Guzhu Zisun (Purple Bamboo Shoot) tea is harvested in the early spring season, typically in the cool mornings of late March or early April. The tea picking process is carried out with care, focusing on selecting tender buds with one or two young leaves. The standard for Guzhu Zisun is to pick short, tender shoots, ensuring the quality of the final product. After harvesting, the fresh leaves are brought back to the tea-processing area and are allowed to wither for a few hours. This withering step is crucial to make the leaves soft and pliable, as fresh leaves are too brittle and firm to handle immediately. If processed without proper withering, the leaves would break during frying.

Once the leaves have become supple enough to handle, the frying process begins. This stage requires both precision and care. The tea maker uses a traditional frying pan or wok and works with small batches of leaves at a time. During the frying, one hand is typically gloved to stir and move the leaves, while the other hand remains bare to monitor the pan's temperature and the condition of the leaves. This frying process for Guzhu Zisun is distinct from other green teas like Bi Luo Chun or Longjing because the leaves need to be handled gently to retain their fluffy, tender shape. Frying is done at a moderate temperature, ensuring that the leaves do not scorch or become flattened. The tea maker continuously stirs and tosses the leaves to evenly distribute heat while preserving their delicate structure.

After frying, the leaves are allowed to cool to room temperature, a process that typically takes several hours. Cooling stabilizes the leaves and prepares them for the final drying phase. The dried leaves are then placed on bamboo trays and moved to bamboo racks positioned over low-temperature charcoal fires. Before starting the drying process, the tea makers carefully prepare the charcoal by covering it with a thick layer of ash, which ensures a steady heat source without imparting any charcoal aroma to the tea leaves. The tea racks are placed at a safe distance from the fire, and the room is kept ventilated to avoid any buildup of smoke.

The slow roasting process over charcoal takes at least 2-3 hours and is critical for removing most of the remaining moisture from the leaves. The tea makers frequently check the leaves during this period, adjusting the position of the trays to maintain consistent heat distribution. This slow and steady drying ensures that the leaves retain their natural aroma and flavor while reducing their moisture content to an optimal level. If the tea leaves are not dried thoroughly, the remaining moisture can cause oxidation, leading to a loss of freshness and a shorter shelf life.

Once the drying process is complete, the tea leaves are carefully sorted to remove any broken or uneven pieces, ensuring consistency in appearance. The finished Guzhu Zisun tea is then cooled and stored in airtight containers to preserve its freshness. The final product features fluffy, tender leaves with a light green color and a fresh, clean aroma, reflecting the meticulous care taken during harvesting and processing. This attention to detail ensures that Guzhu Zisun retains its unique characteristics and delivers a smooth, balanced flavor in every brew.

High-quality Guzhu Zisun (Purple Bamboo Shoot) tea features slender, uniform leaves with a distinct shape resembling bamboo shoots. The leaves are a vibrant green color with a soft, velvety appearance, indicating their freshness and delicate crafting process.

When brewed, the tea produces a pale green or light yellow infusion that is crystal clear, exuding a gentle floral and nutty aroma. The flavor is smooth and well-balanced, with a slight natural sweetness and a refreshing vegetal finish.

In contrast, lower-quality Guzhu Zisun may have irregularly shaped leaves, a dull green or yellowish hue, and a brittle texture. The brewed tea might appear cloudy, with a harsh or flat taste that lacks complexity. To ensure you’re enjoying the finest Guzhu Zisun, look for its signature bamboo shoot shape, vibrant color, and a clean, aromatic brew.