“Store new Tea, drink aged tea” has always been a common practice among many tea enthusiasts in the Pu'er tea community. Pu'er tea is known for its characteristic of improving with age. What kind of environment is suitable for storing Pu'er tea to make it even more enjoyable?

Suitable Environment for Storing Pu'er Tea

Firstly, circulating air.

Circulating air contains a higher level of oxygen, which is beneficial for the proliferation of certain microorganisms in the tea, thus accelerating the aging process of the tea. However, do not hang Pu'er tea out on balconies. There should be moderately circulating air, but not placed directly in the wind. Additionally, the surrounding environment should not have any peculiar odors, as this can cause the tea to absorb these odors and change flavor. Therefore, it should not be stored in environments such as kitchens or places with household or industrial odors.

Secondly, constant temperature.

The temperature at which Pu'er tea is stored should neither be too high nor too low. It should adapt to the local climate without requiring artificial temperature control. A normal indoor temperature is sufficient, ideally between 20°C to 30°C year-round. Higher temperatures can accelerate fermentation and cause the tea to become sour. Regardless of the season, Pu'er tea should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should be kept in a cool place. In spring, summer, and autumn, changes in the tea will occur faster than in winter.

Thirdly, moderate humidity.

Good Pu'er tea emphasizes dry storage, meaning it should be kept in a dry environment and avoid moisture. An overly dry environment can slow down the aging process of the tea, so there needs to be some humidity present. In drier environments, you can place a small Cup of water near where the tea is stored to slightly increase the humidity in the air. However, an excessively humid environment can cause rapid changes in the tea, often leading to mold growth, rendering the tea undrinkable. Humidity should be controlled appropriately, with the annual average humidity not exceeding 75%. Due to the warm maritime climate along coastal areas, the humidity may exceed 75% during the plum rain season, so it's important to open windows and ventilate to reduce moisture levels.

Key Points for Storing Pu'er Tea

1. Keep away from pollution: The environment for storing Pu'er tea must not be polluted. Pollution is something that should be avoided when storing any type of tea, and Pu'er tea is no exception. Pu'er tea can quickly absorb the odors of other substances, which can cover or alter the original aroma of the tea. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea at home, strict precautions should be taken to prevent contamination by common odors such as cooking oil, cosmetics, and medications.

2. Keep away from high temperatures: The storage temperature for Pu'er tea should not be too high or too low. Temperatures between 20°C to 30°C are ideal. High temperatures can cause the tea to turn sour. However, many regions cannot meet this condition, so storing it at home under normal conditions is acceptable. When storing ripe Pu'er tea, avoid placing it near fireplaces, kitchens, or machines that generate heat.

3. Keep away from dampness: Pu'er tea is a porous and loose material that easily absorbs moisture and becomes damp, especially during the rainy season in summer when there is a lot of humidity in the air. Pu'er tea can easily absorb moisture, which can lead to the growth of microorganisms and result in mold.

4. Keep away from direct sunlight: Many tea enthusiasts overlook the effect of sunlight on Pu'er tea. Long-term exposure to sunlight can result in a sun-dried flavor, which can dominate the tea's profile and mask other aromas. This can significantly affect the taste during consumption.

5. Keep away from strong odors: Pu'er tea not only absorbs moisture but also readily absorbs odors, making it susceptible to unwanted flavors. Strong odors, especially perfume and kitchen fumes, can have a significant impact on the tea. Therefore, Pu'er tea should not be stored alongside items with strong odors during the storage process.