Pu Erh Tea is a fermented, high-quality, large-leaf tea from the Yunnan Province of China. Known for its distinct earthy flavour and rich aroma, it has been cherished for centuries for its medicin...
Pu Erh Tea is a fermented, high-quality, large-leaf tea from the Yunnan Province of China. Known for its distinct earthy flavour and rich aroma, it has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal properties and ability to aid digestion. This tea is full of complexity with a flavour profile similar to a typical green tea but with less vegetal notes and more body and sweetness.
The History or Pu Erh
Pu Erh tea has a long history that dates back over 2,000 years. It originated in the Yunnan province of China where tea trees thrive in the high-altitudes. Legend has it that Pu Erh tea was initially discovered by an emperor's physician who recognized its medicinal properties. The tea was later enjoyed by emperors and noble families for its rejuvenating effects and exquisite taste. Over time, Pu Erh tea became highly sought after and was frequently used as a form of currency in trade along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Today, Pu Erh tea continues to be revered as a cultural treasure and is enjoyed by tea connoisseurs worldwide.
Pu Erh Production
Pu Erh Tea develops a rich, earthy aroma and sweet stone fruit and nut notes in part due to its unique production. In the west we would refer to this as a Red Tea but it is really a classification of its own. The colour of the liquor and the oxidation level of the leaves are not as dark as teas black teas that we would drink with milk but darker that most typical green and white teas.
After an initial drying in large woks to kill off most bacteria it undergoes a slow microbial fermentation. After this, unlike green teas, which are air dried before being sun dried, Pu Erh retains a small amount of enzymes which contribute to the final flavour. A long fermentation is achieved by the naturally occurring bacteria and yeasts left on the leaves which develop flavours over months and sometimes years. The longer the tea is aged, the more complex and rich its flavors become. Pu Erh tea is often compared to fine wine, where aging enhances its taste and value.
This tea is packed full of health benefits, full of antioxidants, aiding weight loss and boosting the immune system. The experts are our dedicated Pu-Erh tea customers who keep on coming back for more and they're looking well for it!
Brewing Tips
1. Traditionally, Pu Erh is brewing with a clay teapot called a Yixing which is often recommended as it can enhance the flavors of the tea. Rinse the teapot with hot water to warm it up and remove any impurities.
2. As a general guideline, use approximately 5 grams of tea for every 100ml of water. Adjust the amount of tea according to your taste.
3. Rinse the Tea. Rinse the tea leave with hot water to "awaken" the tea and remove any impurities. This rinsing stage is believed to improve the taste of the tea.
4: Brewing the Tea. Pour water at around 90 degrees celsius over the tea leaves and let them steep for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. Once the tea has steeped, pour into cups and enjoy. This tea can be re-infused up to 8-10 times. Add an additional 10 seconds to the brew time for each re-infusion.