Longjing tea, also known as Dragon Well tea, is one of China’s most prized and exquisite green teas. Grown in the lush mountains of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, this tea is famous for its flat, sword-shaped leaves, delicate aroma, and sweet, nutty taste. Fresh Longjing tea is particularly valued because of its vibrant flavor and rich umami notes, which can only be fully appreciated when brewed correctly.
To unlock the true essence of fresh Longjing tea, it is essential to follow a precise brewing technique. This article explores the secrets of preparing the perfect cup of Longjing tea, ensuring that every sip delivers the authentic taste and aroma that has captivated tea lovers for centuries.
1. The Unique Characteristics of Fresh Longjing Tea
Before diving into the brewing methods, it is crucial to understand what makes fresh Longjing tea so special.
✔ Flat, Jade-Green Leaves: Unlike other green teas, Longjing tea leaves are pan-roasted, giving them a distinctive smooth, flat appearance.
✔ Fresh, Nutty Aroma: High-quality Longjing has a chestnut-like fragrance, with floral and grassy undertones.
✔ Delicate Sweetness: A well-brewed cup of Longjing tea offers a smooth, slightly sweet taste with a lingering umami finish.
✔ Golden-Green Liquor: The tea’s liquor is light golden-green, reflecting its freshness and purity.
✔ Rich in Amino Acids and Antioxidants: Longjing tea is packed with L-theanine, catechins, and polyphenols, contributing to both its taste and health benefits.
The best Longjing tea is harvested during the early spring, particularly before the Qingming Festival (April 5th). This first flush, known as Ming Qian Longjing, is considered the most premium.
2. Selecting the Right Water for Brewing
The quality of water significantly impacts the flavor of Longjing tea. Since green tea is delicate, using the wrong type of water can lead to bitterness or loss of aroma.
A. Ideal Water for Brewing Longjing Tea
✔ Spring Water: The best choice, as it mimics the natural environment where Longjing tea grows.
✔ Filtered Water: If spring water is unavailable, high-quality filtered water works well.
✔ Low-Mineral Content: Avoid hard water, as excessive minerals can overpower the tea’s delicate taste.
✔ Soft and Slightly Alkaline Water: Enhances the tea’s sweetness and smoothness.
B. Water Temperature Matters
✔ Optimal Temperature: 75°C–85°C (167°F–185°F)
✔ Too Hot (Above 90°C/194°F): Burns the leaves, creating a bitter taste.
✔ Too Cold (Below 70°C/158°F): Fails to extract the tea’s full aroma and flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t have a thermometer, let boiling water cool for about 5 minutes before pouring it over the tea leaves.
3. Choosing the Right Teaware
Using the right teaware enhances the brewing experience and allows you to fully appreciate Longjing tea’s aroma, color, and taste.
A. Recommended Teaware for Brewing Fresh Longjing Tea
✔ Glass Teapot or Cup: The transparency allows you to enjoy the graceful movement of the tea leaves as they unfurl.
✔ Porcelain Gaiwan: A traditional Chinese lidded bowl that helps retain heat while preserving the tea’s delicate fragrance.
✔ Glass Pitcher (Cha Hai): Helps achieve a balanced flavor by evenly distributing the brewed tea.
💡 Avoid Yixing Clay Teapots – They absorb flavors, which may interfere with Longjing tea’s pure and fresh taste.
4. The Traditional Brewing Method (Glass Cup Method)
The “Glass Cup Method” is the simplest and most authentic way to brew fresh Longjing tea, commonly used by tea masters in Hangzhou.
Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing Longjing Tea
Step 1: Warm the Cup
✔ Pour hot water (85°C/185°F) into the glass, swirl it around, and discard the water. This helps maintain the tea’s ideal temperature.
Step 2: Add the Tea Leaves
✔ Use 3–5 grams (about 1 teaspoon) of Longjing tea leaves per 200ml (7oz) of water.
Step 3: Add Water in Two Stages
✔ Pour water gently, filling only one-third of the cup, allowing the leaves to “awaken” and release their fragrance.
✔ Let it sit for 30 seconds, then fill the rest of the cup with water.
Step 4: Observe the “Three Floating Movements”
Longjing tea has a unique steeping behavior, often called “The Three Floating Movements”:
- The first floating occurs when dry leaves rise slightly.
- The second floating happens when the leaves absorb water and slowly sink.
- The final floating occurs as the leaves settle, releasing their full flavor.
Step 5: Enjoy the Tea
✔ Wait 1–2 minutes before drinking.
✔ Sip slowly to appreciate the sweet, nutty, and slightly floral notes.
✔ The same leaves can be steeped 2–3 times, with slightly longer brewing times for each infusion.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Brewing Longjing Tea
✔ Using Boiling Water – This burns the leaves, resulting in bitterness.
✔ Over-Steeping – Leaving the tea leaves in water for too long extracts too much tannin, making it astringent.
✔ Using Too Many Leaves – Overcrowding the cup can make the tea too strong.
✔ Drinking Too Quickly – Longjing tea is best enjoyed slowly, allowing its delicate flavors to unfold.
6. Enhancing Your Longjing Tea Experience
A. Food Pairings with Longjing Tea
Longjing tea pairs well with light, fresh foods that complement its grassy, nutty, and umami flavors:
✔ Dim Sum and Steamed Dumplings – Their mild flavors match the tea’s subtle sweetness.
✔ Seafood Dishes – The umami taste of fresh Longjing tea enhances the natural sweetness of seafood.
✔ Light Snacks (Nuts, Fruits, Pastries) – Almonds, cashews, and light pastries pair wonderfully.
B. Best Time to Drink Longjing Tea
✔ Morning: Refreshing and energizing without overwhelming the stomach.
✔ Afternoon: Helps relieve fatigue and improve focus.
✔ Avoid Late at Night: The caffeine content may interfere with sleep.
Conclusion: The Art of Brewing Fresh Longjing Tea
Fresh Longjing tea is more than just a beverage—it is a cultural experience, a reflection of Chinese tea artistry, and a symbol of elegance. By following the right brewing techniques, selecting high-quality water and teaware, and avoiding common mistakes, you can fully enjoy the authentic taste of Longjing tea in every cup.
Whether you are a tea connoisseur or a new tea lover, mastering the art of brewing Longjing tea will allow you to appreciate its true essence—a balance of sweetness, freshness, and umami that lingers long after the last sip.
So, why not take a moment today to brew a perfect cup of Longjing tea and savor its timeless beauty? 🍵🌿