Vietnamese Tea 101: A Beginner's Guide to Vietnamese Tea & Tea Pronunciation
Vietnamese Tea 101: A Beginner's Guide to Vietnamese Tea & Tea Pronunciation
Tea is more than just a drink in Vietnam; it is a significant part of daily life, culture, and tradition. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene tea plantations of Da Lat, tea is enjoyed in various forms and flavors. At Tea J Tea, we share the dream of bringing quality and flavorful Vietnamese teas into the world, and this guide is to enhance your knowledge of this extraordinary tea segment. As of today, we may have traveled to many tea origins and destinations, but our tea story began right there in Vietnam.
This beginner's guide will take you through the fascinating world of Vietnamese tea, uncovering the types of true teas produced in this region, how to pronounce those tea terms, along with popular varieties and herbal teas within this region.
Vietnam Teas Varietals from the Camellia Sinensis
White Tea (Bạch Trà) /Ba·utt Cha/
Vietnamese white tea is a unique and exquisite product, rooted deeply in the region's rich tea culture. The tea is sourced from ancient wild tea trees, many of which are over 300 years old and thrive at altitudes exceeding 1,000 meters. The Bạch Trà tea is hand-harvested, focusing on the youngest buds and a single leaf, ensuring a high level of purity and quality. Tea regions such as Hà Giang and other northern provinces are popular for producing some highly prized white teas, especially due to the distinctive quality of the tea. Buy now!
Green Tea (Lục trà or Trà Xanh) /Lu·ook cha or cha san/
Green tea, known locally as Trà Xanh, is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. It is one of the oldest tea varieties in Vietnam, with a history that dates back centuries. Green tea is often consumed daily and is considered a symbol of hospitality and warmth.
The northern regions of Vietnam, such as Thai Nguyen and Yen Bai, are famous for their high-quality green tea. The cool climate and fertile soil in these areas provide ideal conditions for growing tea leaves that are rich in flavor and aroma. The teas from Thai Nguyen in particular have been used to serve the Vietnamese Emperors during the ancient times. Today, it is often used as gifts during the new year and still consumed regularly by the local Vietnamese people, especially amongst the elder generation.
Some popular Vietnamese green tea varieties include Thái Nguyên Green tea, Vietnamese Sencha, Vietnamese Roasted Green Tea- Hojicha,
Oolong Tea (Trà Ô Long) /Cha Ô·long/ (Pronounced as the letter O as in the Alphabet song)
Oolong tea, also known as Wulong in Chinese, is a semi-oxidized tea that falls between green and black tea in terms of oxidation, typically ranging from 15% to 85%. The flavor profile of Oolong tea often features floral and honey notes, but the exact taste can vary widely depending on the level of oxidation and the skill of the tea master. Vietnamese Oolong is cultivated in regions like the Central Highlands, where the high altitude and favorable climate contribute to its unique flavor profile. There are also some tea masters in Northern Vietnam that create beautiful and tasty Oolongs from the forest tea trees.
Tea J Tea’s Oriental Beauty Oolong tea is a distinctive Oolong variety known for its unique and refined flavor profile. This tea is particularly celebrated for its fruity notes, which harmonize beautifully with a natural honey-like sweetness. The combination of these flavors creates a rich and aromatic experience that sets it apart from other Oolong teas.
Black Tea (Hồng Trà or Trà Đen) /Hong Cha or Cha dan/
Black tea, or Trà Đen, is another popular tea variety in Vietnam. Unlike green tea, black tea is fully oxidized, giving it a darker color and a stronger flavor. Black tea has been enjoyed in Vietnam for centuries and is often associated with special occasions and ceremonies. Classic black teas such as Sun-Kissed Black tea are popular types to explore.
Pu erh Tea (Trà Phổ Nhĩ) /Cha Ph·Ô Nuh·ii/
Pu-erh tea is typically available in two forms: Sheng (raw) (Trà Phổ Nhĩ Sống and Shou (ripe) (Trà Phổ Nhĩ Chín). Sheng Pu-erh is naturally fermented over time, while Shou Pu-erh undergoes an accelerated fermentation process to mimic the aging of raw Pu-erh. This tea is traditionally pressed into cakes, bricks, or other shapes, and its value often increases as it ages.
