White Tea is often described by the saying, 'One year as tea, three years as medicine, seven years as treasure.' The longer white tea is stored, the higher its medicinal value, making it highly collectible.

Generally, tea has a shelf life of two years because, after that period, even if stored well, its aroma largely dissipates. White tea is an exception. Like raw Pu'er, it becomes more mellow and fragrant with age. It is often said that 'one year is tea, three years are medicine, seven years are treasure.' Typically, white tea aged five to six years is considered old, and tea over ten to twenty years is exceedingly rare.

In terms of brewing, top-grade Baihao Yinzhen can be brewed with 100°C boiling water and has high durability, retaining its delicate aroma even after a day of brewing. Ordinary Baihao Yinzhen should be brewed with 90°C water; using 100°C water may scorch the leaves, and it has lower durability, becoming bland after seven or eight infusions.

White Tea Brewing Methods

1. Cup Brewing: Suitable for solo drinking. Use a 200ml transparent glass, add 3-5g of tea, and rinse with about 90°C water to warm and aroma the leaves. Then brew directly with hot water, adjusting the time to personal taste.

2. Gaiwan Method: Ideal for two people. Place 3g of white tea in a gaiwan, rinse with 90°C water to warm and aroma, then brew like Gongfu tea: first infusion for 30-45 seconds, increasing time for subsequent infusions to enjoy the fresh taste.

3. Pot Brewing: Great for small gatherings. Use a large belly purple clay pot or a big capacity cup, add 5-6g of tea, rinse with about 90°C water to warm and aroma, and enjoy after 45 seconds. Characterized by a rich, honey-like fragrance.

4. Large Pot Method: Perfect for group drinking and all-day consumption. Add 10-15g of white tea to a large porcelain pot, brew directly with 90-100°C water, and refill as needed. White tea is durable and remains mild and aromatic even after long steeping, making it ideal for family summer refreshment.

5. Boiling Method: Suitable for health purposes. Boil 10g of aged white tea (over three years old) in water for 3 minutes until a strong brew is obtained. Let it cool to 70°C, add large rock sugar or honey, and drink hot. Often used to treat sore throats, reduce fever, or alleviate水土不服 (adaptation issues when traveling). The taste is uniquely mellow. It can also be chilled in summer for a different flavor.