Yellow tea

Sejak, ujeon, hwangcha tea leaves

Hwangcha (yellow tea)

Hwangcha

Korean tea hwangcha Naju South Korea 2015-01-17(1)

Yellow tea is a rare and expensive variety of tea that is produced in China. Unlike other types of tea, which include green tea, black tea, white tea, and oolong tea, yellow tea undergoes a unique processing method that gives it a distinctive smooth taste and yellowish color. This article provides an overview of yellow tea, including its history, production process, varieties, and health benefits.

History

Yellow tea has a long history in China, where it has been appreciated for centuries for its delicate flavor and health benefits. It is considered one of the six major tea types in China. Historically, yellow tea was often given as a tribute to the Emperor of China, which made it a highly prized commodity.

Production Process

The production of yellow tea is similar to that of green tea but includes an additional step known as "sealing yellow" (黄闷), which is responsible for its unique characteristics. The process involves the following steps:

1. Plucking: The tea leaves are carefully plucked, typically by hand, to ensure only the highest quality leaves are selected.
2. Withering: The leaves are then allowed to wither slightly to reduce moisture content.
3. Fixing: The leaves are pan-fired or steamed to prevent oxidation, similar to green tea. This step preserves the green color and fresh flavor of the leaves.
4. Rolling: The leaves are rolled to shape them and break down the cell walls, enhancing the tea's flavor.
5. Sealing Yellow: The distinctive step for yellow tea. After rolling, the leaves are wrapped in cloth or paper and kept warm for a period, allowing them to undergo a slight, controlled oxidation. This process gives the tea its characteristic yellow color and mellow taste.
6. Drying: Finally, the leaves are dried to stop oxidation and seal in the flavor.

Varieties

There are several varieties of yellow tea, each with its unique flavor profile. Some of the most famous include:

• Junshan Yinzhen: Also known as Silver Needle of Junshan, it is considered the most prestigious yellow tea and is produced in Hunan Province.
• Meng Ding Huangya: A yellow tea from Sichuan Province, known for its sweet and mellow taste.
• Huoshan Huangya: A variety from Anhui Province, which has a light and refreshing flavor.

Health Benefits

Yellow tea is rich in antioxidants and contains bioactive compounds that can offer various health benefits. These include:

• Improving digestion
• Enhancing the immune system
• Reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer
• Aiding in weight loss

Conclusion

Yellow tea is a unique and exquisite type of tea that offers tea enthusiasts a different experience from the more common green or black teas. Its complex production process and limited availability make it a sought-after commodity among tea connoisseurs. Whether for its health benefits or its distinctive taste, yellow tea is a valuable addition to the world of tea.