Tieguanyin

Introduction

Tieguanyin is a type of Chinese oolong tea that originated in the 19th century in Anxi in Fujian province. It is named after the Chinese goddess of mercy, Guanyin. Tieguanyin is one of the most famous teas in China and is renowned for its floral fragrance and lingering sweet aftertaste.

History

The history of Tieguanyin is steeped in legend. One story tells of a poor farmer who found a run-down temple with an iron statue of Guanyin. He could not afford to repair the temple, so he brought incense and cleaned the temple for several months. The Guanyin appeared to him in a dream and told him to look in a cave behind the temple. There, the farmer found a tea shoot, which he nurtured into a large tea bush, which produced high-quality leaves. In gratitude, the farmer named the tea after Guanyin.

Production Process

The production process of Tieguanyin is complex and requires several steps. The leaves are first plucked, then left to wither under the sun in bamboo baskets. The leaves are then tossed every two hours in the baskets to bruise the edges of the leaves, which starts the oxidation process. The leaves are then left to dry in a warm room before being baked.

Varieties

There are two main varieties of Tieguanyin: traditional and modern. The traditional style is heavily roasted and has a stronger, more complex flavor. The modern style is lighter and greener, with a more floral and delicate taste.

Brewing Tieguanyin

Tieguanyin is best brewed in a small clay teapot or a gaiwan. The water temperature should be around 95-100 degrees Celsius. The tea leaves should be steeped for 1-2 minutes for the first infusion, and the steeping time should be increased for subsequent infusions.

Health Benefits

Tieguanyin is rich in antioxidants and has several health benefits. It can help to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce stress. It is also believed to aid in weight loss and improve skin health.

Conclusion

Tieguanyin is a unique and treasured tea that has a rich history and a complex production process. Its distinct flavor and numerous health benefits make it a favorite among tea enthusiasts.

See Also

• Chinese Tea
• Oolong Tea
• Tea Production
• Tea Culture