The Chinese character for “taste” in the context of tea tasting consists of three mouths, symbolizing appraisal, appreciation, and experiencing the material and spiritual enjoyment that tea brings. Tea tasting differs from simply drinking tea; the latter primarily aims to quench thirst and satisfy physiological needs, often gulping down a bowl of tea without much ceremony. In contrast, tea tasting seeks spiritual fulfillment, emphasizing ambiance and treating tea drinking as an artistic appreciation. It involves savoring the tea slowly and mindfully, deriving aesthetic pleasure from the color, aroma, flavor, and shape of the tea, and expressing emotions from various perspectives.
Observing the Color
This primarily involves observing the color of the tea infusion and the shape of the tea leaves. After steeping, the leaves change shape, almost returning to their natural state. The color of the infusion deepens, becoming clear and bright. Even among similar types of tea, the colors can vary based on the age of the leaves. Observing the color changes in dark tea is a delightful experience, and it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the infusion before drinking.
Savoring the Aroma
After observing the color, one should smell the aroma of the tea infusion in the pitcher. High-quality tea has a natural and pure fragrance that is invigorating and intoxicating. Inferior tea, on the other hand, usually has a weak or impure aroma, sometimes with smoky or grassy notes or even mixed with odd odors. The aroma of tea is a complex combination of various aromatic compounds. To fully appreciate the nuances, one must taste carefully and discern them attentively.
Determining the Shape
Observe the shape changes of the tea leaves after steeping. After being soaked in water, the leaves gradually return to their original fresh leaf form. Due to differences in variety, region, and tree age, the shapes of the leaves in dark tea can vary. From these shapes, one can trace the origin of the tea and understand its transformation during storage. Enjoying the process of these shape changes can be immensely rewarding.
Tasting the Flavor
After smelling the aroma of the tea infusion, it's time to taste its flavor. Like the aroma, the flavor of tea is complex and diverse. Upon the first sip, the mouth quickly fills with saliva, leaving an endless aftertaste. This is due to the chemical components in the tea stimulating different parts of the mouth.