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Bai Jiguan tea facts for kids

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Bai ji guan
Bai Jiguan.jpg
Type: Oolong

Other names: White cockscomb, white rooster, 白鸡冠
Origin: Mount Wuyi, Fujian Province, China

Quick description: Light Wuyi tea

China-Fujian
Bai Jiguan tea is grown in Fujian province, China

Bai Ji Guan, also known as Bai Jiguan, is a special kind of oolong tea from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian, China. Its name means 'white cockscomb' or 'white rooster'. This tea is known for being very light and is one of the famous "Si Da Ming Cong" teas. These are four of the most well-known and highly prized teas from the Wuyi region.

The Legend of Bai Ji Guan Tea

Have you ever wondered how this tea got its unique name? A long time ago, a brave rooster saved its baby from a dangerous eagle. The rooster was so courageous that a monk was deeply moved by its actions. To honor the rooster, the monk buried it. From that very spot, a special tea bush grew. People believe this bush was the first Bai Ji Guan tea plant, named after the brave 'white rooster'.

What Makes Bai Ji Guan Tea Special?

Bai Ji Guan tea is quite different from other teas grown in the Wuyi Mountains.

Unique Leaf Color

Most Wuyi teas have dark green or brown leaves. But Bai Ji Guan tea leaves are a bright yellowish to light green color. You can easily spot a field of these tea bushes because of their lighter shade.

Bai ji guan
A field of bai ji guan bushes with the light-green leaves characteristic of this tea.

A Different Flavor

Wuyi oolong teas often taste quite similar to each other. However, Bai Ji Guan tea has a flavor that stands out. It's known for being very light.

How It's Made

Like most oolong teas from Wuyi, Bai Ji Guan tea is "oxidized." This means the tea leaves are allowed to react with air after they are picked. This process changes their color and flavor. Bai Ji Guan tea is on the lower side of oxidation for a Wuyi tea, usually around 60-80% oxidized. This lower oxidation helps give it its lighter color and taste.

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