Chinese Tea Dictionary
回甘
“A lingering and long-lasting sweetness in the mouth.”
Hui(回) return; Gan(甘) sweet.
The feeling refers to the specific taste formed by the joint action of bitter and sweet substances in tea leaves. At beginning, the bitterness prevails.
However later the bitterness starts melting away and the sweetness stands out.
Hui Gan is a fascinating phenomenon that captivates the palates of Chinese tea drinkers. It refers to the lingering and returning sweetness experienced in the mouth and throat after taking a sip of tea. It is a desirable sensation that enhances the overall tea-drinking experience.
When the tea leaves release their flavors and essences during steeping, they interact with the taste buds, leaving behind a subtle and gentle sweetness that gradually unfolds. This sweetness is not immediate but emerges gradually, building up and enveloping the mouth with a comforting and satisfying sensation. It creates a delightful contrast to any initial bitterness or astringency that may have been present, bringing a sense of balance and harmony to the taste profile of the tea.
The concept of “Hui Gan” goes beyond mere sweetness. It encompasses a complexity of flavors that evolve and develop over time, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. The duration and intensity of “Hui Gan” can vary depending on the type of tea, its quality, and the brewing technique employed. It is highly valued among tea enthusiasts, as it indicates the presence of high-quality tea leaves and skilled craftsmanship in tea production.
Experiencing “Hui Gan” is like embarking on a sensory journey, where the initial taste transforms into a lingering aftertaste of sweetness that gradually fades away, leaving a pleasant and satisfying memory. It adds depth and dimension to the overall flavor profile of the tea, enhancing the enjoyment and creating a memorable tea-drinking experience.
In Chinese tea culture, the presence of “Hui Gan” is often regarded as a mark of excellence and is sought after by connoisseurs who appreciate the intricacies and subtleties of tea. It is an attribute that elevates the tea-drinking experience, evoking a sense of contentment, and leaving a delightful impression long after the last sip has been savored.
Summary:
Hui Gan refers to the lingering sweetness and aftertaste that emerges after sipping tea. It is a desirable quality that adds depth and complexity to the tea drinking experience. Hui Gan can vary in intensity and duration, ranging from subtle and fleeting to pronounced and long-lasting. This characteristic is highly valued by tea connoisseurs, as it enhances the overall enjoyment and satisfaction derived from drinking tea.
生津
“The feeling of revitalization.”
Sheng Jin(生津) “generating body fluids” or “moistening the mouth.”
Holds special significance among Chinese tea drinkers. It refers to the ability of tea to quench thirst and moisten the mouth, providing a refreshing and hydrating sensation. In Chinese tea culture, Sheng Jin is highly valued for its rejuvenating and revitalizing qualities.
When tea is described as having Sheng Jin, it signifies its ability to replenish fluids and nourish the body. This is particularly important in a country where tea is deeply ingrained in daily life and considered an essential element of maintaining balance and harmony.
Teas with notable Sheng Jin characteristics are cherished for their ability to relieve dryness and soothe the senses. They are often sought after by individuals who appreciate the gentle and cooling effects they bring, especially during hot weather or when seeking relief from internal heat.
Green teas and certain herbal infusions are known to possess Sheng Jin qualities. These teas are typically mild and subtly sweet, leaving a delightful and moisturizing aftertaste. They offer a natural remedy to combat dryness-related discomforts such as a parched mouth or a feeling of thirst.
For Chinese tea drinkers, the concept of Sheng Jin extends beyond physical hydration. It embodies a deeper connection to nature and a harmonious relationship with one’s body. The act of savoring a cup of tea with Sheng Jin not only quenches thirst but also invigorates the spirit, bringing a sense of calm and satisfaction.
In the realm of Chinese tea, Sheng Jin is revered as an essential attribute that enhances the overall tea-drinking experience. It represents the qualities that make tea a cherished companion in moments of relaxation and introspection, offering a respite from the demands of everyday life.
Summary:
Sheng Jin in the context of Chinese tea culture signifies the ability of tea to quench thirst, moisturize the mouth, and revitalize the body. Teas with Sheng Jin characteristics are highly sought after for their refreshing and hydrating qualities. They provide not only physical hydration but also a connection to nature and a source of inner tranquility.
毫香
“A unique and special aroma from the tea broth.”
