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First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea vs. Bi Luo Chun Green Tea: A Comparison

Introduction

Green tea is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, known for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. Among the many varieties, First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea and Bi Luo Chun Green Tea stand out as two of China’s most prestigious and sought-after green teas. In this article, we will compare these two exceptional teas in terms of origin, appearance, flavor, and brewing methods.

Origin and History

First Grade Dragon Well Tea (Longjing) originates from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. It has a history dating back over 1,200 years and is often referred to as the “National Tea of China.” The tea is named after the Dragon Well (Longjing) village, where it was first cultivated.

Bi Luo Chun Green Tea, on the other hand, comes from the Dongting Mountain region in Jiangsu Province. Its name translates to “Green Snail Spring,” inspired by its tightly rolled leaves resembling snail shells. Bi Luo Chun has been celebrated since the Tang Dynasty and is renowned for its delicate aroma.

Appearance

First Grade Dragon Well Tea is characterized by its flat, smooth, and sword-shaped leaves, which have a vibrant jade-green color. The leaves are uniform in size and often have a slight sheen due to the meticulous pan-firing process.

Bi Luo Chun, in contrast, features small, tightly coiled leaves that resemble tiny snail shells. The leaves are covered with fine white hairs, giving them a slightly fuzzy appearance. The color ranges from bright green to silvery-green, depending on the harvest time.

Flavor Profile

Dragon Well Tea offers a mellow, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor with a smooth, lingering aftertaste. Its aroma is fresh and grassy, with subtle chestnut notes. The tea is known for its clean and refreshing character.

Bi Luo Chun, meanwhile, has a more floral and fruity profile. It delivers a delicate sweetness with hints of orchid and apricot, accompanied by a fresh, vegetal undertone. The tea is light-bodied but highly aromatic.

Brewing Methods

For Dragon Well Tea, use water heated to around 75-80°C (167-176°F). Steep the leaves for 1-2 minutes to avoid bitterness. The tea can be brewed multiple times, with each infusion revealing subtle flavor variations.

Bi Luo Chun requires slightly cooler water, around 70-75°C (158-167°F), due to its delicate nature. Steep for 1-1.5 minutes to preserve its floral notes. Like Dragon Well, it can be re-infused several times.

Conclusion

Both First Grade Dragon Well Tea and Bi Luo Chun Green Tea are exceptional representatives of Chinese green tea, each with unique qualities. Dragon Well is prized for its nutty smoothness, while Bi Luo Chun stands out for its floral delicacy. The choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference, but either one promises a delightful tea experience.