Table of Contents
Definition
Competition Grade Tea (Noun):
- A category of tea that refers to the highest quality tea leaves that are carefully selected, processed, and packaged specifically to be evaluated or showcased in professional tea competitions, exhibitions, or tastings.
Example Sentences
- “After much deliberation, the judges at the international tea tasting competition unanimously agreed that the competition grade tea from a small farm in Yunnan was this year’s champion.”
- “The annual tea festival showcased several varieties of competition grade tea, allowing visitors to taste and purchase some of the finest teas available.”
- “The meticulous processing and strict selection criteria ensure that only the best leaves are used to produce competition grade tea, resulting in a truly exquisite drinking experience.”
Notes
- These teas often exemplify the pinnacle of a specific tea variety, region, or processing style, and are recognized for their outstanding aroma, flavor, color, and overall presentation.
- They are usually more expensive than ordinary teas due to their superior quality, limited quantity, and the intricate labor and expertise involved in their production.
Characteristics of Competition Grade Tea
The criteria for competition grade tea differ from one event to another, as well as from one tea category to another. However, there are some general characteristics that distinguish competition grade tea from its regular counterparts.
- Leaf appearance: Competition grade teas exhibit a uniform appearance in terms of leaf size, shape, and color. The leaves should be clean, without any visible damage or signs of pests.
- Aroma: The aroma of competition grade tea is usually more pronounced and complex than that of ordinary tea. Depending on the tea type, it may exhibit floral, fruity, or roasted notes, among others.
- Taste: The flavor profile of competition grade tea is typically well-rounded and rich, with a balance of sweetness, astringency, and bitterness. Some teas may also have a unique, lingering aftertaste.
- Infusion color: The color of the tea liquor should be clear and vibrant, showcasing the true hue of the tea type. For example, green tea might display a bright, yellow-green color, while black tea might possess a deep, reddish-brown hue.
Judging and Evaluating Competition Grade Tea
Tea competitions employ a panel of expert judges to evaluate and score the teas based on various criteria, such as aroma, taste, and appearance. The judges undergo extensive training and follow a standardized procedure to ensure consistency and fairness in their assessments. The teas are usually blind-tasted, with the judges not knowing the identity of the tea or the producer. The scores are then tallied, and the teas with the highest scores are awarded gold, silver, or bronze medals, depending on the competition’s ranking system.