Does Qimen black tea belong to fermented tea?

Qimen Black Tea is one of the famous black tea varieties in China, which is produced in Qimen County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province. Different from other black teas, Qimen black tea belongs to semi-fermented tea, not fermented tea.

Semi-fermented tea, also known as light fermented tea, is a kind of tea between green tea and black tea. Compared with green tea, the production process of semi-fermented tea is more complicated, and it needs to go through many processes such as spreading, rolling, fermentation, enzyme fixation and so on. Compared with black tea, semi-fermented tea is less pressed, so the soup has clearer color, rich aroma and refreshing taste. Qimen black tea is one of the representatives of this kind of tea.

The fermentation process of semi-fermented tea is slight, and its biggest feature is that the degree of fermentation of bud leaves is low, the appearance is dark green on the back and edge of leaves, and the stems are light red. It can be seen that the difference between Qimen black tea and authentic black tea lies in the level of fermentation.

Aroma characteristics of Qimen black tea The aroma characteristics of Qimen black tea can be described as "candied fruit fragrance", "apple fragrance" and "camphor tree leaf fragrance". Its aroma is one of the important characteristics of this kind of tea, and it is also sought after by fans.

First of all, the candied fragrance of Qimen black tea is one of its most representative fragrance types. This aroma comes from the function of many enzymes in Qimen black tea juice, which transform the aromatic substances in tea into complex aromatic ketones and alcohols. These substances are further strengthened in the baking process, which makes Qimen black tea have a strong candied fragrance and reflects the excellent quality of tea.

Secondly, the apple fragrance of Qimen black tea is also outstanding, especially after brewing. This aroma is released by some compounds and enzymes in the process of tea fermentation and baking. Like "candied fruit fragrance", "apple fragrance" is also one of the unique selling points of Qimen black tea, which is deeply loved by tea lovers.

Finally, Qimen black tea also has a fragrance called "Cinnamomum camphora leaf fragrance". This aroma comes from some volatile aroma substances in tea juice, which are released during high temperature baking. This aroma helps to eliminate the feeling of dry mouth and make tea smoother and more delicious.

To sum up, the aroma characteristics of Qimen black tea are diverse and unique. From candied fruit fragrance to apple fragrance to camphor tree leaf fragrance, these fragrances are related to the quality, origin and baking of tea. Therefore, in order to taste a cup of authentic Qimen black tea, we need to know more about its origin, production technology, taste and quality besides the knowledge of purchasing tea.