Some people are unwilling to drink the first infusion of Tea, thinking that the Rinse water should be discarded! In their minds, the first infusion may contain dust or other impurities and should not be kept.

However, most locals in Wuyi Mountain believe that this first infusion is the essence and it's a waste not to drink it!

Many people who visit Wuyi Mountain enjoy drinking Yancha there, and the locals like to save the first infusion for last, giving it an interesting name: “Soul-Returning Soup.”

It's a case of “he said, she said,” as there really is no standard for whether one should drink the first infusion.

If you're willing to drink it, go ahead; if not, then don't. After all, brewing tea isn't an absolute science – it's your domain, your rules, and your tea.

Whether to save the “Soul-Returning Soup” when brewing Yancha largely depends on personal preference, and there's no need to overcomplicate things.

I personally think the first infusion can be enjoyed, and here are three reasons why:

First, high-quality Yancha meets strict hygiene standards, ensuring clean leaves and safe consumption.

Second, everyone involved in growing, producing, selling, and evaluating tea in Wuyi Mountain drinks the first infusion, indicating that there's nothing inherently wrong with it.

Third, the first infusion is the grand finale of the entire brewing process, containing unique qualities that make it the legendary “Soul-Returning Soup.”

We often savor the first infusion of Yancha last, as its flavor is incredibly smooth and full-bodied, truly showcasing the essence of Yancha's “rocky fragrance.” This first infusion is playfully referred to as “Soul-Returning Soup.”

What is “Soul-Returning Soup”? It refers to setting aside the first infusion instead of discarding it as rinse water and enjoying it at the end.

Drinking in this manner means consuming “Soul-Returning Soup,” which contains many beneficial compounds, boasts excellent aroma and freshness, and is nutritionally rich.

It would be a waste not to drink it! Additionally, “Soul-Returning Soup” helps better discern the flavor changes in a brewing session and gauge the accumulation of inner qualities. It plays a crucial role in the overall sensory experience of the tea.