Regional Varieties of Green Tea in China
China, renowned for its rich tea culture, produces an impressive array of green tea varieties, each with unique characteristics influenced by regional climates, soil types, and cultivation methods. The nuances of flavor, aroma, and appearance present in these teas reflect the diverse geographic features across the country. Below, we explore various regional varieties of green tea in China, delving into their specific attributes and brewing methods.
1. Longjing (Dragon Well) – Zhejiang Province
Origin: Longjing tea hails from the Hangzhou region in Zhejiang Province.
Characteristics: This tea is known for its flat, sword-shaped leaves that are jade green in color. It has a delicate aroma with a sweet, nutty flavor profile, often described as having a slight chestnut-like taste.
Growing Conditions: Grown at high altitudes, Longjing thrives in the rich, loamy soils of the region, nurtured by the sub-tropical climate.
Brewing: Ideal water temperature for brewing is around 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit). Use approximately 2 grams of leaves per 100 milliliters of water and steep for 2-3 minutes.
2. Biluochun (Green Snail Spring) – Jiangsu Province
Origin: This tea is primarily produced in the Dongting Mountain area of Jiangsu Province.
Characteristics: Biluochun features tightly rolled, spiral-shaped leaves resembling snails. It is praised for its floral fragrance and fruity taste with a hint of sweetness, sometimes compared to apricot.
Growing Conditions: With a humid and mild climate, along with fertile soil, the conditions in Dongting Mountain are perfect for cultivating Biluochun.
Brewing: Brew using water at 85 degrees Celsius (185 degrees Fahrenheit) with a steeping time of 1-2 minutes using 3 grams of tea leaves for 150 milliliters of water.
3. Huangshan Maofeng (Yellow Mountain Fur Peak) – Anhui Province
Origin: Huangshan Maofeng comes from the Huangshan Mountain area in Anhui Province.
Characteristics: Recognized for its smooth, soft taste with a lingering sweetness, the leaves are pale green and covered with fine white hairs.
Growing Conditions: The mountainous terrain and cool climate contribute to the growth of this exquisite green tea.
Brewing: Brew at a lower temperature of around 75 degrees Celsius (167 degrees Fahrenheit) using about 2 grams per 100 milliliters, and steep for 2-3 minutes for optimal flavor extraction.
4. Taiping Houkui (Taiping Monkey King) – Anhui Province
Origin: Another gem from Anhui, Taiping Houkui is cultivated near the Taiping Lake region.
Characteristics: This tea is recognized for its long, flat leaves and bright green color. It offers a unique floral aroma alongside a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor.
Growing Conditions: The combination of rich soil, ample sunlight, and regulated moisture levels make this an ideal growing region.
Brewing: Use water at approximately 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit); steep for 2-4 minutes with about 3-5 grams of tea leaves for a pot of 150 milliliters.
5. Lu’an Gua Pian (Lu’an Melon Seed) – Anhui Province
Origin: Lu’an Gua Pian is produced in the Lu’an region of Anhui Province.
Characteristics: This tea showcases a unique appearance with flat, oval leaves that resemble melon seeds. It delivers a rich, mellow flavor with a pronounced umami character.
Growing Conditions: Thriving under ideal microclimatic conditions, this tea benefits from the region’s abundant rains and advantageous soil.
Brewing: Brew using 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit) water, steeping for 3-4 minutes with about 3 grams of leaves.
6. Xinyang Maojian – Henan Province
Origin: Xinyang Maojian is produced mainly in the Xinyang area of Henan Province.
Characteristics: It has tightly rolled leaves that are dark green and produce a bright green liquor with a sweet, fresh flavor complemented by a slight edge of bitterness.
Growing Conditions: The region’s higher altitudes contribute to the cultivation of high-quality tea leaves.
Brewing: Ideal brew temperature is around 85 degrees Celsius (185 degrees Fahrenheit), steeped for 2 minutes with approximately 2-3 grams of tea leaves.
7. Qimen (Keemun) – Anhui Province
Origin: Keemun tea is from the Qimen County in Anhui Province.
Characteristics: Although technically a black tea, its production method aligns closely with green teas. It’s celebrated for its rich, bold flavor and fragrant aroma with hints of floral and smoky undertones.
Growing Conditions: The specific climatic conditions of the region, including mild climate and fertile soils, are perfect for growing tea plants.
Brewing: For brewing, use 90 degrees Celsius (194 degrees Fahrenheit) water, steeping for 3-4 minutes using 3 grams of tea leaves for 200 milliliters.
8. Enshi Yulu (Enshi Jade Dew) – Hubei Province
Origin: Enshi Yulu is cultivated in the Enshi region of Hubei Province.
Characteristics: Known for its delicate aroma and gentle, sweet flavor, Enshi Yulu is characterized by a jade-green liquor.
Growing Conditions: High humidity and frequent rainfall contribute to the uniqueness of the tea. It is often grown in biodiversity, incorporating traditional cultivation methods.
Brewing: Ideal brew temperature is at 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit). Use 2 grams of leaves per 100 milliliters and steep for 1-2 minutes.
9. Sichuan Green Tea – Sichuan Province
Origin: Various green tea varieties come from the Sichuan Province, including Bingshan and Zigong teas.
Characteristics: Often characterized by their aromatic qualities and mild flavors, these teas can range from sweet to brisk with a floral scent.
Growing Conditions: Sichuan’s diverse topography and climate create suitable conditions for growing various tea cultivars.
Brewing: The perfect brewing temperature is around 85 degrees Celsius (185 degrees Fahrenheit), with a steeping time of 2-3 minutes after using about 2-3 grams of tea leaves per 150 milliliters.
10. Hunan Green Tea – Hunan Province
Origin: Hunan is known for its Liuan tea, among other varieties.
Characteristics: Liuan boasts a full-bodied flavor with a slightly pungent aroma, often leaving a refreshing aftertaste.
Growing Conditions: The mountainous regions and acidic soil in Hunan favor tea cultivation.
Brewing: Heat water to about 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit). Brew with 3 grams of tea leaves and steep for 3 minutes for best results.
11. Gansu Green Tea – Gansu Province
Origin: Gansu’s green teas, such as Jinchuan, are less known but highly regarded for their quality.
Characteristics: They often have a robust flavor, featuring earthy undertones with a subtle sweetness.
Growing Conditions: High altitudes and a dry climate contribute to the health of tea plants in Gansu.
Brewing: Use water at 85 degrees Celsius (185 degrees Fahrenheit) for steeping. Allow for 2-3 minutes with about 3 grams of tea leaves.
12. Fujian Green Tea – Fujian Province
Origin: Fujian Province produces several high-quality green teas, including the famous Maojian.
Characteristics: Fujian green teas typically have a bright green color and a smooth, clear taste with floral notes.
Growing Conditions: The subtropical climate and well-drained soils of Fujian facilitate the growth of diverse tea varieties.
Brewing: For best results, brew at 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit) with 3 grams of leaves for 2-3 minutes.
Conclusion
The regional varieties of green tea in China demonstrate a spectrum of tastes, aromas, and visuals that characterize the nation’s diverse topography and climatic conditions. Each tea variety reflects the unique art of cultivation that has been refined over centuries. Exploring these varieties not only provides a journey through Chinese culture but also enhances our understanding and appreciation of tea as a craft.