Vietnamese Pu-erh tea from Vietnam is produced using the tea primarily grown in the northern mountainous regions of Vietnam, particularly in the provinces of Hà Giang, Lào Cai, Yên Bái, Sơn La, and Điện Biên. The climate and geography of these regions closely resemble those of Yunnan, China, where Pu-erh tea originated. These ancient tea trees are essential for producing high-quality Pu-erh tea because of the high-quality raw tea leaves that go into the product. Each mountainous region has a slightly different vegetation that contributes to the flavor of the tea.
Popular Vietnamese Tea Varieties
Wild White Tea Buds (Trà Búp Măng or Búp Trà Rừng) /Cha boop man·gu or boop cha R·uh·gu/
Vietnamese White Tea Buds, also known as Búp Măng, Wild Bud Tea, or Ya Bao/Ya Bai (Chinese), are a unique and cherished variety of tea. Harvested from large tea trees during the late winter and early spring months, these early-season buds are special because they become new offshoot branches on the tea tree plant. These buds, well-protected with a harder casing to withstand the cold and deter animals, are carefully picked to ensure the continued vitality of the trees. The harvesting process, which takes place between December and March, is followed by sun-drying, sorting, and packing. The resulting tea offers a distinctive flavor profile, characterized by floral notes, hints of stone fruit, and a sweet, citrusy finish, all combined with a full-bodied and smooth texture. Try Now!
Lotus Tea (Trà Sen) /Cha S-eng/
Lotus tea, or Trà Sen, is a fragrant and delicate tea made by infusing green tea leaves with the scent of lotus flowers. One traditional method of scenting the teas involves placing green tea leaves inside a lotus flower overnight, allowing the leaves to absorb the flower's fragrance.
Another method that is much more labor intensive follows the steps below:
Jasmine Tea (Trà Lài) / Cha L·ai/
Jasmine tea, or Trà Lài, is a delightful tea made by blending tea leaves with jasmine flowers. The result is a fragrant and flavorful tea that is both soothing and refreshing. In Vietnam we’ve discovered white Jasmine teas, green Jasmine teas and black Jasmine teas.
Jasmine tea is rich in antioxidants and has several health benefits, including improving heart health, boosting the immune system, and aiding in weight loss. The calming aroma of jasmine is also believed to help reduce stress and anxiety. Try Now!
Pomelo Green Tea (Tra bưởi) /Cha Boo·oui/
Vietnamese Pomelo Green Tea embodies the essence of Vietnam's rich agricultural traditions, blending the vibrant zest of wild pomelo flowers with the depth of green tea harvested from ancient trees. These ancient tea trees, rooted in the lofty mountains of the Ha Giang region, produce a tea that is both robust and deeply connected to the land. The tea is infused multiple times with pomelo flowers, sourced from the tea maker’s gardens and a tranquil mountain temple, creating a harmonious and aromatic brew. Each sip offers a sensory journey, capturing the spirit of Vietnam in every cup. (Try Now!)
Special Herbal Teas in Vietnam
Artichoke Tea (Trà Atiso) /Cha A·tis·so/
Artichoke tea, or Trà Atiso, is a popular herbal tea in Vietnam, known for its unique flavor and numerous health benefits. Made from the leaves, roots, and stems of the artichoke plant, this tea has a slightly sweet and earthy taste.
Artichoke tea is often consumed for its liver-cleansing properties. It is believed to aid in digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and promote liver health. The tea is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals.
Ginger Tea (Trà Gừng) /Cha Ga·ung/
Ginger tea, or Trà Gừng, is a warming and spicy herbal tea commonly consumed in Vietnam, especially during the colder months. It is made by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water, and it is often sweetened with honey.
Ginger tea is well-known for its medicinal properties. It can help in relieving nausea, reducing inflammation, and improving digestion. Additionally, ginger tea has immune-boosting properties and can help fight off colds and flu.
Here are some of the most delicious Ginger tea fusions we offer at Tea J Tea,
Chrysanthemum Tea (Trà Cúc) / Cha Kuuk/
Chrysanthemum tea, or Trà Cúc, is a light and refreshing herbal tea made from dried chrysanthemum flowers. It is often enjoyed as a cooling beverage, especially during the hot summer months.Chrysanthemum tea is known for its cooling properties and is often consumed to reduce heatiness in the body. It is also believed to help in relieving headaches, reducing inflammation, and improving vision.
