As the scorching summer arrives, many Tea enthusiasts may overlook small details when storing their teas due to the unique climate of the season. It's all too easy to inadvertently ruin good tea. Do you know what precautions to take when storing tea in summer? How can you avoid common mistakes and ensure your tea ages beautifully?

Misconception One: Storing Loose Tea Instead of Compressed tea

Experienced tea connoisseurs know that compared to loose tea, Pu'er compressed tea has natural advantages such as smaller volume, better storage durability, and less susceptibility to spoilage. Therefore, for long-term storage, it is recommended to store compressed forms like brick tea, cake tea, or tuo cha. Conversely, if you're planning short-term consumption, storing a small amount of loose tea is acceptable.

Misconception Two: Exposing Tea to Direct Sunlight

During the summer, heavy rains are common, and some tea lovers fear that their tea might absorb moisture and become damp. They might then decide to place the tea directly in the sun to evaporate any excess moisture. However, intense sunlight can cause oxidation in the tea, leading to browning (experiments show that for every 10°C increase in temperature, the rate of browning increases by 3 to 5 times), and the development of a sun-dried flavor, which negatively impacts the taste. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea, it's important to keep it away from direct light.

Misconception Three: Using Inappropriate Tea Storage Containers

Storing tea should be adapted to local conditions. In cities located along the southern coast, the unique geographical location means they are more susceptible to weather events like plum rains, heavy rains, and typhoons during the summer, combined with high humidity. In these areas, it is not advisable to use highly breathable tea storage containers; instead, a more sealed storage method (relatively) should be used, and the tea should be stored off the ground.

For home storage, plastic bags, airtight bags, cardboard boxes, or the original packaging (such as bamboo sheaths) can be used.

Misconception Four: Storing Tea in the Refrigerator or Freezing Pu'er Tea

Some tea enthusiasts might store Pu'er tea in the refrigerator, following the practice for Green Tea and lightly oxidized Oolong tea. However, the value of Pu'er tea lies in its ability to age and improve over time. To bring out this characteristic, it is recommended to store it at room temperature (around 25°C with an air humidity of about 75%). Storing tea at low temperatures can inhibit the activity of biological enzymes, affecting or even halting the aging process, making it difficult to achieve the drinking and collection value of Pu'er tea.

Misconception Five: Storing Raw and Ripe Teas Together

Sometimes, we might neglect the differences between raw and ripe teas and store them together. This small oversight can lead to flavor contamination.