Is There A Bad Tea?

by Tom Maynard
(Chicago IL USA)

What is my favorite type of tea? Without meaning to appear to be a smart alec: a freshly brewed cup!


There are so many types, with so many flavors, from a smoky, dark Lapsang Souchang ... to an earthy, even "fishy" Pu'er, it's hard to single out one "favorite."

I drink them all, trying to experience all the variety of teas. But the two I brew the most are Green and Oolong.

Of the greens I most enjoy Longjing, Biluochun and Japanese Gyokuro. These teas all share a grassy freshness (and Gyokuro a sweetness) that satisfy at any time of day. Just sniffing the freshly brewed tea is a treat ... tasting it is a treasure.

And the Oolongs: I love the lighter Pouchang, Tieguanyin, even Baijiguan. A cup wafting lilac or orchid scent is a joy to hold. Their mellow warmth is soothing, feeling silken on the palate.

For me the best cup of tea is 2.25 grams of loose tea for each 6 ounce (177 ml) cup of water at the proper temperature for the type of tea. I always weigh my tea to ensure consistent results, and I use an instant-read thermometer to guarantee proper temperature water (I can't help it: I was a chemist in a former life).

And there are so many! I have yet to explore the Black (Red) tea territory: I've never had a Keemun or Yunnan tea ... endless horizons await me.

Comments for Is There A Bad Tea?

Click here to add your own comments

Feb 01, 2008
Baijiguan and Longjing
by: Julian

Thomas, thank for your excellent post! I get very intrigued when you mention Baijiguan (White Rooster), which is one of the "white" green tea I mention in the article.

As regarding the Longjing tea, do you find any differences between the different grades (Jipin, AAA an AA)? Which grade do you like best?

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Share A Favorite!.

 


rss  Subscribe via RSS

twitter  Twitter Julian


Amazing Green Tea

The definitive guide to Gourmet Tea and healthy drinks
Tea Alert: Want teas that look good, taste good and feel good? Check out my top three recommendations!