# First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea and Biluochun Green Tea
Introduction to Premium Chinese Green Teas
China’s rich tea culture has given the world some of the finest green teas, with First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) and Biluochun standing out as two of the most celebrated varieties. These teas represent the pinnacle of Chinese tea craftsmanship, each with unique characteristics that have captivated tea enthusiasts for centuries.
First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea (Longjing)
First Grade Dragon Well tea, known as Longjing in Chinese, originates from Hangzhou in Zhejiang province. This premium green tea is distinguished by its:
- Flat, sword-shaped leaves with a vibrant jade green color
- Delicate chestnut-like aroma
- Smooth, mellow flavor with a sweet aftertaste
- High concentration of amino acids that contribute to its umami taste
The “first grade” designation indicates the highest quality of Longjing tea, harvested in early spring when the young tea leaves are at their most tender. The traditional pan-firing technique gives Dragon Well its characteristic flat shape and preserves its fresh, vegetal flavors.
Biluochun Green Tea
Biluochun, meaning “Green Snail Spring,” comes from Dongting Mountain in Jiangsu province. This exquisite tea is recognized by:
- Tightly curled leaves resembling small snails
- Distinctive fruity and floral aroma
- Rich, complex flavor profile with notes of fruit and flowers
- Downy white hairs covering the young leaves
Authentic Biluochun is harvested in early spring, with the finest quality consisting of one bud and one or two tender leaves. The tea’s name reflects both its spiral shape and the spring harvest season when it’s at its best.
Comparing These Premium Green Teas
| Characteristic | First Grade Dragon Well | Biluochun |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Shape | Flat, sword-like | Tightly curled, spiral |
| Aroma | Chestnut, vegetal | Fruity, floral |
| Flavor | Mellow, sweet | Complex, layered |
| Brewing Temperature | 75-80°C (167-176°F) | 70-75°C (158-167°F) |
Brewing Recommendations
To fully appreciate these premium green teas:
- Use fresh, filtered water at the appropriate temperature
- Preheat your teaware to maintain temperature stability
- Use approximately 2-3 grams of tea per 150ml of water
- Steep for 1-2 minutes for the first infusion
- Increase steeping time slightly for subsequent infusions
Both First Grade Dragon Well and Biluochun can yield multiple delicious infusions, with each steeping revealing different nuances of their complex flavor profiles.
Health Benefits
As high-quality green teas, both varieties offer numerous health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals
- May support cardiovascular health</li