Production

The Production Process of Taiwan Partially Fermented TeaIntroduction of Key Manufacturing Process

Tea Harvesting

In accordance with standard procedures, tea are harvested from the tip to the fourth leaf.
The requirements and standards for tea leaf picking are determined based on the desired tea classification and flavor profile.

Sun Withering

Sun-withering promotes the evaporation of moisture from tea leaves, and initiate the fermentation process gradually.
Excessive sunlight intensity may cause scalding, while slow moisture dissipation can lead to delayed fermentation, resulting in weak aroma and inferior quality.

Indoor Withering

Indoor withering is primarily for moisture release and fermentation promotion.
In the initial phase of withering, the leaves are spread thinly to facilitate moisture dispersion, followed by progressively thickening layers to aid fermentation.
During the withering period, the texture of the tea leaves softens, leaf edges become slightly wavy, tea stems shrink, and the pungent smell diminishes.
Stirring is initiated only when a fresh aroma is emitted.

Stirring

The degree of stirring is generally adjusted based on the withering level, with light stirring recommended for tender leaves and heavier stirring for mature leaves.
Improper stirring can lead to damage in tea leaves, resulting in darkening or reddening.

Fixation

Fixation is aimed at disrupting the enzymatic activity of tea, halting fermentation, or other biochemical processes.
It causes the dispersion of moisture in tea leaves, removes the green smell, and softens the texture, facilitating subsequent rolling.
The fixation process helps stabilize the color and aroma developed during the withering.

Rolling

The pressure applied during rolling should gradually increase to avoid poor shaping.
For oolong tea, the standard degree of rolling is to tightly twist the tea leaves into strips. Insufficient rolling makes it difficult for cellular contents to be released, resulting in a light and thin flavor in the brewed tea. Excessive rolling increases bitterness, turns tea stems red, and causes unpleasant aroma.

Drying

The drying step is aimed at disrupting the enzymes remaining in the tea leaves, ensuring the complete cessation of fermentation and other biochemical reactions. This process guarantees quality and preserves the shape of the tea leaves.
There are intentional differences between drying and roasting. Roasting can alter the composition and aroma style within the tea, usually regarded as the subsequent refinement in the tea processing.