Pu-Erh tea

About Pu-Erh tea

Pu-Erh tea, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is a fermented black tea that hails from China's Yunnan province. Also known as sheng Pu-Erh, this tea undergoes a unique ripening process lasting at least five years, during which the tea leaves are pressed into various shapes, such as cakes, with a distinctive dark red colour.

The production process of Pu-Erh tea

Pu-Erh's production process is unique in the tea world, combining traditional and modern methods side by side. The leaves are oxidised and fermented, giving the tea an earthy flavour with hints of nuts. A new ripening method, designed to make the product available sooner, has reduced the ripening time to just a few months.

Even though this new ripening process is artificially sped up, it keeps the health benefits of Pu-Erh tea intact. The tea contains high levels of antioxidants, which is helpful in combating free radicals in the body. Moreover, thanks to its natural fermentation, Pu-Erh tea boasts many health benefits, making it a popular choice for a healthy drink.

Ripening of Pu-Erh

The ripening process of Pu-Erh tea has its roots in the Tang and Qing Dynasties, where tea was fermented using traditional methods. In this method, tea leaves were carefully picked and then exposed to bacteria, yeast and the natural environment. The outcome was a cup of Pu-Erh tea with a rich, spicy flavour and earthy tones.

Drinking Pu-Erh tea offers a variety of flavours depending on its ripening and production method. Its earthy flavour, mixed with spicy and nutty notes, makes it perfect to enjoy after a meal or as a means to aid weight loss.

Pu-Erh tea

Whether you prefer loose Pu-Erh tea or pressed versions, brewing a cup of Pu-Erh requires hot water and a bit of patience. Allowing the tea leaves to ripen is vital, helping the aromas to evolve and the flavour to intensify. Its health benefits, including caffeine and antioxidants, make Pu-Erh tea a valuable addition to the world of teas, with its unique flavour profile and long history in China.

The health benefits of Pu-Erh

Pu-Erh tea is renowned for several health benefits, although it's important to keep in mind that individual reactions to tea can vary. Here are some potential health benefits of Pu-Erh tea:

• Antioxidants: Pu-Erh tea is rich in antioxidants that can combat free radicals in the body. Antioxidants contribute to cell protection and may help reduce oxidative stress.
• Heart health: It's suggested that Pu-Erh tea might support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and promoting healthy blood pressure. The antioxidants in the tea may help reduce plaque build-up in blood vessels.
• Weight management: Some studies propose that Pu-Erh tea can aid in weight management and reduce fat storage in the body. It's sometimes used as a support in weight loss plans.
• Digestion: Pu-Erh tea is known for its digestive properties. It can promote digestion, reduce bloating and support overall gut health.
• Energy and concentration: Pu-Erh tea contains caffeine, albeit in smaller amounts than some other teas. This can enhance alertness, concentration and energy levels without the dramatic highs and lows sometimes associated with coffee.

While Pu-Erh tea appears to have many health benefits, it's essential to consider it as part of an overall healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Buy Pu-Erh tea at Café du Jour

At Café du Jour, you can purchase premium Pu-Erh tea, a fermented black tea noted for its health benefits and unique flavour profile. Our selection features carefully pressed Pu-Erh tea. By blending traditional methods with modern processes, the artificial ripening of Pu-Erh is sped up to just a few months, making it drinkable sooner.

The Pu-Erh tea available at Café du Jour offers a spicy and earthy flavour, characteristic of this fermented tea. Sourced from China's Yunnan province, our tea leaves are fermented with bacteria and yeast, contributing to its distinct flavour and high antioxidant content. Our Pu-Erh tea is like a fine wine: with time, the flavour becomes richer and deeper, making every cup a delight to drink.

Whether you're a fan of black tea, green tea or other teas, Café du Jour's Pu-Erh tea offers a unique experience. At Café du Jour, we invite you to explore our Pu-Erh tea selection and enjoy the rich tradition and flavour this tea has to offer.