Yixing Teapot
Xi Shi Lu Ni

Zisha

Yixing clay (Zisha) is mainly mined in mines in Huanglongshan and Zhaozhuangshan, although the scale of mining is severely limited due to high demand. At the same time, the clay forms the basic quality characteristic of a Zisha Hu, which also influences its suitability for certain types of tea. The higher the porosity and purity of the clay, the better the teapot can round out bitterness and absorb the aromatic compounds and oils found in the teas and release them over time to subsequent infusions, thus achieving a significant increase in flavour complexity. This is why Yixing teapots are also known as "memory teapots", and are particularly suitable for use with one or at least several similar teas.

yellow/green clay (Lü ni)

Lü Ni is particularly delicate and is found in upper rock layers. Thanks to its structure, it is best suited for white, green or yellow teas, whereby care should be taken to ensure that the body of the teapot is sufficiently large to give the tea leaves enough room to unfold.

White Tea, yellow tea, green tea

Yixing teapots are particularly suitable for the classic Chinese tea ceremony (Gong Fu). As a rule of thumb, a relatively large amount of tea is infused with only a little water and poured into a so-called fairness cup (Gong Dao Bei) after only a few seconds (10-20) to obtain an even infusion. High-quality teas can be infused up to 20 times in this way, whereby the aroma unfolds and transforms over the course of the infusions.

After use, remove the tea leaves and clean with low-lime (filtered) water to avoid deposits, as these affect the ability of the clay to absorb aroma. Do not use detergent. Allow to dry with the lid open to prevent mold growth.