What Is White Tea? White Tea is a lightly processed and delicate Tea known for its subtle flavour and numerous health benefits. It comes from the young leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant, harvested before they are fully open. The name “White Tea” comes from the fine white hairs on the unopened buds, which give the plant a whitish appearance. White Tea undergoes minimal oxidation, preserving natural antioxidants and producing a mild, sweet taste.
White Tea, with its delicate nature, soothes the senses and is a favourite among Tea connoisseurs for its light, refreshing flavour. Unlike other types of Tea, White Tea is only lightly processed, which helps retain its delicate aroma and health benefits.
How White Tea Is Made
White Tea is comes from the young leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant. The production process involves a few simple steps:
- Harvesting: The young leaves and buds are hand-plucked before fully open. This usually occurs in early spring when the plant is at its most tender stage.
- Withering: The leaves and buds are then spread out to wither in natural sunlight or a controlled environment. This step reduces moisture content and allows the leaves to become pliable.
- Drying: After withering, the leaves are dried to stop oxidation. This can be done by air-drying, sun-drying, or baking in ovens. The goal is to preserve the natural state of the leaves as much as possible.
Types of White Tea
There are several varieties of White Tea, each with its unique characteristics:
- Silver Needle (Baihao Yinzhen): Made exclusively from the buds, this is the highest grade of White Tea. It has a light, sweet taste and a delicate aroma.
- White Peony (Bai Mudan): This variety includes both buds and leaves, resulting in a fuller flavour compared to Silver Needle. It is known for its fresh, floral taste.
- Long Life Eyebrow (Shou Mei): Made from the larger leaves left over after the production of Silver Needle and White Peony. It has a stronger flavour and a darker colour.
- Tribute Eyebrow (Gong Mei): Similar to Shou Mei but considered of higher quality. It has a robust flavour and a golden hue.
Health Benefits of White Tea
White Tea is packed with antioxidants, which can offer numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: White Tea contains polyphenols like catechins, which can help protect the body from free radicals.
- Supports Weight Loss: The catechins in White Tea help boost metabolism and promote fat burning.
- Promotes Skin Health: Antioxidants in White Tea can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
- Improves Heart Health: Regular consumption of White Tea has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
How to Brew White Tea
Brewing White Tea requires a gentle approach to preserve its delicate flavours:
- Use fresh, filtered water and heat it to around 75-80°C. Don’t use boiling water, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Add about 2 grams of White Tea per 150ml of water. For a 300ml mug, use approximately 4 grams of Tea.
- Steep the Tea for 2-3 minutes. Taste the Tea and adjust the steeping time to see if a stronger flavour is desired.
- Pour the Tea into a cup and enjoy. White Tea can be re-steeped multiple times, with each infusion revealing different flavour nuances.
Exploring the Delicate World of White Tea
White Tea is an experience that offers a moment of tranquillity and a connection to nature. Whether you are a seasoned Tea drinker or a newcomer to the world of Tea, exploring the delicate flavours and health benefits of White Tea will be a delightful journey. By understanding its origins, production process, and the best ways to enjoy it, you will fully appreciate the unique charm that White Tea brings to the table.