Green Tea Flavor
Green tea has a light, delicate flavor that is often described as fresh, grassy, or vegetal. It is less astringent and bitter compared to black tea, and has a more subtle, natural sweetness. The flavor of green tea can vary depending on where it is grown and how it is processed, but common notes include grass, hay, seaweed, and even hints of nuttiness. Some green teas can have floral notes, such as jasmine or cherry blossom, while others have a more herbaceous or earthy taste. Japanese green teas like sencha or matcha are known for their bright, fresh flavor, while Chinese green teas like dragonwell or longjing have a nuttier, slightly sweeter taste. When brewed correctly, green tea should have a clear, light yellow-green color and a delicate, soothing aroma. The flavor of green tea is best enjoyed plain, without added sugar or milk, in order to fully appreciate its natural taste.
"Flavor Characteristics of Green Teas from Different Regions in China" (Food Science and Technology Research, 2015)
"Effect of brewing temperature on the flavor quality of green tea" (Food Chemistry, 2009)
"Flavor profiles of selected green tea cultivars grown in Kenya" (Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2013)
"Chemical composition and sensory quality of green tea infusions" (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2006)
"Green tea aroma compounds: characterization and quantification" (Flavor and Fragrance Journal, 2002)
These studies focus on the flavor characteristics of green tea and how various factors, such as growing region, brewing temperature, and cultivar, can affect the flavor. They use a variety of methods to analyze the flavor profile of green tea, including sensory analysis, chemical analysis, and instrumental techniques such as gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.