Fresh tea leaves are harvested and naturally aged without fermentation processing, known as raw tea. Raw tea has a stronger and more stimulating character, with newly produced or recently stored raw tea having a bitter and astringent taste, and a lighter or yellow-green liquor color. Raw tea can clear heat and reduce inflammation, making it suitable for summer consumption. Moreover, long-term storage has the characteristic of improving quality over time.

Pu'er tea undergoes fermentation during processing, making the tea character tend to be mild, called ripe tea. Ripe Pu'er has a gentle tea character that can warm the stomach. The tea liquor appears red, smooth, and rich in aroma, basically without bitterness or astringency. Drinking it in the evening won't cause sleeplessness.

In terms of taste, beginners can start with ripe tea.

Some people prefer the fresh fragrance and strong character of raw tea, while others like the mellow thickness and smoothness of ripe tea. The specific choice depends on personal preference, as tea drinking is a highly personalized matter. Moreover, tea drinking is originally an enjoyment; if you have to listen to others' opinions before enjoying it, it becomes uninteresting.

However, for most tea friends preparing to try Pu'er tea, I still have a suggestion - you can start by drinking ripe tea. Ripe tea undergoes fermentation processing, which eliminates the naturally cold nature of the tea leaves. The liquor color turns red and thick, the character becomes mild, suitable for all ages, and the taste becomes more acceptable.

For those just starting to接触 Pu'er, ripe tea is a gentle beginning that won't scare people away with its intense character like raw tea does.

As for raw tea, it can be used as an alternative to drinking ripe tea in daily life. Try it gradually, find the tea products that suit your taste, and find the brewing method that works for you, so you can better understand it.