Chinese Tea

Tea was discovered in China in 2700 BCE and was subsequently imported to Europe by the Dutch around the 16th century. There are several types of tea, but Chinese tea is grown from the Camellia Sinensis tea plant. This tea plant is the basis of all the tea families, green tea, black tea, white tea, Oolong tea, etc. It will, after harvesting, be dried and fermented in a different way to enhance the character of the tea colour.

Tea is grown mainly in the south-eastern provinces for the quality of its climatic conditions. There are 4 tea regions, Fujian, Yunnan, Zhejiang and Anhui, which produce their own types of tea. The cultivation of tea is part of China's history, it does not have to be prepared in boiling water, only the infusions have to be prepared at high temperature. Chinese tea is completely different from red teas such as Rooibos, which is not part of the tea family, as it grows on a small shrub. This drink is prepared in the same way, as an infusion, but does not contain any theine.

Chinese Green Tea

Chinese green tea is grown mainly in the Zhejiang region and is the basis for Gunpowder green tea. Chinese green teas are recognisable by the green colour of the tea leaves and its golden colour when brewed. Green tea is brewed at a lower temperature than black tea, between 75 and 80 degrees Celsius for 3 to 5 minutes, which enhances its herbal notes.

A longer infusion will develop an astringency that will overpower the aromas. The consumption of green tea is appreciated by tea lovers for its benefits, rich in antioxidants, it slows down the ageing of cells. It also lowers blood sugar levels and aids digestion.

Chinese Black Tea

The Yunnan region is one of the main producers of black tea. Yunnan is the cradle of the tea plant, as this is where it is said to have been discovered. Black tea was created by chance, when an order of green tea was being transported from China to England. Some of the tea oxidised during the long journey and was immediately adopted by the English, becoming their favourite drink and renamed English Breakfast tea.

Black tea was transported in the form of compressed tea cakes. It is often brewed in water between 90 and 95° Celsius to reveal the full-bodied character of this tea. Black tea is the basis of the iconic Earl Grey tea, a recipe by Charles Grey who added bergamot to his tea leaves and popularised his blend. Black tea is an excellent base for making smoked tea such as Lapsang Souchong.

Chinese White Tea

White tea is separated into two types, Silver Needles which contains exclusively silver buds and Bai Mu Dan which is made from the twig of a bud. This is the first growth in the region and is harvested from March to early April. This delicate tea is one of the best teas, it is prepared in water at 70° Celsius and must be brewed for 5 to 10 minutes longer than other teas. You will find a light coloured tea with a slightly sweet taste in the cup.

During the tea ceremony, high quality tea is used to reveal the subtlety of its aromas. High quality tea will offer you a unique experience, if you are a great tea lover, you will not be able to switch to the so-called classic tea. At MaxiCoffee, you will find the most famous tea brands that make their recipe from exceptional Chinese tea.