After Phoenix Dancong tea is produced, we judge when it can be consumed based on the degree of roasting. Lightly roasted Dancong tea can be generally consumed after being stored for 3-5 days to allow the fire to dissipate. On the contrary, heavily roasted tea requires a longer time for the fire to subside, usually at least about a week.
Classification by Degree of Roasting:
Light-Fragrance Type
Refers generally to lightly roasted tea. The aroma is typically excellent within three months, and if stored properly, it remains outstanding for 2-3 years. Examples include Xuepian tea, autumn tea, and lightly roasted spring teas (commonly featuring varieties famous for their strong fragrance like Ya Shi Xiang, Da Wu Ye, Gong Xiang, Ye Lai Xiang, etc.).
Mellow-Fragrance Type
Refers generally to tea leaves roasted with medium heat. This type of tea typically exhibits both a rich aroma and a fresh fragrance, with a pleasant taste that is much loved by tea enthusiasts. With the increased degree of roasting, the aroma and flavor of the tea are brought to perfection, with the best drinking period being within three years. When properly sealed and stored, mellow-fragrance Dancong tea becomes smoother over two years, and its aroma deepens into the tea liquor.
Strong-Fragrance Type
Refers generally to tea leaves roasted with high heat. This type of tea requires a relatively long time for the fire flavor to dissipate, but the tea is suitable for longer storage. The best drinking period is generally between 3-5 years. The main varieties of this roasting style include Shuixian, Baxian, Mi Lan Xiang, Da Wu Ye, and Ao Fu Hou, among others.
Most Dancong teas share a common characteristic: they develop a richer taste over time due to post-fermentation. However, it’s somewhat oversimplified to claim that Dancong tea can be stored indefinitely. This is because after a certain storage period, the tea will begin to exhibit aged flavors. Typically, aged flavors become noticeable after more than five years, which is why we often recommend a storage duration of 3-5 years.
The moisture content of Phoenix Dancong tea after refinement is 3.5%~4.5%, not exceeding 5%, and it does not require refrigeration for storage. When storing at home, it is important to consider four factors: moisture-proofing, light-proofing, avoiding breakage, and odor prevention.
1. Using Sealable Purple Clay or Ceramic Containers
These types of containers, especially purple clay tea canisters, are the most suitable for storing loose Pu'er tea. They can block light, prevent moisture, and the unique breathability of purple clay vessels can assist in the transformation and aging of raw Pu'er tea.
First, clean the purple clay container thoroughly, and once it is dry, you can store loose Pu'er tea in it.
Note that while purple clay containers are excellent at blocking light and preventing moisture, you should still avoid direct sunlight to prevent the container from overheating. Also, due to the micro-porous structure of purple clay, it is essential to prevent the storage environment from containing odors.
2. Using Cardboard Boxes for Storage
Although purple clay containers are ideal for storing loose Pu'er tea, they can be expensive. If you need to store a large amount of tea, cardboard boxes are a viable alternative.
Choose boxes with good thickness and strength. First, place the loose Pu'er tea into clean, food-grade plastic bags or aluminum foil bags, and then place these into the cardboard box for storage.
*Storage Tips:*
Do not place the cardboard box directly on the floor, as it can absorb ground moisture. Ideally, place it on a shelf or inside a cabinet.
Avoid direct sunlight.
Avoid placing the cardboard box in environments with mixed odors, such as kitchens or dining areas.
