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First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea vs. Biluochun Green Tea: A Premium Comparison

Introduction

When it comes to premium Chinese green teas, two names often stand out: First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea and Biluochun Green Tea. Both are celebrated for their unique flavors, aromas, and cultural significance. In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between these two exceptional teas to help you decide which one might suit your palate better.

Origins and History

First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea

Dragon Well Tea, or Longjing, hails from the Zhejiang province in China, particularly around the West Lake area in Hangzhou. It has a history dating back over 1,200 years and is often referred to as the “National Tea of China.” The first-grade variety represents the highest quality, hand-picked from the earliest spring buds.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun, also known as “Green Snail Spring,” originates from the Dongting Mountain region in Jiangsu province. Its name comes from the spiral shape of the leaves, resembling snail shells. With a history of around 1,000 years, Biluochun is prized for its delicate appearance and fruity aroma.

Appearance and Processing

Dragon Well Tea Characteristics

First Grade Dragon Well leaves are flat and smooth, with a vibrant jade-green color. The processing involves pan-firing the leaves in large woks, which gives the tea its distinctive chestnut-like aroma. The best quality Longjing is harvested before the Qingming Festival (early April).

Biluochun Tea Characteristics

Biluochun leaves are tightly curled into spiral shapes, covered with fine white hairs. The processing is more delicate, with careful rolling to maintain the spiral form. The tea is known for its early harvest – often the first green tea of the season.

Flavor Profile Comparison

Dragon Well Flavor

First Grade Dragon Well offers a mellow, sweet taste with nutty undertones and a lingering chestnut fragrance. The aftertaste is clean and refreshing, with a slight vegetal sweetness.

Biluochun Flavor

Biluochun presents a more floral and fruity profile, often with notes of peach or apricot. The taste is brisk yet smooth, with a buttery mouthfeel and a sweet, lingering finish.

Brewing Methods

Dragon Well Brewing

Use water at about 80°C (176°F) and steep for 2-3 minutes. The flat leaves will gracefully sink and rise during brewing, creating a beautiful visual display.

Biluochun Brewing

Biluochun requires slightly cooler water (75-80°C or 167-176°F) and shorter steeping (1-2 minutes) to prevent bitterness. The spiral leaves unfurl dramatically in the cup.

Health Benefits

Both teas offer similar health benefits typical of high-quality green teas:

• Rich in antioxidants (especially catechins)
• May boost metabolism
• Contains L-theanine for calm alertness
• Supports cardiovascular health