Nanjing Yuhua Tea is a renowned specialty of Nanjing, China, classified as a type of green tea. Its cultivation history can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty, with mentions in Lu Yu’s “The Classic of Tea.” This exceptional tea has received recognition as a silver medalist at the China Food Expo and is considered one of China’s classic teas.
Nanjing Yuhua Tea is a prized green tea variety known for its unique characteristics. It is one of the “Three Needles” teas in China, characterized by its high-quality, slender, needle-shaped leaves. The tea is harvested during the ten days leading up to Qingming, only selecting one bud and one leaf measuring 2 to 3 centimeters in length. The leaves undergo a meticulous process of withering, rolling, shaping, and drying, with a distinctive step of being hand-fried in wu bai oil. Each batch of tea is limited to 250 grams.
Nanjing Yuhua Tea is recognized for its emerald green color, delicate fragrance, and sweet, mellow taste. When brewed, the tea leaves unfurl in hot water, creating a clear, vibrant green infusion with a refreshing and soothing aroma. It leaves a rich and sweet aftertaste, making it an exceptional choice for tea enthusiasts.
History
The history of Yuhua Tea production dates back centuries. The city of Nanjing had been cultivating tea since the Tang Dynasty, with references in Lu Yu’s “The Classic of Tea.” Legend has it that tea was grown around the Quixia Temple in the area.
In the “Broad Commentary on the Former Events at Guangling” from the Jin Dynasty, there is a story of a woman who sold “Yuhua Tea” in the streets of Guangling during the reign of Emperor Yuan of Jin. This tea was so popular that the pot of tea she carried never seemed to deplete, no matter how much she poured. The elderly woman donated all the money she earned from selling tea to help the poor. Her selflessness was discovered, and she was taken into custody. However, the next morning, she had disappeared.
This historical background, along with the region’s lush tea gardens, paved the way for Yuhua Tea to become an iconic local product. The tea leaves are characterized by their vibrant color, elegant fragrance, and a mellow and full-bodied flavor. The leaves are tightly rolled, and the infusion is a brilliant green color with even and bright leaves at the bottom of the cup.
By the Qing Dynasty, tea cultivation had expanded across both banks of the Yangtze River.
Brewing Method of Nanjing Yuhua Tea
- Begin by rinsing the tea cup with hot water to enhance the color, fragrance, and taste of the tea. Then, pour hot water into the cup, add the tea leaves, and leave the cup uncovered. The brewing process for Yuhua Tea is relatively simple compared to oolong tea. Regardless of the brewing method you choose, it’s essential to rinse the cup to enhance the tea’s qualities.
- Allow the tea infusion to cool to an enjoyable temperature. This is the first infusion. In tea evaluation, the optimal temperature for drinking and smelling the tea is 45-55°C. Temperatures above 60°C may scald your mouth and nose, while temperatures below 40°C will result in a less fragrant tea. If using a glass cup, feel the temperature with your hand, and when it’s suitable, start sipping. For lidded cups, pour out a small amount to check the temperature on the back of your hand.
- After the first infusion, if the tea leaves still occupy about one-third of the cup, you can add more hot water for the second infusion. The second infusion is still rich, leaving a lingering sweetness on your palate. The third infusion is when the tea’s flavor starts to fade.
Health Benefits
Nanjing Yuhua Tea offers various health benefits due to its rich content of tea polyphenols, vitamins, and antioxidants:
- Anti-Aging: Yuhua Tea has anti-aging properties, helping to combat oxidative stress and free radicals. Regular consumption can contribute to youthful and healthy skin.
- Weight Management: Tea polyphenols help reduce blood lipid levels, enhance digestion, and contribute to weight loss by reducing intestinal fat absorption.
- Mental Alertness: Yuhua Tea contains caffeine and theanine, which stimulate the central nervous system, enhancing mental alertness and reducing drowsiness. It is a great choice for staying awake and focused during spring and summer when fatigue may set in.
- Cardiovascular Health: The high catechin content in Yuhua Tea is linked to improved cardiovascular health by inhibiting the development of atherosclerosis and reducing cholesterol levels.
- Oral Health: Yuhua Tea contains fluoride, which enhances oral health by preventing cavities and strengthening teeth. Rinsing with overnight Yuhua Tea can lead to whiter teeth.
- Radiation Protection: Tea polyphenols in Yuhua Tea have been shown to absorb and bind to radioactive substances, potentially offering protection against radiation exposure.
- Hangover Remedy: Yuhua Tea can help with alcohol detoxification, promoting the metabolism of alcohol and reducing hangover symptoms.
It’s important to enjoy Yuhua Tea responsibly, avoid drinking it on an empty stomach before or after meals, and be cautious about over-brewing to fully experience its health benefits. Yuhua Tea provides a holistic wellness experience with a combination of taste and health advantages.
