Geng Zongqin
A Lifetime Brewed in Fuding White Tea
In the verdant embrace of Fujian's Fuding 福鼎 tea gardens, a young boy named Geng Zongqin was grown amidst the fragrant symphony of tea leaves and the rhythmic dance of skilled hands. His father, the director of the local state-owned tea factory, instilled in him a deep appreciation for the art of tea making, a legacy that would forever intertwine his destiny with the delicate world of tea.
From an early age, Geng Zongqin's senses were captivated by the mesmerizing aroma of tea that permeated the very air he breathed. His eyes, wide with curiosity and brimming with intelligence, caught the attention of the tea-making masters, guardians of this time-honored tradition. With a gentle touch, they extended an invitation that would shape the course of his life, "Child," they inquired, "would you like to learn the art of tea making?"
Without a moment's hesitation, Geng Zongqin's voice echoed with unwavering determination, "I am willing!" And so, under the tutelage of these seasoned artisans, he embarked on a journey of unwavering dedication, immersing himself in every intricate step of the tea-making process.
Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years as Geng Zongqin meticulously observed, pondered, and experimented, his passion for tea growing with each passing moment. His unwavering pursuit of perfection led him to pioneer the revolutionary technique of double-withering, a groundbreaking innovation that unlocked the unparalleled fragrance of Fuding white tea, allowing its essence to fully bloom in the embrace of water.
Geng Zongqin's reverence for tea transcended mere technique; it was a profound connection, a symphony of heart and mind. With meticulous care, he treated each tea leaf as a precious work of art, nurturing it with unwavering dedication, like a gardener tending to his prized blooms.
He embraced his identity as "Bamin Tea Maker 八闽茶夫," determined to safeguard and perpetuate the rich heritage of Fuding white tea. His expertise encompassed every aspect of the craft, from cultivation and processing to evaluation and blending, ensuring that the legacy passed down through generations would forever flourish.
With an open and inclusive spirit, Geng Zongqin welcomed eager students into his fold, imparting his knowledge and skills with unwavering generosity. He recognized that only through hands-on experience could one truly grasp the intricate nuances that shaped the diverse qualities of tea.
"It is only by immersing oneself in the tea-making process," he often remarked, "that one can comprehend the myriad factors that influence the character of tea. From the unique characteristics of the tea leaves to the vagaries of weather and the intricacies of processing techniques, each element plays a role in shaping the tea's distinctive appearance, aroma, and taste."
Geng Zongqin's story, like the exquisite Fuding white tea he so passionately crafted, has only grown richer and more captivating with the passage of time. His unwavering dedication, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and his profound respect for the art of tea-making have cemented his legacy as a true master.