May tea — the year's first harvest — has a delicate structure and unique aroma that calls for special brewing care.
May tea is harvested from the first spring buds in Rize, typically in May at the end of spring. Leaves picked during this period are the freshest, most aromatic, and most prized tea of the year.
May tea leaves are more delicate, lighter in color, and more floral in aroma. Brewing time is slightly shorter than standard Rize tea, and water temperature requires extra attention.
In this guide, you will learn the nuances of brewing May tea at home for the best possible cup.
A brewing method tailored to first-harvest tea.
1 teaspoon per person is sufficient — May tea extracts more intensely.
Wait 3-5 minutes to bring temperature down to 80-85°C. May tea prefers lower heat.
Follow the traditional order: water into the teapot first, then the leaves.
2-3 minutes shorter than standard Rize tea is enough.
May tea's aroma is most pronounced when freshly brewed.
Protect this special tea and brew it at its best.
Store May tea in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Try a small first brew to get acquainted with the flavor.
Drinking it without sugar reveals the aroma more clearly.
May tea also works beautifully with cold water brewing.
In Rize, May tea marks the most anticipated harvest of the year. When the first buds are picked in the tea gardens, the region comes alive with celebration. The limited quantity and short season make May tea especially valuable.
May tea's delicate structure demands extra care during brewing. Boiling water can scorch the leaves and leave a bitter taste. 80-85°C is the ideal temperature range. Fine-sieve May tea produces a clear, golden-red color.
To keep purchased May tea fresh throughout the season, store it in small packages. An opened package is best consumed within 2-3 months.
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Common questions about brewing May tea.
It is the first harvest of the year, with more delicate leaves, a more floral aroma, and a lighter color.
8-10 minutes is sufficient. Keep it 2-3 minutes shorter than standard Rize tea.
You can order directly from Rize or purchase from trusted online sellers.