Yuan An Yellow Tea, a regional specialty of Yuan’an County in Hubei Province, China, bears the prestigious status of a nationally recognized agricultural geographical indication. Among the varieties of yellow tea, Lu Yuan Tea stands out as an exceptional gem. It takes its name from its place of origin, Lu Yuan Temple. This unique yellow tea boasts golden-hued leaves, visible white down, enduring aroma, and uniform, tender yellow leaves.
The Origin and Unique Characteristics
The region of Yuan An, where Yuan An Yellow Tea is cultivated, features a diverse topography with mountains, hills, and alluvial plains in its landscape. The soil quality is optimal, characterized by a balanced combination of sand and clay, with a moderate pH level. These conditions are well-suited for the growth of yellow tea, resulting in its characteristic circular-shaped leaves, golden color, bright yellow infusion, enchanting fragrance, and a unique and consistent leaf quality.
Historical Significance
The history of tea cultivation in Yuan An, the hometown of Leizu, the legendary inventor of silk, is rich and has earned the county the title of the “First County of Tea” in Lu Yu’s classic “The Classic of Tea.” This region is renowned for its yellow tea production, with the exceptional Lu Yuan Tea at its forefront. Lu Yuan Yellow Tea, represented by the delightful fragrance of orchids, the beautiful color, and a rich and mellow flavor, has earned the title of “Famous Tea of China” multiple times.
Lu Yuan Tea derives its name from the picturesque Lu Yuan Temple. In the first year of Baoqing in the Southern Song Dynasty (1225 AD), a temple was built at the foot of Lu Yuan Mountain, approximately seven kilometers northwest of Mingfeng Town in Yuan’an County. This area features fragrant orchids in secluded valleys, harmonious bird songs in the empty mountains, clear streams winding around the mountain’s base, and white clouds enveloping the mountaintop. Herds of deer frequently roam in the forests, creating a tranquil setting. Thus, the mountain was named Lu Yuan Mountain, the temple took the name Lu Yuan Temple, and the tea was called Lu Yuan Tea. This remarkable convergence of names, with mountain, temple, and tea all echoing one another, was seemingly preordained.
Brewing Method
To bring out the full flavor of Yuan An Yellow Tea, glass brewing is recommended. The following steps outline the ideal process:
- Warm the Cup: Start by rinsing a glass cup with boiling water at a temperature of 90°C or higher. This step serves not only to cleanse and disinfect the cup but also to preheat it. The amount of hot water used for rinsing should exceed one-third of the cup’s capacity, which facilitates the release of the tea’s aroma.
- Add the Tea: Place approximately 4 grams of Yuan An Yellow Tea leaves into the glass cup.
- Brewing: Pour in an appropriate amount of boiling water, roughly at a temperature of 85°C-90°C, filling the cup to about seven-eighths full. The recommended tea-to-water ratio is generally 1:50. The brewing process should last for approximately 20 seconds, after which the tea should be allowed to steep for an additional 2 minutes before drinking. This method yields a well-balanced Yuan An Yellow Tea with a captivating aroma.
Brewing Method of Yuan An Yellow Tea
- Pre-warm Tea Utensils: It’s advisable to pre-warm your tea utensils, and a rinse with water at approximately 85°C-90°C is suitable.
- Consider the Tea-to-Water Ratio: The quantity of tea leaves used should be balanced with your brewing vessel. Control the steeping time and adjust the tea’s strength according to your preference. Generally, a tea-to-water ratio of 1g:50ml works well.
Health Benefits of Yuan An Yellow Tea
- Digestive Aid: Yellow tea, as it undergoes fermentation during processing, generates a significant amount of digestive enzymes. This makes it beneficial for individuals with digestive issues, poor appetite, or those looking to manage their weight.
- Metabolism Enhancement: Yellow tea has the unique ability to penetrate fat cells, allowing them to regain metabolic function under the influence of digestive enzymes. This process helps the body break down and eliminate fat.
- Cancer Prevention: Yuan An Yellow Tea is rich in tea polyphenols, amino acids, soluble sugars, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. These components have been found to have a significant impact on preventing and treating esophageal cancer.
- Health-Boosting Compounds: The fresh leaves of Yuan An Yellow Tea retain over 85% of their natural compounds, which have demonstrated exceptional effects in cancer prevention, cancer treatment, antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory properties, and other health benefits. These unique qualities set it apart from other tea varieties.
In conclusion, Yuan An Lu Yuan, with its distinctive history, unique attributes, and numerous health benefits, is a remarkable addition to China’s rich tea culture. The exquisite Lu Yuan Yellow Tea, deeply rooted in history, presents not only a delightful sensory experience but also valuable health advantages, further enriching the world of tea. Enjoy a cup of Yuan An Yellow Tea to savor its unique flavors and historical significance.
