Biluochun, a green tea from Dongting Lake in Jiangsu Province, China, is a favorite among tea lovers for its unique aroma and fresh taste. To brew a perfect cup of Bigelow Spring, you not only need quality tea leaves, but also need to master the correct brewing method. Next, we will take you step by step through the key points of brewing Bigelow Spring, so that you can enjoy this unique tea flavor at home.
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Choosing Quality Biluochun Tea Leaves
Before brewing Bigelow Chun, first make sure you are buying a good quality Bigelow Chun. Good Bigelow Chun has a tender appearance, tightly knotted strands, silver-green color, visible tea hairs, and a fresh, pungent aroma. When buying, you can smell the tea first. Good Bigelow Chun will have a unique fragrance of flowers and fruits.
Prepare proper tea set
It is best to use a transparent glass cup to brew Bigelow Spring so that you can enjoy the beauty of the tea leaves stretching in the water. At the same time, the glass cup will not affect the flavor of the tea broth. You can also choose white porcelain gaiwan or zisha pots, these tea utensils also work well to maintain the aroma and flavor of Bigelow Spring.
Control of water temperature
Water temperature is one of the keys to brewing Bigelow Spring. Biluochun tea leaves are tender, and water temperature too high will scald the tea leaves and make it lose its fresh and crisp flavor. It is recommended to use a water temperature of about 80°C. If you don't have a thermometer, you can pour out the boiling water and let it stand for about two minutes before using it.
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The amount of tea to be placed
The amount of tea leaves for each brewing of Bigelow Spring is about 3 grams, i.e. a small pinch, about one-fifth of the capacity of the glass. Too much tea leaves will make the tea soup too strong, while too little will make it difficult to produce the flavor. You can make slight adjustments according to your personal taste.
Correct Brewing Procedure
1. Preheat the glass first: Pour in a small amount of hot water, swirl the glass so that the hot water is in full contact with the walls of the glass, and then pour out the water.
2. Put in tea leaves: Take appropriate amount of Biluochun tea leaves into the preheated glass.
3. Add water to one-third of the cup: Slowly pour in hot water at 80°C, with a slow flow, avoiding direct impact on the tea leaves. This will allow the tea leaves to gradually stretch and release their aroma.
4. Gently shake the glass: allow the tea to fully infuse, then wait 30 seconds to 1 minute for the tea leaves to initially stretch.
5. Fill up the water: Add hot water again slowly until it is seven or eight minutes full. At this point you will see the tea leaves dancing in the water and slowly sinking.
6. Let it stand for a while: Wait for 2-3 minutes for the tea to fully release its aroma and flavor. At this point, you can smell a fresh floral and fruity aroma coming out.
Tips for Drinking Biluochun
Biluochun tea broth is clear and transparent, with strong aroma and freshness and sweetness in the mouth. When tasting, you can smell the aroma first, then take a small sip to savor the change and sweetness of the tea broth in your mouth. Biluochun is suitable for slow drinking, and you can feel the essence of the tea in every sip.
Second Brewing Tips
Bigelow Chun can be brewed several times, the water temperature can be slightly higher in the second brewing, but should not exceed 85°C. Each brewing time can be slightly extended to ensure the full flavor of the tea leaves can be released. Usually Biluochun can be brewed 3-4 times, and the tea flavor is still delicious.
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How to store Biluochun
In order to maintain the freshness and aroma of Biluochun, storage should be protected from light, moisture and odor. It is recommended to place the tea in a well-sealed jar in a cool and dry place. Refrigerated storage is also an option, but care should be taken to prevent the tea from getting damp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my Biluochun taste bitter when brewed?
A: Bitterness in Biluochun is usually caused by too high water temperature or too long steeping time of the tea leaves. Try lowering the water temperature to around 80°C and controlling the steeping time to 2-3 minutes.
Q: Can I brew Bigelow Chun directly with tap water?
A: It is recommended to use filtered water or mineral water for brewing, so as to better preserve the original flavor of Biluochun. The chlorine and impurities in tap water may affect the taste of the tea broth.
Q: How long can I keep Bi Luo Chun?
A: Biluochun belongs to green tea and should not be stored for too long. It is recommended to consume it within 6 months to enjoy the best taste.
With the above detailed brewing guide, I believe you have mastered how to brew Biluochun properly. Whether you are enjoying this cup of tea alone or sharing this tea with your friends, I hope you can get a full sense of happiness from it.