Recently, the picking and production of West Lake Longjing has reached its peak. In Hangzhou, simply lift your head, close your eyes, and take a deep breath to be enveloped by the fresh and elegant aroma of Tea.
Tea enthusiasts have also started receiving their purchased West Lake Longjing tea. Upon opening the tea tin, the vibrant green color of spring greets the eye, followed by a rich aroma reminiscent of roasted beans.
How can you best brew this precious pre-ming West Lake Longjing tea to fully display its “green color, intense aroma, sweet taste, and beautiful shape”? This is a topic of concern for many.
To address this, we've compiled a brewing guide for you.
Method 1: Glass Cup Brewing
This method is recommended for those who prefer a stronger flavor. The tea's aroma is intense, the taste is robust, and it allows you to clearly observe the tea leaves as they sink and float in the cup.
Tea Quantity: 1.8–2.5g, using bottom placement method
Pre-soak: Use boiling water to awaken the aroma, just enough to cover the dry tea
Shake Aroma: Gently swirl the cup in your hand; the aroma will rise gently. Let it rest for 10–15 seconds until the leaves start to unfurl slightly
Water Temperature: 85-90°C
Refill: Use the root method, refill when the cup is down to 1/4–1/3 full. This ensures consistent strength across multiple infusions.
Method 2: Gaiwan Brewing
This method is suggested for those who prefer a lighter taste or enjoy a more ceremonial experience. It separates the tea from the water, producing a clear, fresh, and sweet infusion. Pairing it with a celadon gaiwan captures the essence of Jiangnan in every cup.
Tea Quantity: 3–4g
Pre-soak: Use boiling water to awaken the aroma, just enough to cover the dry tea
Shake Aroma: Open-lid shake to maintain the freshness and tenderness
First and Second Infusion: 85-90°C water temperature, steep for 5 seconds
Third Infusion: 85-90°C water temperature, steep for 10 seconds
The first three infusions are optimal for drinking
Fourth and Subsequent Infusions: Gradually increase the Steeping time according to taste
Method 3: Bowl Brewing Method
This method is recommended as the weather warms up, resulting in a soft and sweet infusion.
Tea Quantity: 4–5g
Pre-soak: Use boiling water to awaken the aroma, just enough to cover the dry tea
Shake Aroma: Gently swirl the bowl to mix the tea and water
Water Temperature: 85-90°C, fill the tea bowl to about 70% full
Waiting Time: Wait until the buds and leaves have fully unfurled before serving
Refill: When there is one-third of the water left in the bowl, leave some tea and add more water. For the second and third infusions, you may increase the waiting time slightly, which results in a more even flavor.