Why isn’t Lao Cha Po called Liu Bao Tea? Unveiling the relationship between Liu Bao Tea and Lao Cha Po
Liu Bao tea, as one of China’s traditional teas, enjoys a high reputation. Within the world of Liu Bao tea, there is a special type of tea—Lao Cha Po—that often raises the question: Why isn’t Lao Cha Po called Liu Bao tea? In fact, Lao Cha Po and Liu Bao tea are closely related, but they are not exactly the same concept. This article will provide a detailed answer to this question and help you understand the different classifications of Liu Bao tea and the production techniques behind them.
1.Lao Cha Po is one of the classifications of Liu Bao Tea
Liu Bao tea is a broad category that includes different types of tea, while Lao Cha Po is a specific subcategory under Liu Bao tea. Liu Bao tea is divided into traditional craft Liu Bao tea and modern craft Liu Bao tea. Among these, Lao Cha Po is one type of traditional craft Liu Bao tea, made using a unique process and picked during a specific time of year.
2.The picking and production process of Lao Cha Po
Lao Cha Po does not refer to aged tea with years of storage, but rather to tea leaves harvested from older tea trees. These leaves are usually picked around a week before or after the “Frost’s Descent” solar term, and they are older, with a higher concentration of nutrients. Due to the unique picking time and leaf quality, Lao Cha Po develops a distinctive flavor. In terms of production, Lao Cha Po uses traditional piling fermentation techniques, which, over time, imbue it with a unique aged aroma.
3.Classifications of Liu Bao Tea: Traditional vs. Modern Craft
Liu Bao tea is mainly divided into two categories based on the production process: traditional craft Liu Bao tea and modern craft Liu Bao tea. Traditional craft Liu Bao tea focuses on natural fermentation and handcrafting, retaining more traditional flavors. In contrast, modern craft Liu Bao tea uses modern equipment and techniques, making the production process more efficient, with flavors that may be lighter or fresher.
4.How to choose the right Liu Bao tea and Lao Cha Po for you?
1.Choose based on flavor: If you prefer a rich, aged flavor with strong aged and earthy aromas, Lao Cha Po might be your best choice. After piling fermentation, it has a pronounced aged fragrance and earthy notes. If you prefer a lighter, fresher taste, you can opt for modern craft Liu Bao tea.
2.Choose based on production process: For those who prefer traditional handcraft tea, traditional craft Liu Bao tea would be more suitable. If you care more about efficient production and modern techniques, then modern craft Liu Bao tea might be the right option.