Award Winning Tea

The world of tea is vast and varied, a landscape brimming with subtle nuances and complex flavors. From the verdant hills of Darjeeling to the misty slopes of Taiwan, tea cultivation has evolved into an art form, producing leaves that captivate the senses and offer a moment of tranquility in our busy lives. Among the countless varieties available, certain teas stand out, recognized for their exceptional quality, unique character, and meticulous craftsmanship. These are the award-winning teas, the crème de la crème of the tea world, celebrated by connoisseurs and experts alike.

What Defines an Award-Winning Tea?

What exactly does it mean for a tea to be considered award-winning? It’s not simply about subjective preference; rather, it’s a culmination of several factors that contribute to a tea’s overall excellence. These factors are carefully evaluated by experienced tea judges in various competitions and tasting panels around the globe.

Quality of the Leaf

The foundation of any exceptional tea lies in the quality of the leaf itself. This encompasses several aspects, starting with the cultivar, or variety of tea plant, used. Certain cultivars are known for producing leaves with superior flavor profiles and aromas. The terroir, or environmental conditions in which the tea is grown, also plays a crucial role. Factors like altitude, climate, soil composition, and rainfall all influence the development of the leaf’s unique characteristics. Furthermore, the harvesting techniques employed are paramount. Plucking only the finest buds and young leaves, often referred to as “two leaves and a bud,” ensures a higher concentration of desirable compounds and a more delicate flavor.

Processing Techniques

Once the leaves are harvested, the processing methods used to transform them into finished tea have a profound impact on their final character. Different types of tea, such as green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and white tea, undergo distinct processing steps that involve varying degrees of oxidation, rolling, shaping, and drying. Each step requires precision and expertise to unlock the tea’s full potential. Award-winning teas often showcase innovative or traditional processing techniques that enhance the leaf’s inherent qualities and create a truly remarkable flavor profile. The skill and artistry of the tea maker are clearly evident in the finished product.

Flavor and Aroma

Ultimately, the most important criteria for judging a tea is its flavor and aroma. Award-winning teas exhibit a complex and well-balanced flavor profile, with a harmonious interplay of sweetness, bitterness, astringency, and umami. The aroma is equally important, offering a captivating bouquet of floral, fruity, earthy, or spicy notes. The tea should have a lingering finish, leaving a pleasant sensation on the palate. Judges look for teas that are both flavorful and nuanced, offering a multi-sensory experience that is both satisfying and memorable. A tea that wins awards should offer a unique and distinct experience that sets it apart from the rest.

Appearance

While flavor and aroma are paramount, the appearance of the tea leaves and the brewed liquor also contribute to the overall evaluation. The leaves should be visually appealing, with a uniform color and shape that reflects the quality of the raw material and the skill of the processing. The brewed liquor should be clear and bright, with a color that is appropriate for the type of tea. The appearance can often provide clues about the tea’s quality and processing. For example, a green tea with a vibrant green color and a clear, bright liquor is generally considered to be of higher quality than one that is dull or cloudy.

Notable Tea Awards and Competitions

Several prestigious tea awards and competitions exist around the world, each with its own set of criteria and judging panels. These events provide a platform for tea producers to showcase their finest creations and receive recognition for their efforts.

World Tea Championship

The World Tea Championship is a highly respected competition that evaluates teas from around the globe. The competition features multiple categories, including black tea, green tea, oolong tea, white tea, herbal infusions, and more. A panel of experienced tea judges assesses the teas based on their aroma, flavor, appearance, and overall quality. Winning a World Tea Championship award is a significant achievement and a testament to the tea’s exceptional quality.

North American Tea Championship

The North American Tea Championship is another prominent competition that focuses on teas available in the North American market. The competition is open to tea producers, importers, and distributors, and it features a wide range of categories. The judging process is rigorous and impartial, ensuring that only the highest quality teas are recognized.

AVPA Teas of the World Competition (France)

The AVPA (Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products) Teas of the World Competition, held in France, is a unique event that focuses on artisanal and specialty teas. The competition aims to promote and recognize teas that are produced with exceptional care and attention to detail. The judging panel consists of tea experts, chefs, and sommeliers, who evaluate the teas based on their flavor, aroma, and overall quality.

Great Taste Awards (UK)

While not exclusively focused on tea, the Great Taste Awards, organized by the Guild of Fine Food in the UK, is a highly regarded food and beverage competition that includes a tea category. The awards are known for their rigorous judging process, which involves blind tastings by a panel of experienced food and drink experts. Winning a Great Taste Award is a significant endorsement of a tea’s quality and flavor.

