Dahongpao (also known as Wuyi Rock Tea) is a specialty and renowned tea from China, produced in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian. It belongs to the Oolong tea category and is listed among the first batch of national-level intangible cultural heritage. This tea contains three beneficial components: tea polyphenols, tea polysaccharides, and tea amino acids. Its appearance features tightly twisted leaves with a fresh green-brown color. When brewed, it produces an orange-yellow, bright liquor with red and green intermingled leaves. The aroma is rich with a hint of Orchid fragrance, which is high and lasting. The taste is sweet, smooth, and refreshing upon entry. As a high-quality Oolong Tea and a special renowned tea of China, it is considered a precious treasure among teas. Therefore, proper storage of Dahongpao is essential. If stored improperly, Dahongpao can spoil and lose its flavor, wasting a fine tea. So, how should Dahongpao be stored? What are the storage requirements for Dahongpao tea?

Storage Requirements for Dahongpao Tea

Avoid Light: Store Dahongpao away from light and sunlight; keep it in a cool place.

Airproof: Dahongpao needs to be stored in a sealed container, ideally isolated from air and avoiding pressure.

Moisture-proof: Maintain a dry environment for storage. High humidity can cause the tea to mold.

Avoid High Temperatures: A reasonable temperature range for storing Dahongpao rock tea is 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. Higher temperatures will accelerate spoilage.

Avoid Strange Odors: Strange odors can alter the tea's aroma, so store it away from environments with strong or mixed odors.

How to Store Dahongpao

Method One: Iron Can Storage. Package Dahongpao tea well and store it in an iron can. Ensure the can is airtight and undamaged, and it's best to include a desiccant. This can extend the storage time of Dahongpao tea.

Method Two: Earthenware Can Storage. Storing tea in an earthenware can is generally better than using an iron can, as iron cans can rust over time. Properly package the Dahongpao tea before placing it in the earthenware can, and add quicklime or other desiccants to maintain dryness within the can.

Method Three: Low-Temperature Storage. Seal Dahongpao tea well and store it directly in the refrigerator. This method is simple and convenient. However, ensure it is properly sealed, as refrigerators are humid and can have strange odors. Additionally, do not store Dahongpao tea for too long in the refrigerator.

Should Dahongpao Be Stored in the Refrigerator?

It is best not to store Dahongpao in the refrigerator, as refrigerators can have moisture and strange odors that can affect the taste of the tea. Refrigerators are more suitable for storing unfermented teas, especially green teas with high fragrances like Longjing. For short-term storage and frequent consumption, green teas can be stored in the refrigerator at about 5 degrees Celsius. If you wish to store unopened tea for over a year, it should be placed in the freezer.