Hao Xiang(毫香) “subtle fragrance” or “delicate aroma.”
refers to the captivating aroma that arises from the delicate tea hair, creating a unique and enchanting sensory experience for tea drinkers. “Hao” specifically signifies the fine, downy tea hair, which is a prized characteristic often associated with high-quality teas. These fine hairs not only enhance the visual appeal of the leaves but also contribute to the aromatic journey of the brewed tea.
When tea enthusiasts use the term “hao xiang,” they are appreciating the subtle and fragrant notes that arise from these tea hairs during the brewing process. It’s like encountering the scent of the wilderness, as if the tea leaves have captured the essence of nature’s breath. The presence of abundant tea hair infuses the tea with a freshness reminiscent of breathing in crisp, revitalizing air, further enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Teas with ample tea hair release a fragrance that combines floral, herbal, and sometimes fruity notes, evoking a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world. This wilderness-like aroma, intertwined with the fresh breathing air, creates an atmosphere of serenity and appreciation for the tea’s origin and craftsmanship.
So, when encountering “hao xiang” in the world of Chinese tea, it is an invitation to indulge in the exquisite fragrance derived from the delicate tea hair, which brings forth the essence of the wilderness and the invigorating qualities of fresh breathing air. It is an invitation to immerse oneself in the delightful journey of aroma and taste that awaits within each cup of tea.
Summary:
Encapsulates the alluring aroma that emanates from the delicate tea hair found on the leaves. It transports one to a world of enchanting scents, reminiscent of the wilderness, where the tea captures the essence of nature’s breath.
生味
“Taste of Grass or Green.”
Sheng Wei(生味) “raw taste” or “raw flavor.”
a characteristic inherent to Chinese tea, refers to the raw, unprocessed taste that can sometimes be perceived as slightly unpleasant or harsh. It embodies the natural essence of the tea leaves before they undergo oxidation or aging. While some tea connoisseurs appreciate the invigorating and vibrant quality of sheng wei, others may find it challenging to embrace, as it can be astringent, grassy, or even bitter. However, it is this initial rawness that holds the potential for transformation and maturation with time and proper storage, allowing the tea to develop complex flavors and textures. Although sheng wei may not immediately captivate every palate, it is an integral part of the journey for those seeking the authentic and evolving experience of Chinese tea.
Summary:
“Sheng wei” in Chinese tea refers to the raw and unprocessed taste that can be perceived as slightly harsh or unpleasant for some, while others might find it pleasant (in our personal opinion, very few find this taste pleasing).
喉韵
“Best combined taste in your throat, with the right tea.”
Hou Yun(喉韵) “throat feeling” or “throat sensation.”
It is often used in the context of describing the tactile experience or sensation that occurs in the throat when consuming certain foods or beverages, particularly in relation to tea.
In the realm of tea tasting, Hou Yun refers to the feeling or sensation that is perceived in the throat after swallowing tea. It is an aspect of the tea’s mouthfeel that specifically focuses on the sensations experienced in the throat.
Hou Yun can vary depending on the tea and its characteristics. It is often associated with the smoothness, richness, or lingering aftertaste that a tea leaves in the throat. A tea with good Hou Yun is typically described as having a pleasant and long-lasting sensation in the throat, which can contribute to the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of the tea-drinking experience.
The concept of Hou Yun is closely related to the “finish” or “aftertaste” of a tea, but it specifically emphasizes the sensations experienced in the throat rather than the mouth or taste buds.
Tea connoisseurs and enthusiasts pay attention to the quality of Hou Yun when evaluating and describing teas. It is considered one of the factors that contribute to the overall character and complexity of a tea. A tea with excellent Hou Yun is often seen as more refined and satisfying.
It’s important to note that the perception of Hou Yun can be subjective and can vary among individuals. Different teas can evoke different sensations in the throat, ranging from smooth and soothing to more pronounced or lingering. Personal preferences for the quality and intensity of Hou Yun can also differ.
Summary:
Hou Yun refers to the throat feeling, or sensation experienced when consuming tea. It represents the tactile experience in the throat after swallowing and is associated with the smoothness, richness, and lingering aftertaste of the tea. It is an important aspect of tea evaluation and appreciation, adding depth and complexity to the overall tea-drinking experience.
收敛度
“Time astringency.”
Shoulian Du(收敛度) “astringency” or “astringent quality.”
It is often used in the context of describing the taste and mouthfeel of various foods and beverages, including tea.
