The main difference between white tea and aged white tea is how long they are stored and how well they age. Both of these fall under the category of white tea, but differ in handling and taste characteristics:
White Tea:
White tea is a slightly fermented tea that is mainly produced in Fujian Province, China. It is made by natural drying and light processing, preserving the natural state of the tea leaves.
Fresh white tea has a light, soft taste and aroma and is lighter in color, usually pale green or pale yellow.
Common varieties of white tea include Baihao Silver Needle, White Peony, etc.
Old White Tea:
Old white tea refers to white tea that has been stored for a long time, generally referring to white tea that has been stored for more than three years. Over time, white tea undergoes a natural aging process.
After aging, the flavor of white tea (old white tea) will become richer and deeper. Its aroma becomes more intense and the palate may become smoother.
With the increase of storage time, the color of old white tea will gradually change from the initial light yellow to dark yellow or even dark red.
During aging, the chemical composition of white tea changes, which may have an impact on its health benefits.
Overall, aged white tea is white tea that has been stored and aged for a longer period of time, and its taste, aroma, and color differ from fresh white tea. Old white tea is often considered to be more complex and rich in taste, and is suitable for slow tasting. Which one to choose depends on your personal taste and preference for tea.