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First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea vs. Biluochun Green Tea: A Premium Comparison

When it comes to premium Chinese green teas, First Grade Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea and Biluochun Green Tea stand out as two of the most celebrated varieties. Both teas boast rich histories, unique flavors, and meticulous production processes. In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between these two exceptional teas, helping you decide which one might suit your palate best.

Origins and History

Dragon Well Tea (Longjing) originates from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, and has been cultivated for over 1,200 years. It gained imperial favor during the Qing Dynasty and remains one of China’s most famous teas. The name “Dragon Well” comes from a local well that was believed to be inhabited by a dragon.

Biluochun, meaning “Green Snail Spring,” hails from Dongting Mountain in Jiangsu Province. Its name reflects the tea’s tightly curled leaves resembling snail shells and its early spring harvest. With a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, Biluochun was officially named during the Qing Dynasty when Emperor Kangxi praised its delicate aroma.

Appearance and Processing

Dragon Well Green Tea

First Grade Dragon Well leaves are flat and smooth with a distinctive jade-green color. The traditional pan-firing technique gives the leaves their characteristic shape and enhances their nutty aroma. Only the youngest buds and leaves are hand-picked before Qingming Festival (around April 5) for the highest quality.

Biluochun Green Tea

Biluochun leaves are tightly coiled like snail shells, covered with fine white hairs. The processing involves careful withering, rolling, and drying to preserve the delicate shape. The tea is harvested even earlier than Dragon Well, often in late March, contributing to its exceptionally tender leaves.

Flavor Profile

Dragon Well Characteristics

First Grade Dragon Well offers a mellow, chestnut-like flavor with sweet undertones. The liquor is clear and bright with a lingering aftertaste. High-quality Dragon Well has a distinctive “umami” quality, especially in early spring harvests.

Biluochun Characteristics

Biluochun presents a more floral and fruity profile with notes of peach blossom and a refreshing briskness. The tea has a stronger aroma that fills the room upon brewing, earning its reputation as one of China’s most fragrant green teas.

Brewing Methods

Both teas require careful brewing to fully appreciate their qualities:

Dragon Well Brewing

Use water at 75-80°C (167-176°F) and steep for 1-2 minutes. The flat leaves will gracefully sink and rise in the glass, creating a beautiful visual display. Higher grade Dragon Well can be reinfused 2-3 times.

Biluochun Brewing

Biluochun is even more temperature-sensitive – ideal water temperature is 70-75°C (158-167°F). The tiny leaves unfurl dramatically, releasing their intense aroma. Multiple infusions are possible, with each revealing different flavor nuances.

Health Benefits

Both teas share the health benefits common to premium green teas: