Tea enthusiasts know that Pu'er tea, in addition to having a unique taste, can be stored for a long time, and the longer it is stored, the better its flavor becomes. So how should Pu'er tea be stored best?

How to Store Pu'er Tea Best

1. Original Packaging Storage

For whole cases or pieces of Pu'er tea purchased, there is no need to remove the packaging; they can be placed directly on shelves in a tea room or in a storage room. Note: Do not store Pu'er tea with its packaging in the refrigerator, as this will shorten the tea's shelf life.

2. Cardboard Box Storage

For loose Pu'er tea, first, organize the tea and place it into kraft paper bags, then put these bags into a clean cardboard box and seal it. Finally, place the Pu'er tea in a well-ventilated, dry study or tea room.

3. Purple Clay Jar Storage

Prepare a clean, Odor-free purple clay jar, then place the Pu'er tea (with its cotton paper wrapping) inside the jar and seal it. Note: The jars should be stored off the ground and away from walls. When storing, also take care to prevent odors, avoid light exposure, and ensure moderate ventilation to prevent the tea from spoiling.

Factors to Consider When Storing Pu'er Tea:

1. Temperature

The temperature for storing Pu'er tea should generally be between 20-30°C. Temperatures that are too high or too low are not conducive to the aging of the tea. Also, avoid air conditioning and direct sunlight, as these can alter the quality of the tea.

2. Humidity

Maintain a relative humidity between 65%-75%. A humidity level that is too high or too low is also not beneficial for the aging of Pu'er tea. In dry weather, Pu'er tea (especially raw tea) may enter a dormant state, which is not conducive to aging. You can use a humidifier to increase the air humidity appropriately or frequently wipe the floor with a damp towel, which can both increase humidity and clean the area.

In very dry living spaces, it is important to maintain an appropriate level of humidity. You can purchase a hygrometer from home goods stores to better monitor changes in humidity. In very humid and hot places, the tea comes into contact with more moisture, which can cause the tea to age rapidly and spoil easily. In such conditions, pay attention to ensuring good air circulation and moisture dispersion.

3. Ventilation

Pu'er tea needs to “breathe,” and the conditions for its transformation require oxygen and moisture. If storing Pu'er tea at home, it should be placed in a dry and ventilated area. The oxygen in circulating air is beneficial for the proliferation of microorganisms in the tea, which aids in the transformation of the tea's internal substances and accelerates its aging. Under the dual effects of enzymatic and non-enzymatic oxidation reactions, the benign aging of Pu'er tea can be promoted and accelerated.

However, note that Pu'er tea should not be directly exposed to wind and should not be hung on balconies. Pu'er tea stored in such conditions loses its aroma and flavor, making it taste bland. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea, there should be moderate air circulation, but it should not be placed in a drafty area. Although the transformation process may be slower, it helps preserve the true nature of the Pu'er tea.

4. Shade

By “shade,” we mean placing the Pu'er tea in an area where it is not directly exposed to sunlight. Try to minimize the impact of strong light on the Pu'er tea and avoid exposing it to a high-temperature environment for extended periods, especially during periods of high temperatures and humidity in southern regions.

High temperatures can easily cause Pu'er tea to lose its vitality and are not conducive to the tea's natural aging process. Over time, the tea may become “dead,” meaning it has lost its value for further storage and transformation.

5. Odor-Free Environment

All teas are extremely susceptible to absorbing other odors. Sometimes, tea leaves are even used to eliminate odors in homes. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea, it is important to note that tea readily absorbs foreign odors, and once absorbed, these odors cannot be reversed.

Therefore, strive to keep the storage environment clean and free of foreign odors, avoiding storing the tea near perfumes, cigarettes, alcohol, pickled vegetables, and other household items with strong odors. If it is not possible to have a dedicated tea room, at least separate the Pu'er tea from other sources of odor as much as possible.