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First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea vs. Biluochun Green Tea: A Comparison

Introduction

Green tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world, known for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. Among the many varieties of green tea, First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea and Biluochun Green Tea stand out as two of the most prestigious and sought-after types. In this article, we will compare these two exceptional teas, exploring their origins, flavors, and unique characteristics.

Origins and History

First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea

Dragon Well Tea, or Longjing, originates from the West Lake region in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. It has a history dating back over 1,200 years and is often referred to as the “National Tea of China.” The first-grade designation indicates the highest quality, with leaves picked in early spring and carefully hand-processed.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun, also known as “Green Snail Spring,” comes from the Dongting Mountain region in Jiangsu Province. Its name reflects the tea’s spiral shape, resembling snail shells, and its harvest during the spring season. Biluochun is celebrated for its delicate aroma and has been a favorite among tea connoisseurs for centuries.

Appearance and Aroma

First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea

Dragon Well Tea is characterized by its flat, slender leaves with a vibrant jade-green color. When brewed, it emits a fresh, chestnut-like aroma with subtle floral notes. The first-grade leaves are uniform in size and free of imperfections.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun leaves are small, tightly curled, and covered with fine white hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The tea has a strong, fruity fragrance, often described as a blend of floral and fruity notes, with hints of peach and apricot.

Flavor Profile

First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea

Dragon Well Tea offers a smooth, mellow taste with a sweet aftertaste. The flavor is clean and refreshing, with a slight nuttiness and a lingering sweetness that makes it highly enjoyable.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun is known for its bold, complex flavor. It has a rich, vegetal taste with a sweet and slightly tangy finish. The tea is more robust than Dragon Well, with a pronounced fruity undertone.

Brewing Methods

First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea

To brew Dragon Well Tea, use water heated to around 80°C (176°F). Steep the leaves for 2-3 minutes to bring out its delicate flavors. The leaves can be re-steeped multiple times, with each infusion revealing new nuances.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun requires slightly cooler water, around 75°C (167°F), to avoid bitterness. Steep for 1-2 minutes, as the leaves unfurl quickly. Like Dragon Well, Biluochun can be re-steeped, with later infusions becoming milder but still flavorful.

Health Benefits

Both teas are rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which help combat free radicals and support overall health