Yuexi Cuilan (岳西翠兰), often translated as Yuexi Emerald Orchid or Yuexi Cui Lan, is a distinguished green tea originating from Yuexi County in Anhui Province, China. It is known for its unique appearance, refreshing taste, and captivating aroma.
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance: The dry tea leaves are tightly rolled and resemble orchid petals, hence the name “Emerald Orchid.” They exhibit a deep, vibrant green color. After brewing, the leaves unfurl and display a beautiful emerald green hue.
- Aroma & Taste: Yuexi Cuilan boasts a fresh, elegant aroma often described as floral, with hints of orchid or chestnut. The taste is smooth, mellow, and refreshing with a lingering sweet aftertaste. It lacks the grassy or astringent notes sometimes found in other green teas.
- Liquor: The brewed tea produces a clear, bright, and light green liquor.
Origin and Growing Region:
Yuexi County, located in the Dabie Mountains of Anhui Province, provides an ideal environment for growing tea. The high altitude, abundant rainfall, and misty mountain air contribute to the unique quality of Yuexi Cuilan. The specific terroir of the region plays a crucial role in its flavor profile.
History:
While not as ancient as some other famous Chinese teas, Yuexi Cuilan has gained significant recognition in recent decades. It was developed in the late 1970s and has quickly risen to prominence due to its exceptional quality.
Processing:
The production of Yuexi Cuilan involves careful hand-picking and a series of traditional processing steps:
- Picking: Only tender, young buds and leaves are carefully hand-picked in early spring.
- Withering: The freshly picked leaves are spread out to wither and lose some moisture.
- Fixation (杀青): The leaves are heated in a wok to deactivate enzymes and prevent oxidation. This crucial step preserves the green color and fresh flavor.
- Rolling (揉捻): The leaves are gently rolled to shape them and release their internal juices, which contribute to the tea’s flavor and aroma.
- Drying (干燥): The rolled leaves are dried to reduce their moisture content further and ensure proper preservation.
Brewing Instructions:
- Water Temperature: Use water around 80-85°C (176-185°F). Avoid using boiling water, which can scorch the leaves and produce a bitter taste.
- Tea Amount: Use approximately 3-5 grams of tea per 150ml of water.
- Steeping Time: Steep for 2-3 minutes for the first infusion, and you can slightly increase the steeping time for subsequent infusions.
- Teaware: A glass or porcelain teapot or gaiwan is recommended to fully appreciate the tea’s color and unfurling leaves.
Health Benefits:
Like other green teas, Yuexi Cuilan is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins. It is associated with various potential health benefits, including:
- Boosting the immune system
- Promoting heart health
- Improving mental alertness
- Aiding digestion
How it differs from other Green Teas:
- Unique Shape: The rolled leaves resembling orchid petals are a distinctive characteristic.
- Fresh, Floral Aroma: Its pronounced floral and sometimes chestnut-like aroma sets it apart.
- Smooth, Mellow Taste: The absence of strong grassy or bitter notes makes it very approachable.
This comprehensive English introduction should provide a clear understanding of Yuexi Cuilan.
