Long Jing, or "Dragon Well", is one of the most famous varieties of green tea originating from the village of Long Jing in the West Lake Area (Xi Hu) in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. This tea is famous for its high quality and unique taste, which makes it popular both in China and abroad.
Production process
The production process of Long Jing involves manually harvesting young leaves and buds, which are then fried in a frying pan. This roasting is the key step that gives the tea its characteristic taste and aroma. There are several roasting methods that can vary depending on the region and traditions.
Appearance and fragrance
The leaves of Long Jing have a flat shape and a light green color with a slight sheen. The infusion has a transparent golden hue and an exquisite aroma with notes of roasted chestnut and fresh herbs. The aroma of tea can vary from sweet to slightly nutty.
Taste and properties
The taste of Long Jing is sweet and mild with light vegetable notes. It has a refreshing aftertaste that can remain for a long time after drinking. Tea is also known for its relaxing properties due to its high content of amino acids such as theanine.
Classification and quality
Long Jing is divided into several categories depending on the region of production:
- Shi Feng — the highest quality.
- Mei Jia Wu (Mei Jia Wu)** — known for its bright green color.
- Hu Pao — another popular variety.
The quality of Long Jing is determined by the shape and color of the leaves, as well as their uniformity. High-quality varieties have dense, even leaves with a slight green tinge.
Brewing process
It is recommended to use water with a temperature of 80-90 °C to brew Long Jing. 4-5 grams of tea is enough for one serving (250 ml). The first brew should be infused for 1-2 minutes, and the subsequent ones can be increased by 30 seconds. Tea can be brewed several times, preserving its original taste.
Health benefits
Long Jing is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Regular consumption of this tea can help improve metabolism, strengthen the immune system and reduce stress levels.
This tea is ideal for enjoying in a relaxed atmosphere or during friendly meetings, adding an atmosphere of comfort and warmth to any tea party.