Tea usually tastes weak because too little leaf, too much water, insufficient extraction time or temperature, unsuitable water, or naturally delicate tea material is being used.
The good news is that weak tea is usually easy to troubleshoot.
Instead of immediately buying stronger tea, change one variable at a time.
Chinese green tea should be stored airtight, cool, dry, dark, and away from strong odors, with refrigeration or freezing considered for longer-term storage when the packaging and handling conditions are appropriate.
Green tea is one of the Chinese tea categories where freshness matters considerably. Unlike teas intentionally designed for aging, most green teas are purchased because of their fresh fragrance, bright flavor, and lively character.
Buy 2026 tea if you prioritize freshness and seasonal character; buy discounted 2025 tea when the price is significantly lower and the tea has been stored properly.
Vintage comparisons are especially interesting with Longjing because green tea is generally valued for freshness rather than age. A high-quality 2026 harvest can have an advantage in freshness, but a well-stored 2025 Longjing can still be an excellent purchase.
