Pu'er tea is a treasure of Chinese tea culture, and has been loved by the majority of tea lovers for its unique fermentation process and far-reaching health effects. Among the many types of pu-erh tea, raw pu-erh tea and ripe pu-erh tea are the two most common types. So, what's the difference between them? This article will be explained in detail through the following four parts.
1.The difference in processing technology.
Raw Pu'er tea refers to the tea leaves that are naturally fermented after picking. This fermentation process usually requires a long period of storage, allowing the tea leaves to slowly ferment in their natural environment. In the production process of Shengpu, no artificial starter culture is added, and it completely depends on the action of microorganisms and enzymes in the natural environment.
In contrast, ripe Pu'er tea is post-fermented on the basis of raw Pu'er and artificially accelerated. This process usually includes steps such as stacking and turning, and by controlling temperature, humidity and other conditions, the tea leaves are quickly fermented and matured.
2.The difference in taste.
Due to the different processing techniques, there are also obvious differences in taste between raw and cooked Pu-erh tea. The taste of shengpu is more distinct, with a strong bitter and astringent taste, and the sweetness is slower. The ripe pu is artificially fermented, and its taste is more mellow, the bitterness and astringency are lighter, and the sweetness is fast.
3.The difference in health benefits.
Raw Pu-erh tea and ripe Pu-erh tea also differ in their health benefits. Shengpu has a good effect of lowering lipids**, clearing heat and detoxifying. Cooked pu is more conducive to digestion, and it is a good choice for people with gastrointestinal discomfort.
4.Differences in storage methods.
Due to the different degrees of fermentation between raw and cooked pu-erh teas, they are also stored differently. Shengpu needs to be stored in a ventilated and dry environment, away from direct sunlight, to prevent excessive oxidation of tea leaves. On the other hand, cooked pu needs to be stored in a relatively humid environment to maintain its mellow taste.
Raw Pu-erh tea and cooked Pu-erh tea have their own characteristics and advantages. Whether you like the freshness and nature of raw Pu or the mellow sweetness of cooked Pu, you can find your own cup in the world of Pu'er tea.