Zhangping Narcissus Tea, a name that sounds mysterious and elegant. For many tea enthusiasts, it may not be very familiar, but in fact, it is the only compressed oolong tea in China. This article will take you on an in-depth exploration of this unique tea, from its history and manufacturing process to tasting methods, revealing its mysteries one by one.

What Is Zhangping Narcissus Tea?

Zhangping Narcissus Tea, as the name suggests, is produced in Zhangping City, Fujian Province. It belongs to the category of oolong teas, but unlike ordinary oolong teas, it exists in the form of Compressed tea cakes. The production history of Zhangping Narcissus Tea dates back to the Qing Dynasty. Due to its unique geographical environment and traditional tea-making techniques, this tea has distinctive characteristics in terms of aroma, Taste, and appearance.

The Historical Origins of Zhangping Narcissus Tea

The cultivation history of Zhangping Narcissus Tea can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, tea cultivation here had reached a considerable scale, with specialized Tea processing workshops established. Zhangping City is located in central-southern Fujian, where the natural conditions are ideal, with a subtropical monsoon climate providing an ideal environment for tea growth. The manufacturing process of Zhangping Narcissus Tea was uniquely developed by tea expert Deng Guanjing in 1914, making these tea cakes a truly unique existence in the world.

The Manufacturing Process of Zhangping Narcissus Tea

The production process of Zhangping Narcissus Tea is highly meticulous, from picking to the final tea cake:

1. Picking and Withering: The timing and method of picking directly affect the quality of the tea leaves. Typically, picking occurs during the early morning or late evening to ensure the freshness of the leaves. After picking, the leaves undergo withering to lose some of their moisture.
2. Shaking and Sunning (Qing Making): This step combines the techniques used in northern and southern Fujian oolong teas, including shaking and sunning. The purpose of qing making is to promote chemical reactions within the tea leaves, enhancing the tea's aroma.
3. Fixation and Rolling: Fixation involves high temperatures to destroy the enzymes in the tea leaves, halting fermentation. Rolling shapes the tea leaves and causes the tea juice to seep out, increasing the concentration of the tea infusion.
4. Molding and Shaping: The rolled tea leaves are placed in specially designed wooden molds and pressed into tea cakes. This process requires traditional wooden molds and hand skills to ensure the tea cakes are neatly shaped and attractive.
5. Baking: Baking is the last and most critical step in the production of Zhangping Narcissus Tea. Traditionally, charcoal baking techniques are used, starting at a temperature of 90-100°C and gradually decreasing until the tea cakes are completely dried.

It combines the methods used for northern Fujian Narcissus and southern Fujian Tieguanyin, going through processes such as withering, qing making, fixation, rolling, and finally, being pressed into square tea cakes using wooden molds. This unique pressing technique makes Zhangping Narcissus Tea the only compressed tea among oolong teas. The tea cakes have a flat shape, an ancient appearance, and both technological content and market appeal, making them convenient for travel.

Tasting Zhangping Narcissus Tea

When tasting Zhangping Narcissus Tea, consider the following aspects:

1. Appearance: Zhangping Narcissus Tea typically comes in square tea cakes, with a dark green color and a smooth surface.
2. Aroma: Its aroma is unique, with distinct floral and fruity notes that are captivating.
3. Infusion: The tea infusion has a golden-yellow hue and a rich, full-bodied flavor with complex layers.
4. Leaf Bottom: The leaf bottom is tender and evenly green, fully showcasing the quality of the tea leaves.

How to Brew Zhangping Narcissus Tea

The brewing method for Zhangping Narcissus Tea is quite particular. It is recommended to use a Gaiwan or a purple clay pot to fully release the aroma and taste of the tea:

1. Warming the Pot: Before brewing, warm the teaware with hot water to increase its temperature.
2. Adding the Tea: Place a tea cake in the pot, add a small amount of hot water, and quickly pour it off to rinse the tea.
3. Brewing: Pour hot water at 85-90°C into the pot; the first infusion should steep for about 20 seconds, with each subsequent infusion increasing by approximately 5 seconds.
4. Tasting: When pouring the tea, smell the aroma first, then savor the taste, appreciating the unique charm of Zhangping Narcissus Tea.

The Health Benefits of Zhangping Narcissus Tea

Zhangping Narcissus Tea is not only delightful in taste but also offers numerous health benefits. Rich in polyphenols and catechins, it helps with antioxidant activity, boosts immunity, aids digestion, and supports weight loss. Additionally, moderate consumption of Zhangping Narcissus Tea can help lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

The History and Culture of Zhangping Narcissus Tea

Zhangping Narcissus Tea is not just a rare treasure among teas; it is also a calling card for Zhangping City. Over the years, the Zhangping municipal government and tea farmers have been committed to protecting and inheriting this traditional craft, promoting Zhangping Narcissus Tea through various tea competitions and tastings. In 2009, Zhangping Narcissus Tea received national agricultural product geographical indication protection, which not only increased its market recognition but also brought better economic benefits to tea farmers.

Conclusion

As the only compressed oolong tea in China, Zhangping Narcissus Tea attracts more and more tea lovers with its unique manufacturing process and enchanting aroma and taste. If you haven't tried this tea yet, give it a taste; its unique flavor is sure to captivate you.