Pu-erh tea storage & maturation – How to store your tea correctly
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Pu-erh tea is one of the few teas that improve with time – provided it is stored correctly.
Learn here how temperature, humidity and microorganisms affect ripening and how to best store your Pu-erh at home.
Why storage is so important for Pu-erh
Pu-erh tea differs from almost all other teas: it continues to mature when stored correctly. Through the influence of oxygen, microorganisms, and moisture, new aromas and a deeper, more rounded structure develop.
Sheng Pu-Erh in particular benefits from long-term storage,
while Shou Pu-Erh has already "matured" through accelerated fermentation.
You can find out more about the differences in the article.
Sheng vs. Shou – two worlds of Pu-Erh .
Ideal storage conditions
- Temperature: constant between 18–25 °C
- Humidity: approx. 60–70%
- Air circulation: regular, but without drafts
- Light: Store in a dark place, away from direct sunlight.
- Scents: away from perfume, coffee, spices or wood
Make sure your tea can "breathe" – Pu-erh only develops its complexity with controlled air exchange.
Airtight glass jars or plastic boxes are not suitable .
The best materials for storage
Traditionally, Pu-erh is stored in porous materials that can regulate moisture and air.
The following have proven effective:
- Paper packaging: breathable, protects against dust
- Clay pots: ideal for long-term storage
- Bamboo or wooden crates: slightly ventilated, natural maturation
Avoid airtight plastic containers – they prevent ripening and promote mold.
How microorganisms influence ripening
During storage , natural microorganisms act on the tea leaves.
They convert polyphenols into new compounds, which makes the taste milder and deeper.
Studies such as Zhang et al. (2020, Food Chemistry) show that microbes such as Aspergillus niger and Penicillium form theabrownins during ripening – pigments that contribute to the typical earthy taste.
Leonard et al., 2021 – Fermentation transforms the phenolic profiles and bioactivity of foods (Food Research International). Confirms that fermentation releases bound phenols and can increase antioxidant activity.
which also enhances the health benefits of Pu-erh.
Read more about the effects of Pu-erh tea .
“Dry Storage” vs. “Wet Storage”
In the world of Pu-Erh wine, two storage methods are often mentioned:
-
Dry Storage:
Clean, cool, well-ventilated – results in a clear, fresh taste with a complex aroma. -
Wet Storage:
Higher humidity (over 75%), faster maturation, darker tea with an earthy character –
However, there is a higher risk of mold and musty odors.
For most households, dry storage is the safest and most flavor-stable method.
You can find more information about the climatic influences in the article.
Pu-Erh Tea Origin & Regions .
How long can Pu-erh be stored?
Pu-erh has an almost unlimited shelf life , as long as the storage conditions are correct.
Many tea connoisseurs keep Sheng teas for 10, 20 or even 30 years –
and appreciate them like aged wine.
Over time, bitter substances break down and sweet, malty notes emerge.
Shou Pu-Erh changes less drastically, but its flavor remains stable for years.
Also read how to prepare your tea optimally.
to develop the full ripening aroma.