Pu'er Tea is a type of tea that is relatively easy to store, and its aroma and flavor become richer over time. However, many tea enthusiasts do not pay attention to the correct storage methods, which can lead to their Pu'er tea developing unwanted flavors or becoming damp. Today, we will guide you on how to properly store Pu'er tea.

Pu'er Tea Storage Methods

1. Original Packaging

Pu'er tea cakes are initially packaged with bamboo shells and kraft paper, which isolate the tea from the outside environment while maintaining a stable internal condition. Unopened Pu'er tea cakes can be stored in their original packaging without covering or wrapping them with any additional items, allowing the tea to naturally settle and mature.

2. Terracotta Jar

Pu'er tea cakes can be stored at home using large-mouthed terracotta jars. Choose a jar with good airtightness and a large enough mouth to fit the tea cake directly. Place the tea cake against the edge of the Ceramic jar, and put a packet of lime powder in the center to absorb moisture. Press the tea cake down onto the lime powder, fill the jar almost completely, and then seal it for storage.

3. Cardboard Box

Unopened Pu'er tea cakes can be arranged and placed in a dry cardboard box. Once the box is full, place it on a wooden shelf near the ground, ensuring the back does not touch the wall. The cardboard box is naturally dry, so no desiccant is needed when it's kept away from the ground and walls.

4. Plastic Bag

Pu'er tea cakes can also be stored directly in sealable plastic bags. It is best to use bags with a seal strip and good airtightness, such as tin foil bags, or bags suitable for microwave use. After placing the tea cake in the bag, squeeze out the air inside, seal it, and then place another bag over it in the opposite direction, tying the opening tightly for storage.

Pu'er Tea Storage Precautions

1. When storing Pu'er tea, the tea itself should be relatively dry. Professional experiments have shown that a moisture content of 9% in the tea sample is ideal for storage, which can serve as a reference. However, not everyone can easily determine the moisture content of the tea, so for ordinary tea enthusiasts, purchasing tea from reputable and well-regarded tea companies is a reliable approach.

2. Avoid high relative humidity. Professional studies indicate that an average humidity level of 65% can maintain the moisture content of the tea. Generally speaking, an air humidity below 75% (high humidity) can be considered a relatively safe humidity for tea storage. Humidity levels are influenced by numerous factors, and regions with coastal areas, abundant vegetation, and high rainfall tend to have higher air humidity. In humid areas, maintaining ventilation can help reduce air humidity to some extent.

3. Avoid Odors. Tea is susceptible to absorbing odors, which can affect its aroma, so it's important to avoid storing it near strong odors.

4. Store at Room Temperature. Natural aging occurs at room temperature. Higher temperatures can accelerate the transformation of tea. Research has shown that storing Pu'er raw tea at 37 degrees Celsius leads to initial notes of aged fragrance followed by Sweetness, whereas handling at 55 degrees Celsius results in an initial jujube aroma followed by an acidic flavor.

5. Maintain Ventilation. Ventilation has a significant impact on the quality of the tea, and adequate airflow promotes the aging process of Pu'er tea.