Baskadia

In the vast landscape of Chinese tea, certain varieties stand out not just for their flavor but for the stories and traditions they carry. Among these, Tie Guan Yin Tea and Bi Luo Chun Green Tea hold special places as embodiments of the historical depth and cultural richness of Chinese tea culture. This article delves into the nuances of these two teas, comparing their origins, processing methods, flavors, and the best ways to enjoy them.

Tie Guan Yin Tea: The Iron Goddess of Mercy

Origin and Legends Tie Guan Yin Tea, translating to "Iron Goddess of Mercy," is an oolong tea that originates from Anxi in Fujian Province. The legend says that in the 19th century, a poor farmer named Wei Yin, noticing the dilapidated condition of the local temple dedicated to the Goddess Guanyin, decided to clean it and show his devotion. In a dream, the goddess told him to look in a cave behind the temple, where he found a tea shoot which he planted and nurtured into a tea bush producing superb tea. This tea came to be known as Tie Guan Yin, symbolizing the divine intervention of the goddess.

Processing The production of Tie Guan Yin is a fine art that has been refined over centuries. The leaves are plucked, withered under the sun, oxidized to a precise level, and then rolled into tight balls. The tea is characterized by a partial oxidation that gives it a unique flavor profile, combining the freshness of green tea with the deeper tones of black tea. The final step involves baking the leaves, which imbues them with a slight charcoal aroma and seals in the complex flavors.

Flavor Profile Tie Guan Yin is renowned for its floral and fruity aroma, with a rich and complex flavor that includes notes of orchid, apple, and honey. Its finish is long-lasting and velvety, often with a hint of pleasant astringency. The best brews of Tie Guan Yin can be infused several times, with each steeping revealing a new layer of taste.

Bi Luo Chun Green Tea: Delicacy of the Spring

Origin and Growth Bi Luo Chun Green Tea is produced in the Jiangsu province, particularly around the Dongting Lake. Its name, meaning "Green Snail Spring," refers to the tight spiral shape of the leaves which resemble snail shells and the period of harvest in early spring. It ranks among China’s ten famous teas and is highly prized for its delicate flavor and aromatic properties.

Processing The unique character of Bi Luo Chun is achieved through a careful process of plucking, roasting, and shaping. The young leaves are picked in the spring when they are still tender, rolled into tight curls, and pan-fired to prevent too much oxidation. This process preserves the natural green color and delicate flavors of the leaves, making Bi Luo Chun one of the freshest and most fragrant of Chinese green teas.

Flavor Profile Bi Luo Chun is highly appreciated for its smooth, mellow flavor with a floral, sweet aroma that is unmistakably fresh. It has a complex profile with layers of fruity notes, such as peach and plum, mingled with a slight nuttiness. Its liquor is pale green and offers a clean, refreshing aftertaste that lingers pleasantly in the mouth.

Brewing Tips

Tie Guan Yin For the best experience, brew Tie Guan Yin with water at around 90-95°C. Use about 3 grams of tea leaves per 200 ml of water, and steep for 1-3 minutes depending on desired strength. This tea is suitable for multiple infusions, with each steeping drawing out a different facet of its complex flavor.

Bi Luo Chun Bi Luo Chun should be brewed at a lower temperature, around 80°C, to avoid scalding the delicate leaves. Use similar proportions as for Tie Guan Yin but steep for only 1-2 minutes. Like most green teas, Bi Luo Chun is best consumed in a single infusion to appreciate its delicate and subtle flavors fully.

Conclusion

Both Tie Guan Yin and Bi Luo Chun offer tea enthusiasts a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas, each telling its own story of cultural heritage and artisanal craft. Whether you prefer the robust, layered complexity of Tie Guan Yin or the delicate, refreshing simplicity of Bi Luo Chun, both teas provide a window into the soul of Chinese tea culture, offering a peaceful respite and a burst of flavor with every cup.