Examples of Award Winning Teas

Numerous teas have earned accolades in various competitions, representing a diverse range of styles and origins. Here are a few examples of award-winning teas that have garnered recognition for their exceptional quality:

Gyokuro (Japan)

Gyokuro, meaning “jade dew,” is a shaded green tea from Japan known for its rich, umami flavor and vibrant green color. The tea plants are shaded for several weeks before harvest, which increases the chlorophyll content in the leaves and reduces bitterness. Award-winning Gyokuro teas are prized for their intense sweetness, smooth texture, and lingering aftertaste. The shading process and careful processing contribute to the tea’s unique and highly sought-after characteristics. The aroma is often described as vegetal and slightly sweet, reminiscent of seaweed.

Da Hong Pao (China)

Da Hong Pao, meaning “Big Red Robe,” is a highly prized oolong tea from the Wuyi Mountains of China. It is considered one of the most expensive and sought-after teas in the world. The original Da Hong Pao tea plants are believed to be descendants of ancient tea trees, and the tea produced from these trees is incredibly rare and valuable. Award-winning Da Hong Pao teas are known for their complex flavor profile, which includes notes of roasted nuts, caramel, and orchids. The tea has a long, lingering finish and a smooth, velvety texture. The roasting process, which is carefully controlled, contributes to the tea’s distinctive character.

Silver Needle (China)

Silver Needle, also known as Bai Hao Yin Zhen, is a white tea from China made from the unopened buds of the tea plant. The buds are covered in silvery-white hairs, which give the tea its name. Award-winning Silver Needle teas are prized for their delicate sweetness, floral aroma, and smooth, silky texture. The tea is minimally processed, allowing the natural flavors and aromas of the buds to shine through. The liquor is pale yellow and incredibly refreshing. The aroma is often described as honeysuckle or melon.

Darjeeling First Flush (India)

Darjeeling First Flush teas are harvested in the spring, after the first rainfall of the year. These teas are known for their light, floral aroma and delicate flavor. Award-winning Darjeeling First Flush teas are prized for their bright, uplifting character and their ability to capture the essence of the Darjeeling terroir. The tea is often described as having notes of muscatel, green apple, and wildflowers. The delicate processing and the unique climate of the Darjeeling region contribute to the tea’s distinctive qualities.

Ali Shan Oolong (Taiwan)

Ali Shan Oolong is a high-mountain oolong tea from Taiwan, known for its creamy texture, floral aroma, and sweet, lingering finish. The tea plants are grown at high altitudes, which contributes to the tea’s unique flavor profile. Award-winning Ali Shan Oolong teas are prized for their complexity and balance, with notes of orchid, butter, and honey. The rolling and oxidation process are carefully controlled to create a tea that is both flavorful and aromatic.

The Importance of Terroir in Award Winning Teas

The concept of terroir, borrowed from the wine world, is incredibly important when discussing award-winning teas. Terroir encompasses all the environmental factors that influence the growth and development of the tea plant, including the climate, soil, altitude, rainfall, and even the surrounding vegetation. These factors work together to create a unique and distinct flavor profile in the tea leaves. Award-winning teas are often closely tied to specific terroirs, where the combination of environmental factors is perfectly suited for producing exceptional tea.

Altitude

Altitude is a particularly important factor in tea cultivation. Teas grown at higher altitudes tend to have more complex and nuanced flavors. This is because the cooler temperatures and increased sunlight at higher altitudes slow down the growth of the tea plant, allowing it to develop more complex compounds. High-mountain teas, such as Ali Shan Oolong from Taiwan and Darjeeling teas from India, are often prized for their exceptional quality.

Soil Composition

The soil composition also plays a significant role in the flavor of tea. Different soil types contain different minerals and nutrients, which can influence the growth and development of the tea plant. For example, teas grown in volcanic soil may have a distinct mineral character. The soil’s drainage and pH level also contribute to the tea’s characteristics.

Climate and Rainfall

The climate and rainfall patterns also have a profound impact on tea cultivation. Tea plants thrive in humid climates with consistent rainfall. The amount of rainfall and the timing of the rainfall can influence the size and quality of the tea leaves. Regions with distinct seasons, such as Darjeeling, produce teas with different characteristics depending on the season in which they are harvested.

Brewing Techniques for Award Winning Teas

Even the most exceptional tea can be ruined by improper brewing. To fully appreciate the nuances of an award-winning tea, it’s essential to use the correct brewing techniques. The water temperature, brewing time, and tea-to-water ratio all play a crucial role in extracting the optimal flavor from the leaves.

Water Temperature

Water temperature is one of the most important factors in brewing tea. Different types of tea require different water temperatures. Green teas and white teas are generally brewed at lower temperatures (around 170-185°F or 77-85°C) to prevent bitterness. Oolong teas and black teas can be brewed at higher temperatures (around 195-212°F or 90-100°C). Using water that is too hot can scorch the leaves and result in a bitter or astringent flavor. A thermometer is highly recommended for accurate temperature control. Many electric kettles come with temperature settings for different types of tea.

