What is oolong tea?
Oolongs are famous for the wide range of flavours and they can be seen as by far the most naturally aromatic type of tea.
The oldest style oolongs are fermented oolong category includes most Wuyishan, Guangdong and Chaozhou tea.
The more modern Southern Fujian oolong tea is usually greener and sphere- or ball-shaped. Such tea is considered lightly fermented oolong tea or “qing cha”, 清茶, turquoise tea.
Many Taiwanese oolong types also fall into this category, such as Ali Shan, Si Ji Chun, Dong Ding. The term "light roasting", Qing Xiang, 清鲜, is also used.
Oolong tea benefits
Oolong tea is popular for several reasons. Firstly, it has a unique flavor that appeals to many people. It's not as strong as black tea, nor as delicate as green tea, but somewhere in between. Oolong tea also has a rich history and cultural significance in China and other parts of Asia, where it has been enjoyed for centuries.
In terms of health benefits, oolong tea has been associated with several potential benefits. Here are some examples:
Weight management
Oolong tea may help with weight management by increasing metabolism and fat oxidation.
Heart health
Oolong tea has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. It may help reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.
Dental health
Oolong tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Bone health
Oolong tea contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus that are important for maintaining healthy bones.
Antioxidant properties
Oolong tea contains antioxidants, such as catechins and theaflavins, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Oolong tea taste
The differences between different kinds of oolong teas lie in the oxidation level, production methods, growing conditions, and the specific cultivar used. Oolong tea can range from light, floral and fruity to bold, roasted and earthy. Different oolongs will also vary in terms of their aroma, taste, mouthfeel, and aftertaste.
These aromatic Oolongs will brighten your day and give you an amazing sensation with every sip! Smell, taste and enjoy our carefully chosen and ever-increasing collection of Oolongs.
What is the difference between different kind of oolongs?
The differences between different kinds of oolong teas lie in the oxidation level, production methods, growing conditions, and the specific cultivar used. For example, some oolongs may have a lighter, more delicate flavor while others may be bolder and more complex. It's important to note that the flavor and quality of oolong tea can also be influenced by the altitude, climate, soil, and other environmental factors of the region where it is grown.
Oolong tea is produced by withering the tea leaves, rolling and shaping them, and then partially oxidizing them before they are dried. This process results in a tea that is somewhere between the light, floral flavors of green tea and the rich, bold flavors of black tea.
What are the main types of oolong tea?
Guandong oolongs (Dancong)
Guangdong oolong, also known as Phoenix oolong, comes from the Phoenix Mountain area in Guangdong province. It has a sweet and fruity flavor, with notes of honey, orchids, and apricots.
Wyishan oolongs (Yancha)
Wuyishan oolong comes from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian province. It has a more robust, smoky flavor with notes of mineral and fruit.
South Fujian oolongs (Tie Guan Yin)
South Fujian oolong is a type of oolong tea that is grown in the southern part of Fujian province in China. This region is known for producing high-quality oolong teas, including Tie Guan Yin, also known as Iron Goddess of Mercy, which is one of the most famous oolongs in the world. South Fujian oolongs are characterized by a complex flavor profile that can include notes of orchid, honey, and roasted nuts. The tea leaves are carefully hand-processed to bring out these unique flavors and aromas.
Taiwanese oolongs
Taiwanese oolong is another type of oolong tea that is grown in Taiwan, particularly in the central mountainous regions of the island. Taiwanese oolongs are often characterized by a light, floral flavor, with hints of fruit and honey. Some of the most famous Taiwanese oolongs include Alishan, Dong Ding, and Oriental Beauty. These teas are also carefully hand-processed, with a focus on preserving the delicate flavors and aromas of the tea leaves.
The reason why these oolongs are so special is due to the unique growing conditions and production methods used to create them. South Fujian and Taiwan are both known for their ideal climates and terroir for growing high-quality tea. The mountainous terrain, ample rainfall, and fertile soil create an ideal environment for growing tea that is rich in flavor and aroma. In addition, the hand-processing techniques used to create these oolongs are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring a high level of skill and attention to detail. These factors contribute to the high quality and unique flavor profile of South Fujian and Taiwanese oolongs, making them highly sought after by tea enthusiasts around the world.
Gaba oolongs
GABA oolong tea is a type of oolong tea that has been specially processed to increase the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. The production of GABA oolong tea involves a unique process of nitrogen fixation, which stimulates the tea leaves to convert glutamic acid to GABA.
