Brewing Loose-leaf Raw Pu-erh Tea

Loose-leaf raw Pu-erh tea is mainly divided into two categories: new tea and aged tea, with aged tea generally consisting of mid-aged tea.

Sun-dried pu-erh loose-lef tea in the new tea stage, such as tea stored for about 1 to 4 years, is characterized by a prominent fragrance and a fresh, brisk taste in the tea liquor. Especially for new tea from the current year, some leaves may still have a slight raw taste, but this will diminish or disappear as it ages and transforms during storage.

When brewing new raw tea, it is recommended to use a gaiwan. Opt for one with a slightly larger capacity, such as around 150 milliliters, or use slightly fewer tea leaves. This allows the tea leaves more space to unfold, enabling the flavors of the tea liquor to be better infused.

The water temperature can be just-boiled water, allowed to sit for a few seconds before pouring. Pour water in using a steady high stream, which helps to better release the tea's fragrance. After pouring, for the first few brews, there is no need for steeping time—pour the water and decant it immediately. As the number of brews increases, you can slightly extend the steeping time, which helps achieve a more balanced flavor and taste in the tea liquor.

Throughout the brewing process, it's advisable to leave the lid slightly open, as the taste of new tea is primarily fresh and fragrant. Leaving the lid open prevents the tea leaves from becoming stewed, thereby enhancing the fragrance and flavor of the tea liquor.

For loose raw Pu-erh materials that have been aged for a slightly longer period, such as 5 to 8 years or more, the taste is markedly different from new tea. The aroma is predominantly honey-like, and the tea liquor has a richer and smoother taste.

To better showcase the honey fragrance and the rich, mellow flavor of the tea liquor, it is recommended to use a Yixing clay teapot for brewing. You can directly use boiling water to brew aged loose-leaf tea stored for about 5 to 8 years. Use a steady high pour to better enhance the fragrance of the tea liquor.

During the brewing process, leave the teapot lid slightly ajar at the spout to allow the tea leaves to breathe.