Brewing Time

Brewing time is another critical factor. Over-brewing can result in a bitter and unpleasant flavor, while under-brewing can result in a weak and watery tea. The ideal brewing time depends on the type of tea and the desired strength. Green teas and white teas are typically brewed for shorter periods (1-3 minutes), while oolong teas and black teas can be brewed for longer periods (3-5 minutes). Experimentation is key to finding the perfect brewing time for your individual preferences.

Tea-to-Water Ratio

The tea-to-water ratio also affects the strength and flavor of the tea. A general guideline is to use about 2-3 grams of tea per 8 ounces (240 ml) of water. However, this can be adjusted depending on the type of tea and your personal preference. Using too much tea can result in a strong and bitter brew, while using too little tea can result in a weak and watery brew. Using a kitchen scale to measure the tea leaves is recommended for consistency.

Brewing Vessels

The type of brewing vessel you use can also influence the flavor of the tea. Teapots made of clay, porcelain, or glass are all suitable for brewing tea. Clay teapots, such as Yixing teapots, are known for their ability to absorb the flavor of the tea over time, which can enhance the brewing experience. Porcelain teapots are neutral in flavor and do not affect the taste of the tea. Glass teapots allow you to observe the tea leaves as they steep, which can be a visually appealing experience.

Multiple Infusions

Many high-quality teas, particularly oolong teas and pu-erh teas, can be infused multiple times. Each infusion releases a slightly different flavor profile, providing a more complex and nuanced tasting experience. With each subsequent infusion, the brewing time should be slightly increased to extract the optimal flavor from the leaves. This allows you to appreciate the tea’s evolution and depth of flavor.

Storing Award Winning Tea

Proper storage is essential for preserving the quality and flavor of award-winning teas. Tea leaves are susceptible to oxidation, moisture, light, and strong odors, which can all degrade their quality over time. To keep your tea fresh and flavorful, it’s important to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place.

Airtight Containers

The most important factor in tea storage is to keep the leaves in an airtight container. This prevents oxygen from oxidizing the tea and moisture from seeping in. Containers made of metal, glass, or ceramic are all suitable for storing tea, as long as they have a tight-fitting lid.

Cool, Dark, and Dry Place

Tea should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. These factors can accelerate oxidation and degrade the tea’s flavor. A pantry or cabinet is a good place to store tea, as long as it is not located near a stove or other source of heat.

Avoid Strong Odors

Tea leaves can easily absorb strong odors from their surroundings. Therefore, it’s important to store tea away from spices, coffee, and other strongly scented items. This will prevent the tea from picking up unwanted flavors and aromas.

Refrigeration and Freezing

Refrigerating or freezing tea is generally not recommended, as it can introduce moisture and condensation, which can damage the leaves. However, some people choose to refrigerate green tea or white tea to prolong its freshness, but it’s important to make sure that the tea is stored in an airtight container and allowed to come to room temperature before brewing.

The Future of Award Winning Tea

The world of award-winning tea is constantly evolving. As consumers become more discerning and knowledgeable about tea, the demand for high-quality, artisanal teas is growing. Tea producers are increasingly focusing on sustainable farming practices, innovative processing techniques, and unique flavor profiles. This trend is likely to continue in the future, leading to even more exceptional and award-winning teas.

Sustainable Farming Practices

Sustainable farming practices are becoming increasingly important in the tea industry. Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and social impacts of their purchasing decisions, and they are seeking out teas that are produced in an ethical and sustainable manner. Tea producers are responding to this demand by adopting practices such as organic farming, biodynamic farming, and fair trade certification.

Innovative Processing Techniques

Tea producers are also experimenting with innovative processing techniques to create new and unique flavor profiles. This includes techniques such as cold maceration, anaerobic fermentation, and novel roasting methods. These techniques can unlock new flavors and aromas in the tea leaves, resulting in teas that are both complex and delicious.

Focus on Terroir

The concept of terroir is likely to become even more important in the future of award-winning tea. Tea producers are increasingly focusing on the unique characteristics of their specific terroirs and how these characteristics influence the flavor of their tea. This includes paying attention to the soil composition, climate, altitude, and surrounding vegetation.

Increased Consumer Knowledge

As consumers become more knowledgeable about tea, they are more likely to seek out high-quality, award-winning teas. This increased demand will drive tea producers to continue to innovate and improve their products. Tea education and tasting events are becoming increasingly popular, helping consumers to develop their palates and appreciate the nuances of different teas.

In conclusion, award-winning teas represent the pinnacle of tea craftsmanship, showcasing exceptional quality, unique character, and meticulous attention to detail. From the careful cultivation of the leaves to the precise processing techniques and the artful brewing methods, every step contributes to the creation of a truly remarkable cup of tea. Exploring the world of award-winning teas is a journey of discovery, offering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and complexity of this beloved beverage. So, embark on your own tea adventure and discover the award-winning teas that captivate your senses and transport you to a world of flavor and tranquility.