What happens
Leaves may be spread indoors, exposed briefly to sunlight or moved between environments. Makers manage layer depth, airflow, temperature, humidity and duration; the correct endpoint depends on tea type and weather.
What it changes in the cup
Well-managed withering can soften raw green odor and build clear flowers, ripe fruit or honey. Too little leaves harsh greenness; too much may create dull, stale or overly dried character.
How to observe it
Compare fresh and withered leaf: the latter is softer, less brittle and has a changed aroma. In finished tea, judge integration rather than assuming strong sweetness proves long withering.
Practical guidance
Compare fresh and withered leaf: the latter is softer, less brittle and has a changed aroma. In finished tea, judge integration rather than assuming strong sweetness proves long withering.
Identification and caution
Withering is not the same as oxidation, although the two can overlap. It describes moisture loss and related change, while oxidation depends on enzymes, oxygen and cell damage.