Pu'er Tea, of course, is a distinctive tea from Yunnan Province. It is known for its rich flavor, prominent aged aroma, smooth taste, and long-lasting aftertaste, making it a unique tea throughout the year. Now is precisely the time when Pu'er tea hits the market, eagerly anticipated by many tea enthusiasts. However, when purchasing Pu'er tea, enthusiasts should be meticulous in their selection to ensure they are getting authentic high-quality Pu'er tea.

So, how do we select Pu'er tea correctly?

Pu'er tea, according to the standard definition, refers to tea leaves that are picked and processed within specific regions of Yunnan at certain times.

Pu'er tea can generally be divided into two categories: the first category is the “First Flush Pu'er,” which is picked around the Qingming Festival. The second category is the Second Flush or Late Spring Pu'er, usually harvested before mid-May. Regular drinkers of Pu'er tea understand that the tea has distinct characteristics across different seasons.

If you are selecting Pu'er tea at this time, there are two main aspects to consider: appearance and internal quality.

Appearance: Before brewing, observe the shape, color, and smell of the tea leaves. Pu'er tea leaves are typically whole and robust, with clear veins, natural serrated edges, and sometimes visible downy hair. They have a lustrous color and a unique, lasting fragrance.

Internal Quality: After brewing, judge the tea by its aroma, taste, and the infused leaves. Pu'er tea leaves sink quickly during brewing, emitting a stable and enduring aroma with a rich flavor. Summer and autumn teas, on the other hand, sink more slowly and have a thinner aroma when brewed.

Pu'er tea is loved by many tea enthusiasts due to the rich accumulation of nutrients in the tea trees over a long growing period, resulting in thick leaves with high levels of polyphenols and other beneficial substances. Additionally, since the spring season has suitable weather and fewer pests, there is generally no need for excessive pesticide use, making Pu'er tea relatively free from pesticide contamination. Therefore, considering both the quality and health safety of the tea, Pu'er tea is an ideal choice, which is why so many tea lovers favor it.