Discover the Elegance of Fenghuang Dancong Tea: The Perfume of Teas

1️⃣ Tea Quantity: The Right Amount Matters

The amount of tea you use is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and aroma. For Fenghuang Dancong, the recommended tea-to-water ratio is 1:20 to 1:25. This means:

• For a 120ml gaiwan (lidded bowl) or small teapot, use around 7 grams of tea leaves.

• Adjust the quantity based on the number of people drinking and the size of your teaware.

Why it matters:

• Too little tea: The brew will be weak and lack the tea’s signature aroma and flavor.

• Too much tea: The tea will be overly strong and bitter, which may not be enjoyable unless you’re a seasoned tea drinker.

2️⃣ Warm Your Teaware: Prep for Perfection

Before adding the tea leaves, warm your teaware to enhance the brewing process:

• For a gaiwan: Rinse the gaiwan, fairness pitcher, and tasting cups with boiling water. This not only cleans the teaware but also helps retain heat, which is essential for releasing the tea’s aroma.

• For a teapot: Pour boiling water into the pot, then discard it. Add the tea leaves, and pour more boiling water over the lid and body of the pot. This step, known as “roasting the tea,” helps awaken the tea’s fragrance.

3️⃣ Add the Tea Leaves: Handle with Care

When placing the tea leaves into the gaiwan or teapot, handle them gently to avoid breaking or crushing them. Broken leaves can release bitterness and affect the tea’s appearance and taste.

4️⃣ Water Temperature and Pouring Technique

Fenghuang Dancong tea is best brewed with near-boiling water (195-205°F or 90-96°C). Here’s how to pour the water for each infusion:

• First Rinse (Optional): Quickly pour boiling water over the leaves and discard the liquid within 3 seconds. This step helps “wake up” the tea and removes any impurities. The first infusion is often not consumed.

• 2nd to 3rd Infusion: Pour water from a height, aiming to hit the sides of the gaiwan or teapot. This technique, called “high pouring,” helps release the tea’s aroma and activate its flavor.

• 4th Infusion Onward: Once the leaves have expanded, switch to “level pouring” (pouring water gently and evenly over the leaves). This method brings out the tea’s sweetness and richness.

• 6th Infusion and Beyond: Use a “low pour” to ensure all the remaining flavors are extracted. This results in a stable, sweet, and refreshing brew.

Pro Tips:

• Avoid pouring water directly onto the center of the leaves, as this can make the tea bitter.

• Always ensure the water fully covers the leaves.

5️⃣ Steeping Time: Timing is Everything

The steeping time directly affects the tea’s flavor and aroma. Fenghuang Dancong tea is known for its quick infusions, so avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness.

• First 5 Infusions: Steep for 2-3 seconds after pouring the water. As soon as the water is added, it’s time to pour out the tea.

• 6th to 10th Infusions: Gradually increase the steeping time by 5-8 seconds per infusion.

• Beyond 10 Infusions: For the final brews, you can “sit” the tea longer (up to 30 seconds or more) to extract the remaining flavors. Adjust based on your taste preferences.

Important Note: Always pour out every last drop of tea from the gaiwan or teapot. Leaving any liquid behind (known as “keeping the root”) can affect the flavor of the next infusion.

6️⃣ Enjoy the Journey: Savor Each Infusion

Fenghuang Dancong is a tea that evolves with each infusion. From the floral and honey-like notes of the early brews to the mellow sweetness of the later ones, every cup offers a new experience. Take your time to appreciate the changing aromas and flavors.