95
ali shan
based on 803 reviews
Grown in central Taiwan in a region of 18 mountains, this oolong enjoys both high elevation and a cooler climate that slows its growth. That means the leaves contain a higher concentration of sap and essential oils and these supple green leaves respond well to rolling into ball shapes that may be delicately roasted. Brew in a gaiwan (covered cup) at lower temperatures to fully reveal its delicate soft honey-like flavor with an edge of spring grassiness. A relatively new tea to the scene, only a few decades old, it is harvested twice yearly.
Oolong Tea | Moderate caffeine | Steep at 195° for 2-3 mins
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Customer Reviews (803)
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15 full leaf pyramids
$29
Lore
Formosa, meaning 'beautiful island', is what Dutch traders called Taiwan. The teas grown here, mainly north of Taipei, continue to be called as such. Tea can be harvested up to six times a year here, although the high mountain teas may be only twice a year. Oolong tea had been a very important export for the island until the 1980s, until tea growers turned their focus to the legions of oolong fans living on the island. Today, oolong tea is mainly produced for tea lovers in Taiwan, and the rarest, most prized lots are extremely difficult to find in the U.S. Tea culture is so alive and well in Taiwan, annual competitions are held amongst tea growing districts to reward the most outstanding oolongs each year. Gold medal-winning oolongs are some of the most expensive in the world.You'll Also Enjoy
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