Dragon Well Tea, also known as Longjing Tea, is a famous variety of green tea originating from the West Lake region of Hangzhou, China. Renowned for its unique flat and slender leaves, it is esteemed for its fresh, sweet, and nutty flavor profile. It is one of the most celebrated teas in China and is often referred to as the national drink of the country.
Legend has it that the name Dragon Well Tea comes from a well in the region that was said to be guarded by a dragon. The tea produced from the well’s spring was believed to have magical and healing properties. Today, it’s still highly prised for its taste and health benefits, making it a popular choice among tea enthusiasts worldwide.
Origins, History, and Processing
China’s Zhejiang province of Hangzhou is the birthplace of this famous green tea. Dragon Well Tea, is a very old and popular tea with excellent quality and exclusive taste. It has been mentioned even in the ancient Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD).
During Emperor Qianlong’s visit to Hangzhou in the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912 AD), its qualities were singled out for praise. Since then, this type of tea has become an integral part of Chinese tea culture and won popularity all over the world.
Situated close to West Lake at Hangzhou’s Shi Feng Mountain slopes. This delicate tea flourishes because Shi Feng Mountain offers it fertile soil as well as a moderate climate. The area also abounds with natural springs that give unique flavor and quality to the tea.
The cultivation process of Dragon Well Tea is done in such a manner that every step is taken by experienced farmers. Leaves are plucked during early spring, when they are at their peak nutritional value and freshness level. They contain more essential oils and nutrients than any other time of the year. The top two leaves plus one bud are hand-picked.
Once harvested, the leaves are “kill green” in large woks over high heat to stop oxidation, thus keeping them fresh and bright green. After being pan fried, these leaves look like a beak-shaped bird by hand itself feature.
After shaping and drying stage takes place. The masters watch over temperature levels closely while controlling humidity. This ensures that drying can be uniform, leading to a smooth consistent taste.
How to Make Dragon Well Green Tea
Famous for its unique taste of chestnuts combined with a smooth and fulfilling finish. For you to fully enjoy this magnificent tea, follow these brewing guidelines keenly:
- Amount of the Tea: Start by measuring 5 grams (teaspoon) of those leaves for every 150 millilitres of water. This will ensure a good balance and taste.
- Hotness of Water: Heat fresh, filtered water to about 175°F (80°C). Boiling water should not be used as it tends to burn the delicate leaves resulting in a bitter brew.
- Pre-warm the Teapot/Cup: Put some hot water into your teapot or cup and swirl it around so that your vessel can be warm. Discard that remaining water before putting your tea leaves in them.
- Put Your Leaves In: So, put these measured tea leaves into the teapot or infuser.
- Tea Steeps: Pour the hot water over the teas and let them steep for about two minutes. Depending on how mild you want it, adjust your steeping time, which makes a difference. Shorter steep time provides mild flavor, while longer time gives stronger brew.
- Strain and Serve: Use a strainer while pouring out into cups so that you can filter off all leaves inside. Daragon Well Green Tea can be brewed several times, with each brewing having slightly different tastes.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
It is recognised for its subtle taste but complex profile. The blend is harmonised with hints of fresh grass underlined by a chestnut note when tasted. It has an almost sweet buttery taste and long pleasant aftertaste. The liquor is usually pale jade green, which shows its high quality nature.
Caffeine Levels
Typically contains a moderate amounts of caffeine. Usually between 30-50 milligrams per eight ounce cup. Therefore, people who are looking for something gentle yet refreshing rather than highly caffeinated teas or coffee should try it. In green tea, caffeine is released slowly, hence causing a steady alertness without any effects of tension.
Dragon Well Tea Benefits
Here are some health benefits of Dragon Well Tea that make it a perfect addition to your daily routine, including:
- Antioxidant Rich: Catechins and polyphenols are abundant in Dragon well Loose Leaf Tea. They are powerful antioxidants that help protect your cells from free radical. Thereby reducing inflammation and preventing chronic diseases.
- Heart Health Support: Drinking regularly has been associated with better cardiovascular health. The antioxidants may help lower LDL cholesterol and improve blood circulation, hence leading to less chances of heart disease.
- Aids Digestion: It has natural compounds that enhance digestion, thus soothing bloating and indigestion symptoms. Furthermore, taking this brew may support digestive wellness by creating a healthy gut microbiome.
- Boosts Metabolism. Caffeine, along with other bioactive substances in dragon well green tea, raises your metabolic rate. So as to help manage weight issues. This slow rise helps increase fat burning efficiency within the body system.
- Improved Mental Focus: Combining a moderate amounts with L-theanine and caffeine, which boost mental alertness and concentration. This state of calm vigilance makes it easier for you to concentrate on tasks.
- Oral Health Promotion: This green tea has catechins possessing antibacterial properties beneficial to oral health. Regular consumption can decrease harmful bacteria growth in the mouth. This enhancing breath freshness and avoiding dental problems.
To learn more about the advantages, read our article titled Green Tea Benefits on our blog.
Conclusion
When brewing or enjoying a cup of Dagon Well tea, it is not only about its great taste, but also various health benefits that come along with it. These seven steps will guide you into making an ideal cup whereby you can feel every sip while exploring delicate complexities attached to this famous green tea variety.
Finally keep your leaves properly stored in an airtight container away from light and heat so as not to lose their freshness and taste. Hence, don’t hesitate to purchase best quality Dragon Well green tea today and enjoy the benefits.