Rock tea, this name may be both familiar and mysterious to tea lovers. It is known for its unique "rocky bone and flowery flavor", and is the best of the Chinese oolong teas. But what kind of tea is rock tea? What are its characteristics? Let's go into the world of rock tea and unravel its mystery.
Origin of Rock Tea
Rock Tea, also known as Wuyi Rock Tea, is one of the top ten famous teas in China and belongs to a kind of oolong tea. It is produced in Wuyi Mountain in Fujian Province, where the mountains are stacked and the climate is warm and humid, which is very suitable for the growth of tea trees. The unique geography of Wuyi Mountain creates the unique rocky flavor of rock tea, a flavor that cannot be imitated by tea from other places.
Definition and Classification of Rock Tea
Rock Tea, as the name suggests, is named after the saying "there is tea in the rock, not the rock is not tea". It belongs to the semi-fermented tea, which is what we often call oolong tea. Oolong tea is one of the wonders of Chinese tea culture, between green tea and black tea, both the fragrance of green tea, and the mellow black tea. The main production area of Rock Tea is located in the Wuyi Mountain tea region of Fujian, China, where the unique geographical environment and climatic conditions give Rock Tea its unrivaled quality.
Characteristics of Wuyi Rock Tea
Types of Rock Tea
Rock tea is rich and diverse, and can be divided into the following main categories:
- Da Hong Gao, the Great Red Robe (tea)Dahongpao is the most famous rock tea, known as the "King of Teas". The Dahongpao tea tree grows on steep rock walls, making it difficult to pick, and the tea is of the highest quality, with a unique orchid aroma and rich flavor.
- person who wanders abroad and does not return: The leaves of Shui Xian Rock Tea are plump, the tea broth shows a deep amber color, the taste is mellow and the aroma is high, with a unique flower and fruit fragrance.
- coriander: Cinnamon Rock Tea is named for its strong cinnamon flavor. The tea soup is orange in color, with mellow taste and long-lasting sweetness.
- white crown: This is a relatively rare rock tea with a bright tea broth, clear aroma, and a delicate, soft taste.
Characteristics of Rock Tea
Rock tea has very unique characteristics, which is why it is so popular among tea lovers:
- rocky rhymeThe "rocky flavor" of rock tea refers to the fact that the tea leaves have absorbed minerals from the rocks during the growth process, giving the tea a unique flavor. This flavor is unforgettable and memorable.
- fragrance: Rock tea has a rich variety of aromas, ranging from floral to fruity to distinctive mineral notes, each of which is intoxicating.
- flavor: Rock tea has a strong, mellow flavor, smooth mouthfeel and long-lasting aftertaste, giving a rich taste experience.
How to Taste Rock Tea
Tasting rock tea is a kind of enjoyment, and you need to be attentive to every change in it. Here are a few steps to savor rock tea:
- color observationFirst of all, observe the shape of rock tea and the color of tea broth. High-quality rock tea has a tight shape, and the tea broth is clear and bright.
- scent: During the brewing process, carefully smell the aroma emanating from the tea leaves and feel the unique fragrance of rock tea.
- good taste: Savor the flavor of the tea broth and feel the thickness and sweetness of rock tea.
- ponder over: Feeling the aftertaste of the tea in your mouth after tasting it is one of the most fascinating aspects of rock tea.
How to Preserve Rock Tea
The preservation of rock tea is also very delicate, here are some tips for preserving rock tea:
- Keep away from light: Rock tea should be stored in a place protected from direct sunlight.
- seal and preserve: Rock tea tends to absorb odors, so it should be stored in an airtight container to prevent it from mixing with the odors of other items.
- preserve at low temperature: When conditions permit, rock tea can be stored in a low-temperature environment to maintain its freshness and aroma.
concluding remarks
Rock tea, as the best of oolong tea, is not only a drink, but also a culture and an art. It contains the aura of Wuyi Mountain and carries the deep heritage of Chinese tea culture. Whether you are a novice tea drinker or a veteran tea drinker, you can find your own share of peace and enjoyment in the world of rock tea. If you haven't tried rock tea yet, you may want to start with a cup of Dahongpao and feel the unique flavor and endless sweetness brought by this cup of tea.