Scented teas are an exciting category in the world of tea, offering a delightful departure from the traditional processing by infusing natural fragrances into the leaves. Among these, Jasmine Tea stands out as a more well-known and beloved variety, known for its meticulous crafting process that beautifully merges the essence of jasmine flowers with green tea leaves. This unique approach to tea production adds an extra layer of aroma and flavor, making scented teas a popular choice for those seeking a sensory experience in every cup.
The scenting process is extremely tedious and labor intensive. It begins with the careful selection of tender green tea leaves, often harvested in the spring when they are at their freshest. These leaves will then serve as the canvas for the aromatic infusion. These green tea leaves are layered with freshly harvested jasmine blossoms in the morning. The timing is crucial, as it typically occurs during the drying phase of the tea leaves. As the jasmine flowers open and release their delicate fragrance, the green tea leaves eagerly absorb these ethereal aromas. Jasmine blossoms that undergo the drying process gradually decays and will require removal before the onset of bitter flavors. This optimization requires both precision and expertise to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
The scenting cycle is repeated multiple times, often between 6 to 10 rounds, allowing the leaves to absorb the desired level of jasmine fragrance. This traditional process, reminiscent of traditional tea craftsmanship, contributes to the nuanced and well-balanced character of Jasmine Tea.
Unlike flavored teas that may use powder additives or essential oils, the beauty of scented teas like jasmine lies in its authenticity. The fragrance is derived solely from the natural interaction between the tea leaves and jasmine blossoms, resulting in a tea that encapsulates the pure essence of both components. One simple way to tell an authentic scented tea is the ability for it to be re-steeped continuously without the loss of its fragrance and taste.
The end product is a tea that not only delights the senses with its floral notes but also maintains the inherent qualities of the green tea base. This careful infusion of fragrance creates a harmonious and refreshing cup, makes Jasmine Tea a timeless classic. Even though Jasmine is mentioned here, several well-known scented teas have earned popularity over the ages like chrysanthemum or osmanthus teas that leverages a similar approach to establish their distinctive aromas and flavors.
