html

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

Introduction

When it comes to premium Chinese green teas, First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea and Biluochun Green Tea stand out as two of the most revered varieties. Both teas boast rich histories, unique flavors, and meticulous production processes. In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between these two exceptional teas to help you decide which one suits your palate.

Origins and History

First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea

Dragon Well Tea, or Longjing, originates from the West Lake region in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. With a history dating back over 1,200 years, it is often referred to as the “National Tea of China.” The first-grade designation signifies the highest quality, featuring tender buds and a flat, smooth appearance.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun, meaning “Green Snail Spring,” hails from Dongting Mountain in Jiangsu Province. Its name comes from the tea’s tightly curled leaves, resembling snail shells, and its early spring harvest. Biluochun is celebrated for its delicate aroma and fruity undertones.

Appearance and Aroma

First Grade Dragon Well Tea

First Grade Dragon Well Tea is characterized by its flat, spear-shaped leaves with a vibrant jade-green color. The aroma is fresh and grassy, with subtle chestnut notes. When brewed, the leaves unfurl gracefully, releasing a smooth, mellow fragrance.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun leaves are small, tightly coiled, and covered with fine white hairs, giving them a silvery-green appearance. The aroma is intensely floral and fruity, often compared to apricot or peach blossoms. The scent is so potent that it’s said to “perfume the entire room.”

Flavor Profile

First Grade Dragon Well Tea

Dragon Well Tea offers a clean, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor with a refreshing aftertaste. The first-grade variety is exceptionally smooth, with no bitterness, making it a favorite among green tea enthusiasts.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun is known for its bold, complex flavor. It combines floral, fruity, and vegetal notes with a lingering sweetness. The taste is more robust than Dragon Well, with a slightly astringent finish that adds depth.

Brewing Methods

First Grade Dragon Well Tea

To brew Dragon Well Tea, use water heated to 75-80°C (167-176°F). Steep for 1-2 minutes to avoid bitterness. The leaves can be reinfused multiple times, with each steeping revealing new layers of flavor.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun requires slightly cooler water, around 70-75°C (158-167°F), due to its delicate leaves. Steep for 1 minute initially, adjusting to taste. The leaves unfurl quickly, releasing their aromatic compounds in the first infusion.

Health Benefits

Both teas are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They aid in digestion, boost metabolism, and promote mental clarity. Dragon Well Tea is particularly noted for its calming effects