One of the Classics: Jasmine
Jasmine is a genus of fragrant flowering plants in the olive family, native to tropical and subtropical regions. Known for their delicate white or yellow blossoms, jasmine flowers emit a sweet, captivating aroma that is highly prized in perfumery and tea-making. The flowers are often used to scent green tea, creating the popular jasmine tea, which is celebrated for its soothing properties and delicate floral flavor.
Where did Jasmine Come From?
Jasmine tea, a fragrant blend of green tea leaves and jasmine flowers, has a rich history dating back to the Song Dynasty in China, around the 10th century. The process of scenting tea with jasmine blossoms was perfected during the Ming Dynasty when the popularity of floral teas soared among the Chinese nobility. The delicate jasmine flowers are picked at dawn when their aroma is most potent and are then layered with tea leaves to transfer their fragrance.
This traditional method, known as "scenting," can be repeated several times to achieve the desired intensity of flavor. Today, jasmine tea remains a beloved beverage worldwide, cherished for its soothing aroma and delicate taste.
What does "Scenting" Mean?
"Scenting jasmine" refers to the traditional process of infusing tea leaves with the fragrance of jasmine flowers to create jasmine tea. This technique involves layering fresh jasmine blossoms with tea leaves, allowing the natural oils and aroma of the flowers to permeate the tea.
As the tea absorbs the scent, the jasmine flowers are removed and replaced with fresh blossoms, a process that can be repeated several times to achieve the desired intensity of flavor. This meticulous method ensures that the tea retains the delicate and soothing aroma of jasmine without overpowering the natural taste of the tea leaves.
The result is a harmonious blend that offers a sensory experience, combining the health benefits of green tea with the calming properties of jasmine. Scenting jasmine is a time-honored tradition that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship involved in producing high-quality jasmine tea.
Jasmine Pearls
Jasmine pearls are a premium variety of jasmine tea, where the finest green tea leaves are hand-rolled into small, tight balls and then scented with fresh jasmine flowers. This intricate process allows the tea to absorb the fragrant essence of jasmine, resulting in a beautifully aromatic and flavorful brew.
When steeped in hot water, the pearls gently unfurl, releasing their delicate aroma and creating a visually appealing experience. Jasmine pearls are highly prized for their exquisite taste, soothing fragrance, and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in their production.
What are the Differences Between the Two?
Jasmine Pearls
Form:
Jasmine pearls are meticulously crafted into small, compact spheres by hand.
Scenting Process:
Jasmine pearls are often scented multiple times with fresh jasmine flowers for a more intense aroma.
Flavor:
Due to the multiple scenting processes, jasmine pearls usually have a stronger and more refined jasmine flavor.
Price:
Jasmine pearls are often more expensive than regular jasmine tea due to the labor-intensive process of hand-rolling and multiple scenting.
Brewing Experience:
Jasmine pearls unfurl beautifully in hot water, offering a visually appealing brewing experience.
Jasmine Tea
Form:
Regular jasmine tea usually comes in the form of loose leaves.
Scenting Process:
Regular jasmine tea is often scented fewer times compared to jasmine pearls.
Flavor:
The delicate and subtle flavor of jasmine tea provides a light and refreshing taste experience.
Price:
Producing regular jasmine tea is generally less labor-intensive compared to jasmine pearls.
Brewing Experience:
Regular jasmine tea lacks the visually appealing effect of steeping seen in jasmine pearls.
