First time brewing Dancong: from gaiwan to your own brewing record

A gaiwan, a fairness cup, and a few small cups are all it takes to start a simple tasting session. Rather than pursuing a fixed formula, it is more helpful to first establish a repeatable brewing method, then adjust based on how this tea performs.

Look at the tea first, then arrange the utensils.

Confirm the tea name and packaging instructions, and observe the integrity and aroma of the dry tea. Keep the gaiwan, fairness cup, and teacups clean, and prepare a tool that can weigh the tea leaves. On the first attempt, start with the vendor's suggestions; if there are none, brew a small amount of tea as a trial and note the actual amount used.

Adjust only one variable at a time.

The amount of tea leaves, water temperature, and steeping time all affect the liquor. If you want to compare the difference between two brews, try to keep the other conditions the same. For example, in this round adjust only the pour rhythm, and in the next round try a change in amount. This makes it easier to know where the change comes from.

After the pour, make your judgment.

Pour the liquor into the fairness cup, then divide it into small cups. Observe the liquor color, smell the aroma, and take small sips; note the aroma, strength, bitterness, astringency, and aftertaste. Wait until the liquor has cooled to a temperature suitable for drinking, and do not rush to judge from one scalding sip.

If this infusion is too strong, next time try shortening the steeping time or reducing the amount of tea leaves; if it is too weak, gradually try the opposite direction. The adjustment does not need to be large; the goal is to find a rhythm that suits this tea and also suits you.

Keep a record that you can follow next time.

• Tea name, purchase batch, and date opened.
• Gaiwan capacity, actual amount of tea used, and water used.
• The rhythm of adding water and pouring for each infusion.
• The infusion you like, and how you plan to adjust next time.

Useful brewing experience is experience that can be repeated next time.