Learning Column

What is Oolong Tea?

Oo- and -long are two words transliterated from Chinese characters which stand for “black” and “dragon.” Besides it’s inherit meaning the two words describe the shape of the oolong leaves in their novel state. An oolong takes on many forms from long curls such as our Wuyi Oolong to tightly coiled forms like our Iron Goddess of Mercy. Major production areas include Anxi and Fujian in South Eastern China and mountainous regions in Taiwan. Tea farms in India and Sri Lanka are also experimenting with oolong production.

The art in crafting an oolong is the partial oxidization process that is controlled by massaging or basket tossing the leaves, withering time, climate, and the heating method chosen from the Artisan crafting the tea. Heating methods include masterfully hand roasting the tea leaves in multiple steps which generally take place through the night. Oolongs are often processed over charcoal or wood which gives an authentic taste result to the various finishing styles.

A popular choice by tea connoisseurs for their complete spectrum in taste and versatility for multiple infusions, Oolongs boast many of the benefits found in both green and black teas. Some oolongs such as our Bao Zhong are so lightly oxidized that they offer the clarity, brightness, and fragrance similar to a high quality green tea while other robust oolongs such as our 99% Roasted Oolong have been a long time answer to those who are looking for full bodied flavor alternatives to coffee.