Storing Tea requires some attention to detail, but tea enthusiasts need not worry too much. Choosing the right environment is half the battle. When selecting a storage environment, keep these three points in mind: avoid light exposure, prevent moisture, and ensure there are no strange odors. Store Pu'er tea in a dry and well-ventilated area to prevent dampness and mold, allowing it to age slowly for the best flavor and aroma.

The Three Components of Pu'er Tea Transformation

First is oxidation. As a basic chemical principle, any substance exposed to air will undergo an oxidation reaction, and Pu'er tea is no exception.

Second is enzymatic reactions. Pu'er tea contains a high amount of polyphenol oxidase. When these enzymes come into contact with oxygen, they trigger rapid enzymatic reactions that need to be controlled manually. The process of pan-firing is essential to manage the speed of these enzymatic reactions.

Third is fermentation by beneficial bacteria, which is a unique feature of Pu'er tea.

With this understanding, let's analyze whether it's better to store Pu'er tea loose or compressed into cakes?

When compressed into cakes, the inner part of the tea has less contact with air, leading to slower oxidation and lower enzymatic reaction rates. If humidity and temperature are appropriately controlled, the beneficial bacterial population can become dominant, inhibiting the growth of other fungi while producing moderate fermentation. This results in a better taste experience, such as improved aroma concentration, richer flavor, and smoother mouthfeel.

How to Store Pu'er Tea for Better Aging?

1. Simple Cardboard Box Storage

Using cardboard boxes to store tea is the simplest method, cost-effective and easy to implement. Cardboard boxes are readily available, and you can even use the original packaging boxes that came with your Pu'er tea. Place the tea in plastic bags first, then put them in cardboard boxes. However, remember not to place the boxes against walls or on the floor, and try to avoid direct contact between the boxes and walls or floors.

Especially in coastal areas like Guangdong, where humidity is naturally higher, after placing the tea in cardboard boxes, store them in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas, such as bookshelves or wooden racks. Regularly check the tea for signs of dampness. The storage location should also avoid direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause the tea to spoil.

2. Strongly Recommended: Canister Storage Method

A tea storage canister is a very useful tool. It effectively prevents the tea from becoming damp and avoids contact with air, preventing oxidation. Additionally, storing tea in a canister can help “awaken” the tea, making it a two-in-one solution.

Pu'er tea can be stored in canisters in two ways: using small canisters to store one type of tea per canister; or using large canisters, where each type of tea must be sealed in a plastic bag before being placed in the canister.

Pu'er tea varies by origin, and teas from different mountains and regions have distinct aromas, flavors, and properties. To prevent cross-contamination, different teas should not touch each other. Raw and ripe teas should also be stored separately. Once the tea is placed in the canister, make sure to seal the canister tightly to prevent the tea aroma from dissipating.