Harvesting Osmanthus flowers for Osmanthus Green Tea

The Rare & Aromatic Delights Of Vietnam: Osmanthus Green Tea

Exploring Osmanthus Scented Green Tea: A Fragrance of Autumn -Trà Xanh Ướp Hoa Mộc

  • The Osmanthus flower, treasured for its sweet perfume and delicate golden petals, has long been nature's gift to tea lovers. Throughout history, tea masters around the world have attempted to capture the essence of these golden petals in a simple cup of tea. But have they succeeded in their quest? Let's find out by exploring the charm and delight of Vietnamese Osmanthus Green Tea.

Introduction to Osmanthus Plant & Flower

  • Osmanthus, scientifically known as Osmanthus fragrans, is an evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its fragrant blossoms. Native to Eastern Asia, this plant has long been cherished for blending nature’s gifts with culinary traditions and tea-making.
  • The star-shaped flowers emit a sweet, intoxicating aroma often compared to apricots or peaches. While their visual beauty is undeniable, it’s the enchanting fragrance that makes Osmanthus flowers widely popular for perfumes, culinary applications, and tea. Osmanthus plant has its blooming season during October to December each year. 
  • Understanding this, skilled tea artisans have created Osmanthus-scented green tea, a delightful combination for tea enthusiasts worldwide.
osmanthus blossom used for tea making

Osmanthus Flower and Osmanthus Scented Green Tea

  • Osmanthus flowers come in shades of white, pale yellow, yellow, or orange-yellow. These small, star-shaped blooms are famed for their rich and uplifting fragrance, often described as “nature’s perfume.” The flowers bloom in late summer and autumn, adding a touch of beauty and a fragrant breeze to these seasons.
Osmanthus Flower Tea

The Scenting Process

  • Osmanthus-scented green tea is created through an intricate process.
  • 💠Harvesting : Picking aromatic, fresh flowers at their peak fragrance.
  • 💠Flower Petal removal: Separate the petals from the rest of the flower, as only the petals are used for the scenting process.
  • 💠Layering and Scenting: Freshly picked flowers are layered alternately with green tea leaves in airtight containers, allowing the tea to absorb the floral essence over 24–48 hours, sometimes longer.
  • 💠 Dry flower petal separation: This step typically involves removing the previously added flower petals from the tea.
  • 💠Multiple Rounds: Repeating the scenting process with fresh flowers for a deeper, more intense flavor.(up to three times)
  • 💠Gentle Drying: Drying the scented tea leaves to preserve the absorbed floral aroma.

Brewing Osmanthus Green Tea & Flavor Profile

  • To fully appreciate the refined taste of Osmanthus green tea, it’s essential to brew it carefully. Over-steeping can overshadow the delicate floral notes and cause bitterness. Follow these steps to master the art of making Osmanthus tea.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat fresh water to 80°C (175°F).

  2. Warm your teapot and teacup by rinsing them with hot water to maintain temperature consistency.
  3. Add 0.2 Oz (5g) of tea to the teapot or infuser.
  4. Pour hot water over the tea and steep for 20 seconds. Adjust steeping time based on taste preference, but avoid over-brewing.
  5. Strain and serve.
  6. Repeat step 4 until the tea stops imparting flavor. For re-steeping, extend the steeping time by 25 seconds for the second infusion. For each subsequent steep, increase the brewing time by 5 seconds . Repeat and enjoy!
  7. Extra Recommendation:

    Once you've finished brewing the hot tea, try a cold brew. Add lukewarm water to your teapot, then place it in the fridge overnight for a refreshing cold infusion.

Flavor Profile

  • Osmanthus green tea produces a light, bright yellow infusion with a delicate, floral aroma that mingles perfectly with the vegetal notes of green tea. Its flavor is soft yet vibrant, featuring hints of sweet apricot and subtle honey-like undertones. A properly brewed cup feels like a gentle breeze of autumn, leaving you refreshed and enchanted.
osmanthus flower for tea scenting
osmanthus flower for tea scenting

Health Benefits of Osmanthus Tea

  • Osmanthus tea is not only a fragrant delight but also offers potential health benefits. While scientific studies remain limited, centuries of traditional use point to its positive effects. The tea naturally delivers all the benefits associated with green tea, while the osmanthus aroma further enhances its overall wellness profile.
  • 💠 Rich in Antioxidants: Osmanthus flowers and green tea contain polyphenols—powerful antioxidants that combat free radicals, protect cells, and promote overall well-being.
  • 💠 Supports Digestion: Osmanthus tea has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to relieve bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort. It is believed to improve digestion when consumed regularly.
  • 💠 Promotes Relaxation: The calming floral aroma, combined with the soothing properties of green tea, can help reduce stress and encourage relaxation.
  • 💠Skin Health: The antioxidants in Osmanthus tea are thought to have positive effects on skin health, potentially improving its appearance and vitality.
  • For anyone seeking a natural, soothing beverage that also nurtures the body, Osmanthus tea is a wonderful choice.

Cultural Significance of Osmanthus Tea

  • Osmanthus tea holds deep cultural roots in East Asian traditions, particularly in Vietnam and China.
  • 💠Symbolism: The Osmanthus flower symbolizes love, romance, longevity, and beauty. Its association with harmony and good fortune makes it an important element of celebrations.
  • 💠Literature and Art: In Chinese culture, Osmanthus flowers are celebrated in poetry, art, and ancient writings for their beauty and fragrance.
  • 💠Festivals: The flower plays a key role in festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival and the Double Ninth Festival, where Osmanthus tea is enjoyed as part of traditional celebrations.
  • As a tea that has been cherished for centuries, Osmanthus tea continues to embody cultural heritage, elegance, and nature’s gifts.
Osmanthus Flower

Conclusion

  • Osmanthus tea is a unique blend of fragrant Osmanthus flowers and green tea, offering a sensory experience like no other. With its sweet, apricot-like aroma, delicate floral notes, and calming properties, it is a tea that satisfies both the body and soul. Beyond its delightful taste, Osmanthus tea is valued for its potential health benefits, such as improved digestion, antioxidant properties, and stress relief.
  • So, are you ready to experience the true fragrance of nature with Osmanthus tea? Visit our online store today to explore more about this exquisite tea. Don’t forget—many other tea varieties await you, ready to bring joy and refreshment to your day!
Previous post Next post

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.