For centuries, white tea was a drink of the Chinese emperors, not available to the general population. In recent years, consumption of little-known white tea varieties has been increasing worldwide due to its proven antioxidant properties. If you want to try tea novelties, have heard about the unique features, and are interested in learning more, the editorial staff of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offers a rating of the best varieties of white tea for 2020, from the most refined to commercial.
Content
An extremely valuable drink
The cost of white tea is one of the highest. Reason: It is made from the most precious and aromatic part of the tea plant.
Common origin with other teas, green or black. The same plant is used from which all teas are made. The difference lies in tearing off only buds and twigs that are awakening. Harvest time is spring and autumn, the moment when the plant fills with buds covered with delicate white fluff. The collection takes place over a short period of time, several days, early in the morning. No technique is used, only the skilled hands of the pickers.
Delicate nascent buds and shoots, covered with silvery villi, are left on bamboo mats in the air, slowly dried. Unlike other types of tea, which undergo the processes of roasting, fermentation, oxidation, depending on the variety, white tea does not undergo any transformation.
The complete absence of processing gives the white varieties not only a special delicate taste, but also preserves nutrients. Therefore, the beneficial properties are higher than that of other teas.
Requires careful attitude not only during production, but also during transportation, storage and use. Even the brewing water should not boil so as not to destroy the value and fragility of the tea leaves.
Where grows
Until recently, it was unknown outside of China, but now it is starting to spread in Russia and the rest of the West. The region of origin is the Chinese province of Fujian, the best producers are only there. Although production has recently expanded to parts of Japan, the Darjeeling regions in India and Sri Lanka.
Benefit
Among all teas, it has the highest level of antioxidants that protect the body from the attack of free radicals that provoke aging.
Various studies have shown that white tea is essential in the prevention of cancer: a special class of antioxidants, flavonoids, are known for their ability to counteract the development of cancer cells.
The list of beneficial effects is impressive: the drink improves bone density, helps prevent osteoporosis and arthritis, has antibacterial and antiviral effects, supports immunity, protects teeth and gums, keeps skin young, healthy and radiant.
Finally, it stimulates carbohydrate metabolism, playing a supporting role in the context of a weight loss diet.
The energy of awakening tea buds has been appreciated in Chinese medicine since antiquity, and is still used as a medicine. For example, white tea is effective for diabetics as it lowers blood glucose levels and reduces the classic symptoms of the disease, intermittent thirst and drowsiness.
Contraindications
The optimal dose of white tea ranges from 2 to 4 cups a day. This way you can make the most of the beneficial properties of the drink.
The list of adverse effects is not very long.
Contains fluoride, which, if taken in excessive amounts, destroys tooth enamel.
Given the presence of caffeine (albeit in lower doses than other types of tea), excessive consumption causes sleep disturbances, agitation, anxiety, nervousness, and dizziness. Therefore not suitable for children.
Flavonoids reduce the absorption of iron in the body, so anemic people are advised to drink the infusion between meals.
Since it stimulates gastric secretion, it is not recommended for those suffering from duodenal ulcers or gastritis.
What are the varieties
The classification is based on which part of the plant is used. There are only four options.
- Silver needle (Baihao Yinzhen)
The best of white tea varieties, elite, made from the youngest shoots, light, delicate. Why is it called that? Non-welded buds look like silvery-whitish needles.
- White peony (Bai Mudan)
The quality is slightly inferior to silver needles. Contains both shoots and small leaves, still young, covered with the finest white fluff. This type has a stronger taste and richer color.
- Show mei (Long Life Eyebrow Shou Mei)
Less valuable than the previous two, but also an excellent natural product without fermentation. It is obtained from young raw materials left after selection for the highest varieties.
- Gong Mei (Tribute Eyebrow Gong Mei)
Secondary variety, minimally processed, unlike the previous ones. The subsequent leaves give a more fruity flavor than other white teas.
Which one is better to buy
There are more useful substances, catechins and amino acids in the very first leaves and buds than in the subsequent ones. Therefore, the higher the grade, the more useful it is. But the caffeine content is the same for all species.
The requirements for Shou mei and Gong mei are lower, but according to buyers, these are noteworthy drinks: inexpensive, but tasty (especially if they have been aged for several years). Storage can be up to twenty years. The best reviews from connoisseurs receive five-year copies. Although this is a matter of taste. Some people prefer fresh crops.
