Fuzhuan Tea: The Earliest Compressed Tea in China
Origins and Development: Fuzhuan tea originated in Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, with the first recorded production dating back to 1368. This tea marked the beginning of the tea-horse trade, where tea was exchanged for horses. To facilitate transportation by camel, loose tea was later compressed into brick shapes, which came to be known as “Xianyang Fuzhuan Tea.”
In 1958, due to policy changes, the Fuzhuan tea factory in Jingyang was relocated to Hunan, but many skilled workers remained in Shaanxi, allowing small-scale production to continue. Since the 21st century, various Fuzhuan tea products, including tea bags, instant Fuzhuan tea, and the popular “Little Gold Brick,” have entered the market.
Name Origin: Historically, Fuzhuan tea was made during the hottest summer days, known as “Fu” days. Additionally, the tea’s aroma was similar to that of Poria, a medicinal mushroom, which is also called “Fu Ling” in Chinese. Hence, the tea’s name came to include the character “Fu.”
Golden Flowers” in Fuzhuan Tea: Premium Grade Explained
Ingredients: Jingyang’s geography and climate are unsuitable for tea cultivation. As a result, all raw materials for Fuzhuan tea are sourced from other regions, primarily Yunnan and Hunan, where the tea leaves have already undergone initial processing into what is known as dark rough tea.
Characteristics:
- Appearance: Fuzhuan tea is typically rectangular in shape, resembling a brick, with a tightly compressed structure. The tea color is dark brown with hints of yellow and a subtle sheen.
- Tea Infusion: The brewed tea has an orange-red, clear hue that can also appear reddish-brown or orange-brown, with a bright, translucent quality.
- Aroma: Fully fermented, Fuzhuan tea has the rich, earthy fragrance of black tea, combined with a fresh, grassy scent. The tea also features a unique floral aroma when the beneficial fungi, known as “Golden Flowers” (Eurotium cristatum), are present.
- Taste: The tea offers a mellow, smooth flavor with a robust and refreshing aftertaste, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. Its richness and depth are enhanced with each infusion.
- Nutritional Benefits: The “Golden Flowers” in Fuzhuan tea are a type of beneficial microorganism containing various nutrients that contribute positively to health.
Production Areas: In addition to Jingyang, Shaanxi, Hunan is also a key production area for Fuzhuan tea, providing a substantial portion of this tea to the market.
Golden Flowers” in Fuzhuan Tea: Premium Grade Explained
Jingyang Fuzhuan Tea: A Mysterious Tea of the Silk Road
Shaanxi, Xianyang | Dark Tea | Post-Fermented | Warming
🍵 Origins and Name
Jingyang Fuzhuan Tea is produced during the summer’s peak heat, known as the “Fu” days. Its aroma and effects are reminiscent of Poria mushrooms (“Fu Ling” in Chinese). The tea is steamed, compressed into a brick shape, and hence called “Fuzhuan Tea.” Also known as “Fengzi Tea” or “Jingyang Brick,” Fuzhuan is a type of compressed dark tea in the reprocessed tea category.
🍵 Category
As one of China’s six primary tea types, Fuzhuan tea belongs to the dark tea category, with a post-fermented process and a warming nature.
💡 Health Benefits
- Supports Digestive Health: Aids digestion, relieves bloating, and eases stomach discomfort.
- Blood Pressure & Lipid Management: May help lower blood pressure and regulate blood lipids.
- Stomach Health: Known for its stomach-soothing qualities, it’s a popular choice for those needing digestive support.
💡 Brewing Method
For the best brewing experience, use a white porcelain gaiwan or a Yixing clay teapot. The ideal tea-to-water ratio is 1:20, with water at 100°C. Rinse the tea leaves and steep for 10 seconds for each infusion; this tea can be brewed over 10 times.
💡 Storage Tips
Dark teas like Fuzhuan can be stored long-term. Loose tea can be placed in kraft paper bags, bamboo baskets, or ceramic jars. Tianshan tea, brick tea, and cake tea should be stored in odorless cardboard boxes that are partially sealed to allow airflow. Store these in a study or tea room with proper ventilation. Avoid mixing naked tea leaves and packaged tea, especially across different brands, to prevent flavor contamination.
- Temperature: Keep the temperature below 25°C.
- Humidity: Relative humidity should stay below 70%.
🍵 Best for:
- Those with weak constitution or who enjoy eating meat
- Individuals with digestive issues
- People with high blood pressure or those who are overweight
🍵 Not Suitable for:
- People with malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies
- Long-term vegetarians