Tea tasting is a spiritual and artistic enjoyment, it lets us forget the troubles of the world and feel a sense of relaxation and joy. Sipping and savoring, the bitterness and fragrance reflect the ups and downs of life. The light and strong tea aroma brings us tranquility and happiness, just as the saying goes: tea is like life, and life is like tea!
Choose a teapot that matches the tealeaves. As the saying goes, a good horse needs a good saddle, and good tea leaves also need a good teapot. The quality of the teapot affects the tea-brewing effect. For example, porcelain teapots, which are high-density, brew tea with a clear and uplifting fragrance, suitable for green tea, scented tea, light tea, black tea, and other teas with a refreshing style. On the other hand, clay teapots, which are low-density, brew tea with a deep and mellow fragrance, making them suitable for Pu'er, Tieguanyin, Buddha's Hand, and other teas with a rich taste.
Choose an elegant environment. Tea brewing is not only about the utensils but also the surroundings. A serene and refined environment helps to slow down the mind and elevate the spirit. The combination of beautiful scenery and the aroma of tea is one of life's greatest pleasures.
Warm the teapot and cups before brewing. Before brewing, pour boiling water into the teapot and let it sit for three to four minutes. Then pour some of the water into the teacups and discard the rest. The purpose of this is to remove any odors from the teapot and to help release the tea's fragrance. Keep the warm water in the cups for three to four minutes before discarding it to warm the cups.
When brewing tea, it is best to pour from a high position and steep from a low position. Pouring from a high position means lifting the kettle high when brewing, allowing the water to pour into the teapot from a height. This helps the tea leaves roll and spread in the teapot, better releasing the tea's flavor. Steeping from a low position means keeping the spout close to the teacup when pouring to preserve the tea's aroma.
Observe the tea. When pouring water into the tea, you can enjoy the sight of the tea leaves tumbling in the water. While the tea is steeping, you can watch the leaves gradually unfold. After the tea is brewed, observe its color and visually appreciate its aroma.
Smell the tea's aroma. Before drinking, hold the cup under your nose and take a gentle breath to savor the tea's fragrance. You can also hold the cup parallel to your lips, with one hand holding the cup and the other gently gathering the tea's aroma toward your nose.
Taste the tea. When tasting, take a small sip and let it spread in your mouth. Close your eyes and slowly savor the tea's flavor. It is best to lower your head while tasting, as the area where the upper palate meets the nasal cavity is the most sensitive to aromas, allowing you to better appreciate the tea's fragrance.
Savor the aftertaste. After taking a sip of tea, do not rush to take another. First, savor the lingering aroma left in your mouth.