Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea is a unique tea produced in Guzhu Mountain, Changxing County, Zhejiang Province. Its name “Purple Bamboo Shoot” derives from the slight purple hue of the fresh leaves and their resemblance to bamboo shoots when rolled. Let’s dive into the captivating qualities and rich history of this remarkable tea.
The Distinctive Characteristics of Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea:
Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea is renowned for its compact appearance, complete and slender leaves, and robust buds covered with fine white hairs. As described by the famous poet Su Dongpo, the tea buds from Guzhu are even whiter than one’s teeth. When brewed, the tea reveals a clear, aromatic infusion, accompanied by a subtle hint of bamboo fragrance. Its taste is refreshing, mellow, and rich, leaving a delightful aftertaste.
The Pristine Environment of Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea:
Guzhu Mountain, the birthplace of this extraordinary tea, is situated in Shuikou Township, northwest of Changxing County. The mountain is surrounded by undulating peaks, meandering streams, and the vast expanse of Taihu Lake. The humid atmosphere, created by the mist from the lake, provides an ideal environment for tea cultivation. Since the Tang Dynasty, Guzhu Mountain has been renowned for producing the exquisite Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea.
Historical Background of Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea:
Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea holds a significant place in China’s history, particularly during the Tang Dynasty, where it was highly favored by the emperors and offered as a tribute tea for ancestral rituals. In the Tang Dynasty, the tea was processed into tea cakes using the tender buds freshly picked from the tips of the tea bushes.
During the Song Dynasty, the tea continued to be offered as a tribute, and its leaves were rolled into the shape of large and small dragon patterns. As time passed, with the arrival of the Ming Dynasty, Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea evolved into different categories based on the size of the tea buds, such as Purple Bamboo, Flag Buds, and Sparrow’s Tongue. Moreover, the tea was transformed from pressed cakes into loose-leaf tea, marking a significant reform in the history of Chinese tea production.
However, in the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties, Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea faced a period of decline and almost vanished until it gradually revived during the 1970s.
Brewing the Perfect Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea:
To fully savor the essence of Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea, follow these steps for a delightful experience:
Water Quality:
Using spring water is ideal, but clean streams or river water around 80°C can also be suitable.
Water Temperature:
The higher the quality of the tea leaves, the lower the water temperature should be. Steeping tea leaves in excessively hot water can lead to overcooked leaves and a bitter taste. On the other hand, water that is too cool may result in a weak flavor. For high-grade green tea like Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea, a water temperature of around 80°C is recommended. This can be achieved by boiling water and allowing it to cool to the desired temperature.
Tea Quantity:
For every 150ml of water, use approximately 3g of Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea. The amount of tea used influences the strength of the flavor, so feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your preference.
Teaware:
For a more refined brewing experience, consider using glass cups or white porcelain gaiwan. For regular households, large porcelain cups and teapots are suitable for brewing mid to low-grade green teas.
Brewing Process:
Preheat the teaware before brewing to enhance the color and aroma of the tea. Afterward, pour the appropriate temperature water into the teacup, add the tea leaves, and leave the cup uncovered. Watch as the tea leaves gently sink and unfurl, revealing their vibrant green hue and captivating fragrance. This first brew can be enjoyed to about two-thirds of the cup’s capacity before refilling, marking the second brew. With plump tea leaves, the second brew will yield a flavorful tea, leaving a sweet aftertaste on your palate and an enduring fragrance in the air.
Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea is a gem among Chinese teas, reflecting its unique appearance, exceptional flavor, and long-standing history. Brewing this tea is an art that allows you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Guzhu Mountain, savoring the essence of nature with every sip. Experience the heritage and allure of Guzhu Purple Bamboo Shoot Tea, a true treasure of Zhejiang Province.