In tea tasting, Shoulian Du refers to the sensation of dryness, puckering, or tightening in the mouth and throat that is often associated with certain types of teas, particularly those high in tannins. It is the opposite of sweetness or smoothness in taste.
When a tea has a higher level of Shoulian Du, it means that it exhibits a more pronounced astringency. This can be experienced as a dry or rough feeling on the tongue, similar to the sensation you might feel when biting into an unripe fruit or consuming strong black tea.
Astringency in tea is mainly caused by the presence of tannins, which are natural compounds found in tea leaves. During the brewing process, these compounds are released into the tea liquor, resulting in astringent qualities.
It’s important to note that Shoulian Du is subjective and can vary depending on personal taste preferences. Some tea drinkers appreciate a certain level of astringency as it adds complexity and depth to the tea’s flavor profile, while others may prefer teas with milder or less astringent qualities.
Tea professionals and enthusiasts often evaluate and discuss Shoulian Du when describing the characteristics of a tea. It is one of the factors considered when assessing the overall balance and mouthfeel of a tea, along with other aspects such as aroma, taste, and body.
Summary:
Shoulian Du refers to the astringent quality or dryness experienced in the mouth and throat when consuming certain teas. It is caused by the presence of tannins and adds a unique dimension to the flavor profile of a tea.
体感
“The sudden mixed feeling after an infusion.”
Ti Gan(体感) “body sensation” or “physical perception.”
It is often used in the context of describing the tactile or physical experience that one feels when consuming certain foods or beverages, including tea.
In the realm of tea tasting, Ti Gan refers to the tactile sensations or physical aspects that can be experienced while drinking tea. It goes beyond just the taste and aroma and focuses on the physical responses and sensations in the mouth, throat, and body.
Ti Gan can encompass various elements, such as the thickness or viscosity of the tea liquor, the smoothness or roughness of the texture, and the sensation of astringency or dryness in the mouth. It can also include the cooling or warming effects that the tea imparts on the body.
For example, when drinking certain teas, one may perceive a thick and velvety texture in the mouth, a gentle cooling sensation, or a slight drying effect. These physical aspects contribute to the overall Ti Gan of the tea and add to the sensory experience.
Ti Gan is an important aspect of tea appreciation as it enhances the overall enjoyment and understanding of a tea’s characteristics. It allows tea drinkers to engage with the tea on a deeper level by paying attention to the physical sensations it evokes.
Summary:
Ti Gan refers to the physical perception or body sensation experienced while consuming tea, encompassing aspects such as texture, astringency, cooling or warming effects, and other physical responses. It adds another dimension to the sensory experience of tea and contributes to a holistic understanding and appreciation of its qualities.
野韵
“As one enters the forest.”
Ye Yun(野韵) “wild charm” or “natural elegance.”
It is often used in the context of describing certain qualities or characteristics of tea.
In the realm of tea appreciation, Ye Yun refers to the distinct and unique flavors, aromas, and textures that are found in teas grown in their natural environment. These teas are typically cultivated in the wild or semi-wild conditions, allowing them to absorb the essence of their surroundings and develop a special charm that reflects their natural origins.
Ye Yun can manifest in various ways in tea. It may encompass a range of flavors, such as floral, fruity, grassy, or earthy notes, which are often accompanied by a certain depth and complexity. It can also encompass the tea’s aroma, which may be fresh, aromatic, or evocative of the surrounding environment where the tea is grown.
Furthermore, Ye Yun extends beyond the taste and aroma of the tea to include the overall experience it offers. It embodies a sense of natural elegance, purity, and a connection to nature that can be appreciated by tea connoisseurs.
When used in tea descriptions or discussions, Ye Yun highlights the appreciation for teas that retain their natural qualities, showcasing the unique characteristics derived from their wild or semi-wild origins. It signifies a desire to experience teas that possess a distinct charm, deeply rooted in the essence of nature itself.
Summary:
Ye Yun refers to the distinctive flavors, aromas, and textures found in teas that are grown in their natural environment. These teas, often cultivated in the wild or semi-wild conditions, absorb the essence of their surroundings, resulting in a special charm that reflects their natural origins. Ye Yun encompasses a range of flavors, aromas, and overall experiences, showcasing the tea’s connection to nature and its inherent purity. It signifies a desire for teas that retain their natural qualities and possess a unique charm derived from their wild or semi-wild origins.
