- Green Tea:
- Description: Green tea is unoxidized. It is roasted, rolled, and dried using steam, oven heat, or pan-frying, which prevents oxidation (also known as fixing). This process results in a refreshing tea with a sweet aroma.
- Flavor: Green tea has a lighter flavor compared to black tea.
- Origins: It is prevalent in eastern countries and increasingly popular in the west.
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Yellow Tea:
- Description: Yellow tea is also unoxidized. After fixing, yellow tea leaves are heaped or piled and then wrapped in a damp cloth to rest, giving them a yellow hue.
- Availability: Yellow tea is scarce and produced mainly in China, with limited exports.
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White Tea:
- Description: White tea is barely oxidized and has a sweet, subtle flavor. It is primarily processed from the bud only, but sometimes incorporates the first or second leaf.
- Characteristics: White tea is delicate and prized for its purity.
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Oolong Tea (Wulong):
- Description: Oolong teas are partially oxidized, falling within a range of 12% to 80%. Their intricate processing provides a complex flavor that evolves with each sip.
- Cultivation: Oolongs are highly prized and crafted with care.
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Black Tea:
- Description: Black tea is fully oxidized. The leaves turn dark during processing, resulting in a robust flavor and rich color.
- Global Popularity: Black tea is widely consumed worldwide.
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Pu-erh Tea:
- Description: Pu-erh tea undergoes post-fermentation. It is aged, often for several years, resulting in a unique earthy flavor.
- Unique Aging Process: Pu-erh improves with age, much like fine wine.
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Herbal Teas (Tisanes):
- Definition: Herbal teas are not true teas; they come from various herbs, flowers, and fruits. Common examples include chamomile, mint, and hibiscus.
- Flavor Variety: Herbal teas offer diverse flavors and health benefits.
Remember that each type of tea has its own story, influenced by the region, cultivar, and processing techniques. Whether you’re sipping a delicate white tea or enjoying a robust black tea, the world of tea invites exploration!