Origins and History of Bi Luo Chun Tea
Bi Luo Chun tea, one of China’s top ten famous teas, originates from the Dongting Mountains in Jiangsu Province. This tea is cherished for its delicate floral aroma, tender leaves, and smooth taste.
The name “Bi Luo Chun” (碧螺春) translates to “Green Snail Spring”, describing its spiral-shaped leaves that resemble a snail’s shell and its harvest season in early spring.
According to legend, an emperor from the Qing Dynasty was so impressed by the tea’s exquisite fragrance that he renamed it “Bi Luo Chun”, replacing its earlier name, “Scary Fragrance” (吓煞人香). This was because the tea’s strong natural aroma surprised those who encountered it for the first time.
The tea-growing regions of Dongting East Mountain and West Mountain have a mild climate, fertile soil, and misty environment, which contribute to the tea’s refined taste and rich nutrients.
Characteristics of Bi Luo Chun Tea
Appearance
The unique twisted, spiral-shaped leaves of Bi Luo Chun are:
✔ Tightly curled and downy – Due to meticulous hand-rolling
✔ Small and delicate – Made from the youngest buds and leaves
✔ Silvery-green in color – A sign of high-quality freshness
When steeped, the leaves gracefully unfurl, revealing their tender structure.
Aroma
One of the defining traits of Bi Luo Chun is its intensely floral and fruity fragrance, which results from the tea plants being grown among peach, plum, and apricot trees.
The aroma includes:
✔ Orchid and jasmine-like floral notes
✔ Fruity sweetness with hints of peach and apricot
✔ A fresh, slightly grassy undertone
Taste Profile
Bi Luo Chun tea offers a delicate yet complex taste:
✔ Smooth, light, and refreshing
✔ Naturally sweet with a slightly nutty aftertaste
✔ A lingering, soft umami flavor
Unlike some green teas that can be overly bitter, Bi Luo Chun is known for its gentle, well-balanced flavor with a subtle sweetness that lingers on the palate.
Harvesting and Processing of Bi Luo Chun
The exceptional quality of Bi Luo Chun tea comes from its careful cultivation, hand-picking, and meticulous processing.
Early Spring Harvesting
Bi Luo Chun is harvested in early spring (March to April) when the leaves are still young and tender. Only the youngest buds and first leaves are picked, ensuring a high concentration of nutrients and delicate flavors.
High-quality Bi Luo Chun tea follows the one bud, one leaf picking standard, where only the finest, unopened buds are selected.
Hand-Rolling and Drying
After harvesting, the leaves go through a careful drying and rolling process:
- Pan-Frying – The leaves are heated in a large wok at a low temperature to stop oxidation.
- Hand-Rolling – Tea masters gently roll the leaves into their signature spiral shape.
- Slow Drying – The tea is dried at a precise temperature to lock in flavor and aroma.
This traditional method preserves the tea’s delicate aroma and taste, distinguishing it from machine-processed teas.
Grades and Quality of Bi Luo Chun
Bi Luo Chun tea is classified into different grades based on leaf size, appearance, and taste.
| Grade | Characteristics | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Grade (特级) | Small, tender buds with silvery-white fuzz | Floral, fruity, and sweet with no bitterness |
| First Grade (一级) | Slightly larger leaves, tightly curled | Sweet, smooth, and fresh with a delicate aroma |
| Second Grade (二级) | Looser curls, slightly darker color | Balanced taste with mild grassy notes |
| Third Grade (三级) | Larger leaves, more open structure | Stronger vegetal taste, less sweet |
The higher the grade, the more delicate and fragrant the tea. Authentic Bi Luo Chun from Dongting Mountain is the most prized variety.
Health Benefits of Bi Luo Chun Tea
Bi Luo Chun is not only a luxurious tea experience but also offers numerous health benefits.
☑ Rich in Antioxidants
Bi Luo Chun is loaded with polyphenols and catechins, which help:
✔ Neutralize free radicals and prevent cell damage
✔ Reduce inflammation and slow down aging
✔ Lower the risk of chronic diseases
☑ Boosts Metabolism and Aids Digestion
The EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) and caffeine content in Bi Luo Chun tea:
✔ Increases fat burning and aids weight loss
✔ Improves digestion and gut health
✔ Reduces bloating and supports liver function
☑ Enhances Mental Clarity and Reduces Stress
Bi Luo Chun contains L-theanine, an amino acid that:
✔ Promotes relaxation without drowsiness
✔ Boosts cognitive function and alertness
✔ Helps manage stress and anxiety
☑ Supports Heart Health
Drinking Bi Luo Chun tea regularly can:
✔ Lower cholesterol and blood pressure
✔ Improve circulation and reduce the risk of heart disease
✔ Strengthen blood vessels
☑ Strengthens the Immune System
The vitamins and minerals in Bi Luo Chun tea:
✔ Boost the immune system
✔ Help fight infections and colds
✔ Support overall wellness
How to Brew Bi Luo Chun Tea Properly
🍵 Traditional Brewing Method
To fully appreciate the delicate flavors of Bi Luo Chun, it must be brewed with care.
✔ Use Fresh, Filtered Water – Spring water is best.
✔ Optimal Water Temperature: 75–85°C (167–185°F) – Too hot, and the tea becomes bitter.
✔ Tea-to-Water Ratio: 3g tea per 150ml water – Adjust based on preference.
✔ Steeping Time: 1st steep – 1 min, 2nd steep – 30 sec, 3rd steep – 1 min
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
- Preheat the Teapot or Glass Cup – Rinse with hot water.
- Add Bi Luo Chun Tea Leaves – Use a glass or porcelain teapot.
- Pour Hot Water Gently – Avoid pouring directly onto the leaves.
- Watch the Leaves Unfurl – The tea will release its natural fragrance.
- Sip and Enjoy – Appreciate the tea’s floral and fruity notes.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a glass cup to see the tea leaves dance elegantly in the water!
Conclusion: Why Bi Luo Chun Tea Stands Out
Bi Luo Chun is a treasured Chinese green tea with:
✔ A unique spiral-shaped appearance
✔ A rich floral and fruity aroma
✔ A smooth, naturally sweet taste
✔ Numerous health benefits
Its delicate processing and prestigious reputation make it one of the most sought-after teas in the world.
🌿 Have you tried Bi Luo Chun? Share your thoughts below!
