The core of storing charcoal-roasted Tieguanyin is to lock in the roasted aroma and prevent re-greening.
Core Principles
Low temperature: Keep below -5℃ (achievable with a household refrigerator's freezer compartment) to slow material transformation and prevent aroma loss or re-greening.
Sealing: Use high-seal containers and close tightly immediately after taking tea to avoid contact with air and moisture.
Odor prevention: Char-roasted tea has strong adsorption properties. Keep it away from cooking fumes, perfume, etc., and store it in a separate compartment if using a refrigerator.
Contextualized operation
Short-Term Storage (1-3 Months, Daily Consumption)
Container: Choose ceramic jars, tin cans with silicone sealing rings, or double-layer aluminum foil bags (squeeze out air after taking tea).
Environment: Store in a cool and dry place (≤25℃, humidity ≤50%), away from direct sunlight and heating sources.
Details: Use a dry tea spoon to take tea. If the tea becomes damp or the aroma fades, immediately transfer it to a refrigerator for cold storage at 0-5℃.
Long-term storage (more than 3 months)
Container: Outer layer of food-grade sealed bag (tightly tied) + inner layer of tin can/ceramic jar, or vacuum-sealed jars.
Refrigerator steps:
Place in the freezer compartment (around -10℃), away from ingredients with strong odors.
Let it return to room temperature 1-2 hours before taking tea (to prevent condensation).
Take tea quickly, seal immediately and put back. Avoid repeated thawing.
Taboo: Do not use glass jars (poor sealing) or wooden containers (release odors and absorb moisture).
Pitfall Avoidance Key Points
Avoid long-term storage at room temperature: Storing at room temperature for more than 3 months is prone to aroma loss and re-greening, and it may deteriorate within 1 month during the rainy season.
Avoid repeated thawing: It is recommended to divide into small sealed portions according to 10-15 days' usage.
Do not neglect humidity: Place unscented desiccants in the container and replace them regularly.