01/05/2025
Tea Fermentation Summary
Tea fermentation (oxidation) is the process that transforms tea leaves and shapes their flavor, aroma, and color over time. As fermentation progresses, tea evolves through four main stages:
Light (0–10%) – Fresh, grassy, sweet
Moderate (10–40%) – Floral, fruity, smooth
Heavy (40–70%) – Roasted, nutty, complex
Full (80–100%) – Malty, earthy, bold