Everything you need to know about White Tea Leaves

There are a lot of different types of tea in the world, and all have a separate fan base. One of them is known as white tea. One of the major reasons why white tea leaves are so popular is that they are minimally processed and good for health. In this blog, we will discuss everything you should know before you start to consume white tea, and we will also discuss the history of it, different types of white tea leaves, where it comes from, and how you can make it at home by yourself. So without wasting any time, let's start.

What are White Tea leaves?

White Tea Leaves are very special and rare. They are made from the young leaves and the new buds of the plant called Camellia sinensis. These tea leaves are only harvested for a few weeks in spring in the northern district of Fujian, China. This tea requires a very specific environment to grow. The leaves are mostly picked in mid-March till mid-April, and only when the weather is dry and not humid. White tea leaves are also known as the champagne of teas, because people often refer to them as the expensive tea. It's also packed with a lot of health benefits.

Types of white tea

All around the world, there are many different types of teas. Some are good for your morning routine, and some might be good to enjoy in the evening. But if we specifically talk about white tea, there are 5 types 

1. Yin Zhen Bai Hao (Silver Needle): Yin Zhen Bai Hao, also known as Silver Needle, is a top-grade white tea from China, specifically the Fuding region of Fujian Province. It's made exclusively from the plump, tender buds of the tea plant, hand-picked in early spring. The tea is known for its delicate, floral fragrance and smooth, slightly sweet taste.

2. Bai Mu Dan (White Peony): Bai Mu Dan, also known as White Peony, is a type of white tea originating from Fujian Province in China. It's characterized by a "one bud, two leaves" plucking method, making it fuller and richer in flavor than Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yinzhen), which uses only buds. Bai Mu Dan is known for its subtle sweet flavor, floral aroma, and a light, refreshing taste. 

3. Gongmei (Tribute Eyebrow): Gongmei, or Tribute Eyebrow, is a type of white tea known for its unique shape and history. It's believed to have been presented as a gift to emperors, and its long, curved leaves are likened to eyebrows. Gongmei is considered a "simpler" white tea, as it's made from three upper leaves and a bud, rather than just buds.

4. Shou Mei (Noble, Long Life Eyebrow): It is called Shou Mei, known as Long Noble Life Eyebrow, due to its thin and crescent-shaped leaves that resemble the eyebrows of the elderly. A pleasantly full-bodied, floral, slightly sweet, refreshing tea with a flavor and character that lingers on the palate. There is no astringency, and it is light and refreshing.

5. Fujian New Craft (DaBaiCha or DaHoaCha): Fujian New Craft, also known as DaBaiCha or DaHoaCha, is a white tea variety developed in Fujian province, China, in the late 1960s to meet growing market demand. It's made from young leaves and buds of the Da Bai cultivar, undergoing withering, light rolling, and drying. Unlike some other white teas, it appears similar to black tea due to its long, curly, and greenish-brown leaves. Brewed, it exhibits a clear, dark yellow color with floral notes, a result of its light fermentation. 

Talking about these 5 types, the silver needle is the most unique one, carefully hand-picked and packed with a lot of health benefits. If you’re thinking of switching to white tea. Start with the silver needle. 

How to make white tea?

Making white tea is very easy. A few simple steps and it's ready to serve. But not everyone knows how to make it properly. Here is a guide that will help you make a good cup of white tea for yourself.

1. Heat and Cool Water: Boil water, then allow it to cool to the recommended temperature (around 85°C or 185°F).

2. Add Tea Leaves: Place the desired amount of white tea leaves (typically 2 teaspoons per cup) in your teapot or infuser.

3. Steep the Tea: Pour the cooled water over the tea and allow it to steep for 3-5 minutes.

4. Strain and Serve: Strain the tea leaves and pour the brew into your teacup. 

Where can you buy White Tea?

There are a lot of online platforms where you can buy all types of teas. But not all websites are trustworthy and do not deliver the best quality. Luckily, we have got you covered. The Pure White Tea from Backyard Brew is one of the best white tea leaves available out there. You can trust their products, and the quality is top-notch.

Can you reuse white tea leaves?

You can use white tea leaves 2-3 times. The reason behind this is, these leaves are very little processed, and no chemicals are used in the making. Some specific types of white teas can also be used up to 8-10 times. If the tea you bought is in the form of tea bags, just keep them in the fridge after the first use, and then you can use them again. And if you bought loose white tea leaves, after using them one time, make sure you store them in an air-tight container so they can be used again. Reusing anything is never a good practice, but in the case of white tea leaves, it's proven that you can use them again at least 3 more times.

Conclusion

Now that you know everything about the white tea leaves, where they come from, and how to properly use them in your daily routine. It's time to switch to white tea. There is quite a possibility that you might not like it for the first time, but after hearing that these leaves are the only tea leaves that are not processed as much as the other tea leaves, which makes them the perfect drink to be consumed daily. So what's the wait? Grab yourself some white tea leaves and start your journey towards a healthy lifestyle.