What We Learned from Attending the First International White Tea Conference

At the end of November 2023, Kyle was invited to represent the United States at the first International White Tea Conference in Fuding, Fujian Province.

White Tea originated in the Northern Song Dynasty. Emperor Huizong was a big fan of white tea and often touted it as his favorite. He wrote "Treatise on Tea," which included in-depth descriptions and rules for producing and judging white tea. By 1857, superior cultivars of white tea were discovered in Fuding. Fuding’s elevation, mountain soils, ample rainfall, and mild climate lend to the tea's unique flavor profile. This led to the popularization of silver needles (bai hao) and white peony-style (bai mu dan) teas by the early 20th century.

White tea is the least processed of all tea types. Because of this, they have the most concentration of antioxidants, and many laud its health properties as on par with green tea. The flavors are unique, ranging from floral, woodsy, nutty, and herbaceous. If you have never tried this type of tea before, we encourage you to take your first sip. 

Kyle did not only observe but gave a talk himself at the conference. He discussed the changing perceptions of tea drinking in the U.S. and spreading its marketability, especially regarding its healthy properties. In his words, here are the top 3 things he learned:

1. As a representative of the Tea Association of the USA and a speaker, I had the opportunity to talk with representatives from countries around the world, visit the World Heritage Sites where these teas were first developed, and further my understanding of the history of these tea types.
2. While drinking tea and talking with other international representatives, I am further convinced that the ritual of tea helps bridge geographical and cultural differences.
3. The theme of my conference talk was the importance of educating the next generation about the benefits of drinking tea. To promote tea to young people, the Chinese are effectively using pro athletes who drink tea. I encourage the Tea Association of the USA and tea companies in the U.S. to use the same marketing approach. This would encourage more young people to drink tea. Also, this could lead to more student educational exchanges between tea and non-origin tea countries and provide more opportunities to fund scientific tea research.

Celebrate Fujian white teas with these great choices:

Silver Needle Tips- This tea is prized and considered the highest quality because it is made exclusively of downy leaf buds. It's a delicate brew with notes of hay, florals, and a honeyed finish.

White Peony, Special Grade- Carefully harvested, this high-grade white tea is made up of almost equal parts leaf buds and young leaves, which give it a slightly nutty and fresh greens flavor profile in addition to floral notes

White Peony- Different from bai mu dan like our other white peony, this is a shou mei. This style has fewer leaf buds, is harvested later, and is slightly more oxidized, causing the leaves to have a darker appearance. These factors produce a more robust body and introduce woodsy and toasty notes.

Want to do a deep dive into the world of white tea? Schedule a Private Tasting with us to learn more and taste a sampling of different options!