# First Grade Dragon Well Green Tea vs. Biluochun Green Tea
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, distinctive flavors, and loyal followings among tea connoisseurs worldwide. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two exceptional green teas.
## Origins and History
### Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea
First Grade Dragon Well Tea originates from Hangzhou’s West Lake region in Zhejiang province, where it has been cultivated for over 1,200 years. This tea gained imperial favor during the Qing Dynasty and remains one of China’s most famous teas today.
### Biluochun Green Tea
Biluochun, meaning “Green Snail Spring,” comes from Dongting Mountain in Jiangsu province. Its name reflects the tea’s spiral shape resembling snail shells and its traditional spring harvest. This tea has a slightly shorter history, dating back about 1,000 years.
## Appearance and Processing
The visual differences between these teas are immediately apparent:
First Grade Dragon Well Tea features flat, sword-shaped leaves with a smooth, even appearance and vibrant jade green color. The processing involves careful pan-firing to achieve its characteristic flat shape.
Biluochun presents as tightly rolled spiral-shaped leaves covered with fine white hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The processing includes gentle rolling to create its distinctive snail-like shape.
## Flavor Profiles
### Dragon Well Characteristics
First Grade Dragon Well offers a mellow, chestnut-like flavor with sweet undertones and a lingering aftertaste. The liquor is clear and bright with a pale yellow-green hue. High-quality Dragon Well has a distinctive flat, broad leaf that stands upright when brewed.
### Biluochun Characteristics
Biluochun delivers a more floral and fruity taste, often with notes of peach blossom and a slightly stronger aroma. The tea liquor tends to be slightly darker with a more robust flavor profile. The tiny spiral leaves unfurl beautifully during brewing.
## Brewing Methods
Both teas require careful brewing to fully appreciate their qualities:
- Use water at 75-80°C (167-176°F) to avoid scorching the delicate leaves
- Steep for 1-2 minutes for the first infusion
- Use glass or porcelain vessels to appreciate the tea leaves’ dance
- High leaf-to-water ratio (about 3g per 150ml)
Dragon Well benefits from slightly cooler water (75°C) while Biluochun can handle up to 80°C to fully release its aromatic compounds.
## Health Benefits
As premium green teas, both varieties offer numerous health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants like catechins and EGCG
- May support cardiovascular health
- Contains L-theanine for calm alertness
- Low in caffeine compared to black teas or coffee
Some studies suggest Dragon Well may have slightly higher antioxidant levels due to its processing method, while Biluochun’s younger leaves may contain more amino acids.
## Choosing Between Them
Your preference between First Grade Dragon Well and Biluochun will depend on your taste preferences:
Choose Dragon Well if you prefer a smoother, nuttier flavor with elegant simplicity. Opt for Biluochun if you enjoy more pronounced floral aromas and a slightly bolder taste experience.
Both teas represent the pinnacle of Chinese green tea craftsmanship and make excellent choices for those seeking premium quality leaves. Many tea enthusiasts find value in keeping both varieties in their collection to enjoy their distinct characteristics