China, the birthplace of tea culture, has a long history of cultivating and producing some of the world's most exquisite teas. Over time, ten exceptional teas have emerged as the crème de la crème, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. These "China Ten Great Teas" have captivated tea enthusiasts around the globe, not only for their taste but also for their rich cultural heritage.
Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea
Longjing tea is one of China's most renowned green teas, hailing from Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province. Its name comes from its resemblance to a dragon's spine when leaves are spread out on a flat surface. The tea leaves are pan-fried to prevent fermentation and then dried under sunlight or hot air to preserve their delicate flavor profile.
Gunpowder Green Tea
This green tea originates from Zhejiang Province and is named due to its small pellets resembling gunpowder grains after being rolled into tight spheres by hand. The rolling process helps lock in freshness while preserving its subtle floral notes.
Keemun Hao Ya Black Tea
Keemun Hao Ya black tea hails from Anhui Province and represents one-third of China's total black tea production. This smooth-tasting black tea boasts complex flavors ranging from fruity hints to hints of chocolate due to an extensive oxidation period during processing.
4.Tieguanyin Oolong Tea
Tieguanyin oolong hails from Anxi County in Fujian Province and translates as 'Iron Goddess,' reflecting both the color change during roasting and the mythological goddess Guanyin associated with it.
Oolongs like Tieguanyin undergo partial fermentation before drying which allows them to capture elements between green & black teas resulting in diverse aromas that can range anywhere between honeyed sweetness & fruitiness.
5.Meng Ding Gan Lu White Tea
Meng Ding Gan Lu white tea originates from Sichuan Province where it is grown at high altitudes under misty conditions that promote slow growth rate among Camellia sinensis var assamica plants used for this type.
It requires meticulous handling during harvesting – only young buds picked early morning when dewdrops still cling onto them are considered suitable for this premium white variety.
Ganlu means 'sweet dew' describing how these unfermented leaves retain natural moisture within themselves giving rise sweet yet refreshing taste experience upon infusion without bitterness or any hint thereof.
6.Yunnan Gold Pu-erh Tea
Yunnan Gold Pu-erh is a fermented post-fermentation pu-erh produced mainly in Yunnan province’s Xishuangbanna region; hence named so because golden brown leaf appearance dominates throughout aging process making it highly sought-after by connoisseurs worldwide.
Pu'erhs undergo two stages - first stage involves initial fermentation followed by pressing into various shapes; second stage takes place over several years involving gradual aging that results in earthy undertones combined with mellowing out bitterness creating depthful complexity allowing drinkers adaptively enjoy whether brewed straight or blended together with other varieties within same category leading many aficionados discovering new ways they can appreciate this ancient art form born centuries ago right here amidst lush Chinese landscapes full lifeblood pulsating beneath ancient trees towering above rice fields glistening raindrops falling gently upon countless tiny terraces etched meticulously across steep hillsides stretching far beyond horizon line waiting eagerly witness next harvest season arrive bringing fresh batch new opportunities explore limitless potential hidden amongst these 10 extraordinary brews originating land dragons dance gracefully skies unfolding tales thousands years old stories whispered lips generations past present future intertwined seamlessly forming essence what makes china truly stand apart among all lands known our beloved motherland