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Yunnan Black Tea:Sun-dried or Dianhong
Yunnan Province is renowned for its unique types of Yunnan black tea, with Sun-Dried Black Tea (日晒红茶) and Dianhong Tea (滇红) standing out as two of the most famous varieties. Both teas share a similar basic production process, involving steps such as withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying. However, they differ in several key aspects, including fermentation level, drying method, flavor profile, and how they change over time when stored. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two Yunnan black teas, giving you a deeper understanding of their distinct qualities.
1. An Introduction to Black Tea
Black tea is one of China’s six main tea types, originating during the Ming Dynasty in the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian Province. Unlike green tea, black tea undergoes full fermentation, transforming tea polyphenols into theaflavins, which give the tea its signature red liquor and complex flavors.
- Fermentation Level: 70%-90%
- Production Process: Withering → Rolling → Fermentation → Drying
- Key Regions: Fujian Black Tea(Lapsang Souchong), Yunnan Black Tea (Dianhong, Sun-Dried Black Tea), Anhui (Keemun)
- Flavor Profile: Smooth, sweet, with floral and fruity notes, and minimal bitterness
- Caffeine Content: Low
Yunnan Black Tea: Sun-Dried Black Tea
Made from the medium to small leaf varieties of Yunnan’s large-leaf tea plants, Sun-dried Black Tea is produced using the traditional sun-drying process, with ancient tree sun-dried and wild sun-dried teas being the highest quality. This method originates from the folk traditions of Yunnan and has a long history.
Yunnan Black Tea: Dianhong Black Tea
Made from the large-leaf varieties of Yunnan’s large-leaf tea plants, Dianhong is dried using a roasting method to enhance its fragrance. The best Dianhong comes from Fengqing, Yunnan, and its production process was developed and refined in 1937.
2. Yunnan Black Tea: Sun-dried Black Tea and Dianhong Tea
1. Fermentation Level
- Sun-dried Black Tea: Typically undergoes a lower level of fermentation, around 70% or higher. This allows the tea to retain more of its natural flavors, resulting in a fresher, lighter tea.
- Dianhong Tea: Generally undergoes a higher level of fermentation, usually above 80%, which results in a more robust and complex tea with a deeper flavor profile.
2. Drying Method
- Sun-dried Black Tea: This tea is dried naturally under the sun, a method that helps preserve the enzymatic activity in the leaves. Sun-drying contributes to a richer aroma and flavor profile, allowing the tea to develop more complexity over time. The slow, natural drying process enhances the tea’s natural characteristics.
- Dianhong Tea: Dianhong tea is dried using a high-temperature roasting method, which rapidly removes moisture and halts the fermentation process. This method is standardized, giving the tea a consistent flavor and aroma.
3. Flavor and Aroma
- Sun-dried Black Tea: Known for its distinct floral and fruity aroma, Yunnan Black Tea offers a refreshing, sweet taste. Over time, as it ages, the tea becomes richer and more mellow, with the sweetness becoming more pronounced. This tea is ideal for those who enjoy a smoother, lighter black tea.
- Dianhong Tea: Dianhong has a more intense and elevated aroma, with a strong, rich flavor. It often carries notes of malt, along with a sweet, smooth aftertaste. The bold, complex flavor makes it suitable for those who enjoy a more robust and invigorating tea experience.
4. Storage Changes
- Sun-Dried Black Tea: This tea can be stored for extended periods, and its flavor improves with age. Over time, the tea becomes more full-bodied and its sweetness intensifies, making it a good choice for long-term storage.(See how to storage tea in a proper way—-5 Eco-Friendly Methods for Storing Tea)
- Dianhong Tea: Dianhong tea reaches its peak flavor within about six months of production. After that, its aroma begins to fade, and its flavor may become more acidic with extended storage, typically remaining good for about 2-3 years.
3. Conclusion: Choosing Between Sun-Dried Black Tea and Dianhong Tea
Both Sun-Dried Black Tea and Dianhong Tea have distinct qualities that make them beloved in the world of Yunnan black tea. Sun-Dried Black Tea stands out for its natural, sun-dried production method, light, floral notes, and long-term aging potential. On the other hand, Dianhong Tea is known for its robust, complex flavor and consistent production process, ideal for those who prefer a bolder cup of tea.
Ultimately, the choice between these two teas comes down to personal preference. Whether you enjoy the gentle, aging-friendly profile of Sun-Dried Black Tea or the powerful, rich flavor of Dianhong, both offer a taste of Yunnan’s rich tea culture and heritage.
At Purcrftea, we are proud to offer our premium Sun-Dried Black Tea, sourced from the ancient tea forests of Jingmai Mountain, one of Yunnan’s most prized regions for tea cultivation.
To learn more about other kinds of tea—-Discover the 6 Types of Chinese Tea: A Complete Guide
