Bi Luo Chun Green Tea is one of the earliest green teas harvested in spring, typically picked in late March when the weather is still chilly. Tea pickers dress warmly but remove the fingertips of their gloves to carefully select each bud at the perfect moment—when the first leaf begins to separate from the full bud. Early in the morning, Mr. Wang, a master tea maker, oversees the picking to ensure high standards of quality. By midday, he collects the fresh leaves and spreads them on bamboo trays to wither for one to two hours, depending on humidity. This allows the leaves to soften while preserving their fresh aroma.

Once the leaves are ready, Mr. Wang begins the pan-frying process. Using high heat, he deactivates enzymes to halt oxidation, preserving the tea’s green color and fresh taste. He then lowers the heat and carefully rolls small batches of leaves by hand to form their signature curled shape. This process is repeated until the leaves are nearly dry and ready for storage.

After final frying, the tea leaves are wrapped in paper and stored in tin containers lined with limestone to absorb moisture. This meticulous process results in the premium Bi Luo Chun tea, renowned for its delicate aroma, vibrant green curls, and smooth flavor.

Premium Bi Luo Chun Green Tea is characterized by its tightly rolled, slender leaves with a fine layer of white fuzz, giving them a silvery-green appearance. The leaves are evenly sized and have a natural spiral shape. Once brewed, the tea produces a clear, pale green liquor with a floral and fruity fragrance. The taste is smooth and refreshing, with a pleasant sweetness and a lingering aftertaste.

Low-quality Bi Luo Chun, by contrast, often has unevenly shaped or coarser leaves, with a dull color that may appear yellowish. The brewed liquor might be murky, lacking clarity and aroma, with a flat or bitter taste. Look for bright green leaves, a clear brew, and a rich aroma to ensure you’re enjoying authentic, high-grade Bi Luo Chun.