What is Yellow Tea?

Yellow tea is a unique type of tea that holds a special place in the world of tea. Native to China, yellow tea is known for its delicate and mellow flavor profile, making it a prized addition to any tea collection.

Origin and Production

Yellow tea is produced in limited quantities, primarily in Hunan, Zhejiang, and Sichuan provinces of China. One of the most famous types is Junshan Yinzhen, which is grown on Junshan Island in Hunan Province. Yellow tea production involves a complex process that mimics that of green tea but with an added unique step called "sealed yellowing" or "menhuan."

The production process begins with picking the fresh leaves, usually the tender buds or a bud with one or two very young leaves. These leaves are then withered slightly to reduce their moisture content. Next, they undergo a fixing process, which involves heating the leaves like green tea but usually for a shorter time and at a lower temperature.

The unique step in yellow tea production is the "sealed yellowing" process. The leaves, while still warm and moist, are wrapped in cloth or paper to allow for a slight oxidation to occur. This warm, wet, and enclosed environment encourages some extra oxidation and perhaps a little fermentation, a process the Chinese refer to as "reabsorbing essence." After a day or two, the leaves are unwrapped, and sometimes the process is repeated. When the producer feels that the right level of yellowing has been achieved, the tea is then dried, usually by baking over charcoal at low temperatures.

Flavor Profile

Yellow tea is often described as having a slightly sweet and floral taste, with a smooth and refreshing finish. Since the oxidation of yellow tea is stopped partially by heating and partially by drying, it can be considered as a tea that sits in-between white and green tea. The result is a light, aromatic beverage with a yellow liquor that is both visually and sensorially appealing.

Varieties

Yellow tea is classified into several varieties based on the size of the leaves used:

1. Yellow Bud Tea (Huang Ya Cha): Made from the tender buds only. Examples include Junshan Yinzhen and Meng Ding Huang Ya.
2. Yellow Small Tea (Huang Xiao Cha): Made from a bud and one or two young leaves. Examples include Weishan Maojian and Pingyang Huang Tang.
3. Yellow Large Tea (Huang Da Cha): Made from mature leaves. Examples include Huang Da Cha from Anhui and Guangdong.

Health Benefits

Yellow tea is celebrated for its health benefits. Like other teas, yellow tea is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. It is often enjoyed for its calming and soothing effects on the body and mind.

Conclusion

In summary, yellow tea is a unique and prized type of tea that offers a delicate and mellow flavor profile. Its production process involves a unique "sealed yellowing" step that gives the tea its characteristic yellow color and distinct flavor. With its health benefits and rarity, yellow tea is a cherished beverage that is gaining popularity among tea connoisseurs worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned tea drinker or just starting your tea journey, exploring the world of yellow tea is a delightful experience that is sure to delight your senses.