As the writer Lin Yutang once said, there are three essential things to do in spring: “admire the flowers, stroll through the greening countryside, and savor West Lake Longjing tea.”
The warm spring breeze that blankets the Jiangnan region in green also awakens a deep yearning to taste the essence of the season. But as we enjoy West Lake Longjing, we face a crucial question: what is the best way to store such a high-end green tea?
In truth, every green tea has its own unique preservation requirements. Take West Lake Longjing, for example. Many believe that the tea is at its absolute best when consumed immediately after it’s processed. However, this is a common misconception.
Let’s delve into the traditional methods for West Lake Longjing. The final step in its classic processing is known as “收灰” (shōu huī), or “ash-finishing.” This involves placing the freshly pan-fired tea leaves into a ceramic jar with quicklime for about a week. This process, intended to “去火气” (qù huō qì)—or mellow the “fiery” character from the roasting—allows the tea to undergo a post-maturation period.
After this ash-finishing, the aroma and flavor of the West Lake Longjing can be expressed to their fullest potential. The tea could then be stored in these lime jars for up to a year. This was the time-honored storage method used by tea farming families.
Of course, in the modern home, the conditions for using quicklime jars are not readily available.
An alternative traditional technique still in use today is the charcoal storage method. Here, charcoal replaces quicklime as the desiccant. About a kilogram of charcoal is placed in a cloth bag among the tea, and the bag is replaced every one to two months. If the charcoal becomes damp, it can be rejuvenated by heating it until it glows red and then letting it cool completely before returning it to the bag. This method is also highly effective at keeping the tea leaves dry and preventing spoilage.
Modern Storage: The Rise of Refrigeration
With advancements in technology, cold storage has become the standard method.
Through extensive experimentation, the most reliable modern method is to seal the tea in small, airtight packages and store them in a clean, odor-free refrigerator at a temperature between 0-8°C (32-46°F).
What about freezing? Freezing can indeed preserve freshness even more effectively, but it comes with a significant drawback. When you take frozen tea out in the summer, the drastic temperature difference between the freezer and the ambient air creates condensation. If you brew the tea immediately, this isn’t an issue. However, if the package is repeatedly taken out and returned to the freezer, the leaves will absorb this moisture. This not only compromises the taste but also makes the tea susceptible to spoilage.
If you must freeze your tea, we strongly recommend dividing it into single-serving, airtight packets. This allows you to remove one portion at a time without affecting the rest of the batch.
Canisters made of porcelain or tin are also excellent choices, but always remember the three golden rules: protect from light, ensure an airtight seal, and prevent moisture. If you have a large quantity of tea, it’s still best to avoid very large containers. Instead, use multiple smaller sealed bags, making it convenient to open and consume the tea in portions.
Quick Guide to Home Storage Methods
1. Canister Method: Place your West Lake Longjing tea in a sealed foil bag. Put the bag inside an iron tin or porcelain canister, seal the lid tightly, and store it in a cool, dark place.
2. Bag Method: Pack the Longjing tea into a food-grade foil bag, squeeze out all excess air, and seal it securely for storage at room temperature.
3. Refrigeration Method: Seal the West Lake Longjing in a foil bag and place it inside a tin canister for double protection. Store it in a refrigerator at 0-10°C (32-50°F).
So, how do you store your treasured West Lake Longjing tea?