The selection criteria for packaging are also important. It is considered that the highest quality loose tea. But white tea is so delicate that it easily turns into dust during transportation. It is unpleasant for anyone to choose the most expensive option in an online store, and then get something that does not in any way look like silver needles. It is worth taking a closer look at pressed forms, pancakes or balls.
Manufacturers also offer numerous combinations of white teas with other beneficial herbs to complete the flavor and enrich the properties. You can find white raspberry tea, aloe vera tea, orange tea, and many others. Everyone will pick it up to taste.
High-end Chinese white tea is not found in supermarkets, it is better to go to specialty tea shops or order online.
The best white teas for 2020
Silver needles
FirstTeaco Premium Silver Needles
Rare expensive tea from spring buds. The leaves are grown in China in the Fujian region, known for the excellent quality of tea plants, the uniqueness of the variety. According to buyers, the taste of this infusion is well balanced, which distinguishes it from a qualitative point of view from other industrial-type teas. Packing - sealed bags.
Weight: 500 g. How much: 3560 rubles.
Advantages:
- The best category among white varieties;
- The scent of spring, awakening flowering;
- Strict adherence to the Chinese collection tradition;
- Economical consumption.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Russian tea company Silver threads
Since 1998, the Russian tea company has been a leader in the tea and coffee market in Russia, guarantees collection in Fujian province, 100% compliance with the requirements for transportation and storage, branded packaging retains its taste for a long time. Types offered for sale: silver needles and silver threads. Different translation of the name, but it is one and the same Chinese large-leaf white long-leaved variety.
Weight: 500 g. Price: 2959 rubles.
Advantages:
- Mild sweetish taste;
- Composition without additives;
- Fast brewing;
- High-quality packaging material for preserving useful properties.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Basilur Chinese collection White tea
A tea prized for its unique floral flavor, accompanied by an intense, long lasting aroma. Processing is minimal so as not to affect palatability and preserve nutrients. Compared to other products in the variety of silver needles, it is the cheapest, therefore it is suitable for those who do not want to spend a lot, but do not want to give up the excellent quality of infusion.
Weight: 100 g. Average price: 270 rubles.
Advantages:
- Highest grade;
- Composition 100% natural;
- Exclusively from young buds;
- Fast solubility.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
White peony
Aged tea "E Sheng Lao Bai Mu dan, white peony"
Differs in a variety of tastes. When dry, there is a chocolate aroma. At the first interaction with hot water, it intensifies, there are notes of citrus, flowers and caramel. Then raspberries, cherries, acacia, honey ... Everything is intertwined, each time a new bouquet. The reviews are very good, the drink surprises, fascinates, everyone finds their own way of cooking. Another strong point is the collection of ten years ago, in the spring of 2010. This Chinese white tea is like vintage wine.
The standard weight is 357 g. The price is 4013 rubles.
Advantages:
- Qualitative composition - more buds, fewer leaves;
- Changing flavor characteristics with each brew;
- Release form - pressed pancake;
- Long-term exposure.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Di Maestri Deluxe White peony Bai Mu Dan
The tea leaf is grown in China in the Fujian region, since ancient times famous for the supply of tea crops for the imperial dynasties. The production process meets the criteria of tradition and therefore preserves its useful properties perfectly. It dissolves in water in a few minutes.
Weight: 50 g. Price: 990 rubles.
Advantages:
- Compliance with the historical site, season and collection method;
- Sweet taste does not require added sugar;
- Large-leaved of tender shoots;
- Instant infusion.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Dammann Frères Pai mu tan Pivoine blanche
Low fermentation branded product. After collection, tea buds, leaves and buds are slightly dried in the sun, this is the limitation of the processing of the white peony variety. The manufacturer recommends to infuse a little longer than other varieties to reveal the full flavor. Differs in floral aroma and persistent sweetness.
Price: 2470 rubles.
Advantages:
- Preservation of nutrients due to lack of processing;
- 100% natural composition;
- The ability to insist many times;
- Cools in hot weather, warms in cold seasons.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Show mei
Lao Shou Mei "Elder's eyebrows" ball 20 pcs.
