma, which can be suppressed by low temperatures, reducing its freshness and intensity. Therefore, flower-scented teas do not require low temperature storage; they should simply be kept in a cool, dry, odor-free environment.

3. Oolong Teas

Oolong tea, being semi-fermented and falling between black and green teas, is relatively easy to store.

Depending on the degree of drying and Roasting, heavily roasted teas such as Wuyi rock tea and highly fragrant Tieguanyin, as well as some Phoenix single-origin teas, can be stored at room temperature without needing low temperature storage.

Conversely, lightly roasted teas like fresh Tieguanyin and dehumidified Phoenix single-origin teas are better preserved in the fridge to maintain their freshness and taste.

4. Black Teas

Black tea has a low moisture content and is prone to absorbing moisture or losing its aroma, so it's best to avoid mixing different types of tea. Store it in a tightly sealed, dry container away from light and heat. If possible, a purple clay jar or tin can is ideal, while glass jars may allow sunlight to penetrate. Before storing the tea, place it in a plastic bag and remove as much air as possible to preserve the aroma.

5. White Teas

White tea is durable and easy to store, requiring only room temperature and protection from odors. The ideal temperature range is generally between 10-35°C. Over time, the dry leaves and tea liquor will darken, and the flavor will become softer and more mellow.

6. Dark Teas

Dark tea requires a well-ventilated, dry, and odor-free environment for storage. It is best to use breathable packaging materials such as kraft paper (avoid using plastic bags) to seal the tea. Every three months or so, check the stored tea for mold or infestation.