What is Silver Needle Tea?
Silver Needle tea is a rare white tea from China's Fujian province. Due to its delicate structure, it can only be harvested once over two days in early spring. The Chinese government imposes stringent regulations over Silver Needle tea's production, adding to its rarity and quality. The tea has a long history in China, once being only available to the Imperial family, and has recently gained popularity in the United States. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
Silver Needle tea is a type of white tea that dates back to late 19th-century China. According to Adiago Tea Company, white teas had been in existence in China since the 18th century, though they were bunched, unfired, and withered, and not selected for taste or flavor. In 1891, Silver Needle leaves were hand selected because of their healthy, large, silver leaves, and the popular type of Silver Needle tea, White Peony, was ultimately produced in 1922.
Flavor
-
This flavor of Silver Needle tea is slightly sweet with a trace of nuttiness, reminiscent of almond. Most types of Silver Needle tea, including White Peony and Bai Hao, have similar flavors. If you want to reap the benefits of green tea but are not found of the strong flavor, a delicate white tea like Silver Needle is a good alternative.
-
Caffeine
-
The intensity of Silver Needle tea is low. Because of its purity, the taste of the tea is quite subtle and the caffeine is always low. This is in contrast to many other white teas that may be higher in caffeine than green tea.
Benefits
-
Researchers have looked into the health benefits of white tea for years. One study, published by Science News in April 2000 titled, "The Power of Caffeine and Pale Tea" found that white teas are filled with antioxidants and can be five times more effective in preventing cancers than green teas. Silver Needle Tea is rare among even white teas, especially because it cuts out the caffeine, which can benefit those who would like to have a low-caffeine tea but still benefit from the antioxidant rich white tea.
How to Brew Silver Needle Tea
-
Silver Needle tea brews best with water at 180 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that the water should be almost boiling, but not rolling. After you have added the water to the tea, allow it to steep for five minutes. If you add additional tea to the pot it needs just three minutes to steep.
-
References
- Photo Credit White Tea in transparent cup image by Krista Kalbin from Fotolia.com