The leaves and buds from which the tea is derived are harvested in the spring, when the shoots are in their infancy. For this reason, it is possible to get a rich, but fresh aroma and taste at the same time, which, according to buyers, is fully revealed in summer. The manufacturer has formed portions of 5-7 g. One ball is designed for a large glass.
Price: 1190 rubles for 140 g.
Advantages:
- Intense fruity honey aroma;
- Infusion in hot and cold water;
- Convenient form of release - pressed balls in foil.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Hunan East Land Tea Co., Ltd Lao Shou Mei (Longevity Eyelashes)
Chinese white tea of maximum freshness and quality. Silver eyelashes are made from early spring tea buds, which will delight tea drinkers. Each cup offers unique flavors as well as antioxidants and minerals that are beneficial to the body. Imported from a small family-owned company in China.
Weight: 10 g. Price: 700 rubles.
Advantages:
- 100% top quality tea buds;
- The cup has a light color, a soft bouquet of floral and fruity aromas;
- It is recommended to drink without milk, sugar or other additives;
- Cooking in two minutes.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Twinings Pure white tea bags
The commercial version offered by a well-known mass market tea brand. Features: very delicate sweetness and aroma. Made from plant shoots. Production in Europe after harvest in the country of origin. It's the perfect solution to enjoy a delicate drink without spending a fortune.
Weight: 30 g. Packing - 20 sachets. Average price: 243 rubles.
Advantages:
- Popular brand among tea connoisseurs;
- Availability to a wide range of consumers;
- Nice color, taste, smell;
- A practical form of release.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Gong mei
Yue Guang Bai (White Moonlight) (White Loose Puerh) Premium
An excellent sample of Chinese tea for personal consumption. It is recommended to drink 2-3 cups every day for better health. No added fragrances. Only 100% natural tea leaves. Can be consumed at any time of the day.
Price for 10 g - 900 rubles.
Advantages:
- Pleasant organoleptic characteristics;
- Natural composition;
- Limited editions, produced in small quantities;
- Like everyone who drinks it.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Yue Guang Mei Ren tea (Beauty in the Moonlight)
Each tea leaf for this type is selected and prepared with great attention to quality in order to offer the consumer a product with a pleasant taste and beneficial properties for the body.
Average price: 115 rubles for 20 g.
Advantages:
- Delicate delicate taste;
- Pronounced tonic effect;
- Rapid infusion;
- Pure transparent infusion.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Richard Royal white tea bags
Although it is a high quality branded product, it is selling at a price that most buyers find to be beneficial and this is a reason to add it to the rating. Packaged immediately after harvest, there is no fear that the quality of the leaves has been altered by exposure to light or air. The firm respects the eastern tradition of tea production.
Price: 96 rubles.
Advantages:
- Availability to a wide range of consumers;
- Delicate, delicate, velvety taste;
- Brews quickly and economically.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Cooking tips
General rules apply to any type of tea. First of all, use a transparent or ceramic teapot that has never been treated with detergents. Drink water without lime. Brew by spilling or infusing, if desired.
But there are some peculiarities. The water should not be too hot. The ideal temperature is 80 degrees, corresponding to the beginning of the boiling process. 200 ml requires about 2.5 grams of tea. Alternatively, a sachet or ball is used, already correctly dosed for one cup. The recommended infusion time is 2 to 7 minutes, depending on taste. According to most connoisseurs, the longer the better.
With the spill method, the water should be slightly hotter, 90 degrees. You can spill up to fifteen times. From five grams originally used per 100 ml, the result is one and a half liters of tea.
If the recommended temperature is exceeded, a bitter taste appears.
White tea has rare properties: the same tea leaves or sachets can be infused several times; some types are brewed even in cold water; does not require the addition of sweeteners or milk.
The color of the finished drink is by no means white, it is similar to classic green tea with a predominance of yellow.
Conclusion
Chinese white tea is obtained from only the most delicate parts of the plant, on certain days of the year, and with minimal processing. This drink is a powerful remedy for weight loss, anti-aging and protection of the circulatory system. Natural and rich in polyphenols. Sweet, soft, delicate taste is best expressed with prolonged infusion and a temperature of 80 degrees.
If you are a lover of white tea, share your opinion, which company is the best product and where to buy quality products.