Pandan Tea (Trà Lá Dứa) / Cha la Yuh·a/
Pandan tea, or Trà Lá Dứa, is a unique herbal tea made from the leaves of the pandan plant. It has a distinctive aroma that is often described as sweet and grassy.
Pandan tea is believed to have several health benefits, including improving digestion, reducing blood pressure, and relieving pain. The tea is also rich in antioxidants and can help in detoxifying the body.
The Art of Brewing Vietnamese Tea
Traditional Brewing Methods
Traditional Vietnamese tea brewing involves using a large teapot. The tea leaves are steeped in hot water for a few minutes or can be up to hours, allowing the flavors to fully develop. The older generation prefers very bitter teas, but as Vietnam adapts to the tastes of younger generations and international brewing methods, it has adjusted its styles to match each type of tea with its specific brewing method, bringing out the best flavors and aromas. The traditional approach is often referred to as 'Grandpa style,' reflecting the old generation's brewing techniques.
Modern Brewing Techniques
Modern brewing techniques for Vietnamese tea include using tea infusers, tea bags, and electric kettles. In some specialty Vietnamese tea shops, creative brewing styles such as using coffee filters have also been observed. These methods are convenient and easy to use, making it accessible for tea lovers to enjoy Vietnamese tea at home.
Conclusion
Vietnamese tea is a rich and diverse world waiting to be explored. From pure teas such as green and pu erhs to aromatic teas like lotus and jasmine or herbal ginger and artichoke teas, each variety offers a unique taste and a plethora of health benefits. Whether you are a tea enthusiast or a curious beginner, Vietnamese tea has something to offer everyone. So, brew yourself a cup, sit back, and enjoy the delightful journey through the flavors and traditions of Vietnamese tea.
FAQs
What is the most popular tea in Vietnam?
Green tea (Trà Xanh) is the most popular tea in Vietnam domestically and is widely consumed for its refreshing flavor and numerous health benefits.
How does TeaJTea prepare traditional Vietnamese tea?
Traditional Vietnamese tea is prepared by using fresh tea leaves, steeped in warm water at the right temperature, and served in small cups. The brewing process varies depending on the type of tea. Vietnamese green teas tend to be delicate and should be brewed at 5-10 degrees lower than the universal brewing guideline. These teas can be over-brewed very easily and have a very bitter taste. At TeaJTea, we brew the teas at a lower temperature for a shorter period of time. Green teas are brewed at 175 for 20 seconds max to bring out the best flavor profile.
What is Grandpa style tea brewing?
Grandpa style is a traditional, informal method of brewing tea where loose tea leaves are placed directly in a cup or pot of hot water without any specific measurements or timing. The leaves are allowed to steep continuously, and the drinker enjoys the tea over time as the flavor becomes stronger and more intense. This method is also used when there are no other tea ware available.
TeaJTea Teaware products : Explore!
Are there any special tea ceremonies in Vietnam?
Nothing similar to the Japanese or Chinese where the tea ceremony is the main event. The Vietnamese people only celebrate tea ceremonies during special occasions in Vietnam, for example, festivals or weddings. These teas are often presented as a means to honor guests and offer hospitality.
Can you buy Vietnamese tea online?
Yes, Vietnamese tea can be purchased online from various retailers and specialty tea shops. There isn’t a grading on what the quality of tea you’ll be getting.
The Vietnamese tea shops that we recommend for higher quality Vietnamese teas are below:
- Explore the exclusive Vietnamese tea collection @ Tea J Tea
- Anna Ye tea- https://annayetea.com/
- Viet Sun tea- https://www.vietsuntea.com/
What makes Vietnamese tea unique?
Vietnam is geographically one of the best places to find ancient tea trees, alongside China and India. Sharing a border with China's Yunnan region—renowned for its thousand-year-old tea trees—Vietnam benefits from similar ideal growing conditions. The proximity to these ancient tea-growing areas enhances the quality of Vietnamese tea leaves. Additionally, the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, combined with the deep cultural significance of tea in Vietnam, makes Vietnamese tea truly unique
These are natural ecosystems, usually mountainous tea forests where ancient tea trees thrive. These trees are harvested in some of the best places for natural tea cultivation, untouched by artificial inputs, relying solely on the nutrients provided by the forest. Some of these areas remain unexplored, allowing you to venture directly into forests of tea trees. The flavors produced are truly unique and rare, thanks to the pristine, untouched growing conditions. The deep forest teas a much harder to come across because tea harvesters
