Shui Xian tea, a type of oolong, is grown and processed in the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, China. Since it is partially oxidized, it is not quite as strong as black tea but not as light as green tea. The tea has a rich, full-bodied taste with a hint of sweetness and a slightly smoky aroma that sets it apart from other teas.
Shui Xian tea is worth considering if you’re looking for a new type of tea. This article explores its origins, production process, flavor profile, varieties, and more.
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Origins of Shui Xian Tea
Shui Xian tea originated from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian province, China. The Wuyi Mountains are known for their unique ecosystem, perfect for growing tea. The area has a mild climate, abundant rainfall, and fertile soil, which makes it an ideal location for tea cultivation.
Teas from these mountainous regions are known as Wuyi Wea, Yan Cha, Rock Tea, or Wuyi Oolong. It is also worth mentioning the teas from this region are some of the most sought-after and expensive in the world.
Shui Xian is a type of oolong tea that is partially oxidized. The tea leaves are picked, withered, and then partially fermented before being roasted. The oxidation process gives the tea its unique flavor and aroma.
The name “Shui Xian” means “Narcissus.” The tea is also known as “Water Immortal.”
The tea has been grown in northern Fujian since the 19th century. Even though the tea is often associated with the Wuyi Mountains, it is grown in other parts of northern Fujian. It is produced in southern Fujian and northern Guangdong as well.
Cultivation and Processing
The leaves must be carefully cultivated and processed to produce high-quality Shui Xian tea.
First, the plant is grown in mineral-rich soil at high elevations, giving the leaves a unique flavor. The leaves are harvested all year round. Sellers distinguish four flushes (spring, summer, fall, and winter).
After being harvested, the leaves are withered. Then they are tossed, shaken, or rolled to break down their cell walls and release their natural flavors. The leaves are then allowed to oxidize. Oolong tea’s oxidation process is somewhere between green tea and black tea. Hence, a complex flavor profile is developed during this part of the process.
Once the leaves have been oxidized to the desired level, they are roasted at high temperatures to stop oxidation and lock in the flavors and aromas. The roasting step is critical to producing high-quality tea, as it can significantly affect the final taste of the tea.
After roasting, the leaves are sorted and graded based on their quality and appearance. The highest quality leaves are carefully packaged and shipped to tea connoisseurs worldwide.
The cultivation and processing of Shui Xian tea is a delicate and time-consuming process requiring great skill and expertise. However, the result is a tea rich in flavor and aroma, making it a favorite among tea lovers everywhere.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of Shui Xian tea can vary depending on the specific processing and growing conditions, but it typically offers a rich and complex taste. Here are some typical flavor notes:
- Roasted and Smoky: The tea often undergoes a roasting process, which imparts a gentle smoky aroma and flavor. The roast level can vary, ranging from light to heavy, affecting the intensity of the smokiness.
- Floral and Fruity: Shui Xian can exhibit floral and fruity undertones. The floral notes can resemble orchids, magnolias, or gardenias, providing a pleasant and aromatic element to the tea’s flavor profile. The fruity notes may include ripe plums, peaches, or citrus hints.
- Honey and Sweetness: This tea is known for its natural sweetness, sometimes described as honey-like. This sweetness balances out the smoky and roasted characteristics, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor.
- Earthy and Mineral: Due to its growing conditions in the mineral-rich soil of the Wuyi Mountains, Shui Xian can have earthy and mineral undertones. These flavors contribute to its character and provide a sense of terroir.
- Long-lasting Aftertaste: A notable feature of this tea is its long-lasting aftertaste. The flavors linger on the palate, often leaving a sweet and floral impression even after it has been consumed.
Varieties of Shui Xian Tea
Several varieties of Shui Xian are available, each with unique taste and characteristics.
The most common type is the Lao Cong Shui Xian, made from the leaves of old tea bushes that are several decades or even centuries old. This tea is highly prized for its complex flavor, resulting from the Wuyi Mountains’ unique terroir.
Due to the limited availability of the tea, it is considered a rare and prized variety. The age of the tea bushes, coupled with the expertise and craftsmanship involved in its production, contribute to its premium status.
Aged Shui Xian refers to tea that has been stored and allowed to mature over an extended period. The aging process allows the tea to undergo gradual changes in flavor, aroma, and overall character.
This aged tea is similar to types of aged tea, such as pu-erh or certain oolongs. It involves carefully storing the tea in controlled conditions, such as in proper packaging and storage containers, away from excessive heat, light, moisture, and strong odors. Over time, the tea undergoes natural chemical transformations that can result in an enhanced flavor profile.
Zhangping Shui Xian is named after its origin, Zhangping City in Fujian Province (remember, the Wuyi Mountains are the other growing area in northern Fujian). The region’s hilly terrain and the misty and humid conditions contribute to the tea’s distinct qualities. The flavor profile is often described as mellow, smooth, and well-balanced. It showcases a harmonious blend of floral, fruity, and roasted notes.
Brewing Shui Xian Tea
Gong Fu Brewing Method
If you want to enjoy the full flavor of Shui Xian, then the Gong Fu brewing method is recommended. This method involves using a small teapot (Yixing clay teapot) and brewing the tea in multiple short infusions. This brewing method ensures the best taste. Here’s how you can do it:
- Preheat your teapot and cups by rinsing them with hot water.
- Add the tea leaves to the teapot. The amount of tea leaves will depend on the size of your teapot, but a general guideline is 1-2 teaspoons of leaves for every 6-8 ounces of water.
- Pour hot water over the tea leaves and immediately pour it out. This helps to rinse the tea leaves and awaken their flavor.
- Refill the teapot with hot water and steep it for about 20-30 seconds.
- Pour the tea into your cups and enjoy the fragrant aroma and delicate taste.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 for multiple infusions, gradually increasing the steeping time with each infusion. You can increase each infusion’s steeping time by 10 to 20 seconds.
Please pay attention to the last step. You can (and should) infuse your oolong tea multiple times. Please make the most out of it!
Gaiwan Brewing Method
You can use a gaiwan to brew tea as well. A gaiwan is a traditional Chinese tea vessel that allows you to control your tea’s temperature and steeping time. Here’s how to use it:
- Warm the gaiwan and tea cups with hot water,
- Add the tea leaves to the gaiwan. Use 1-2 teaspoons of leaves for every 6-8 ounces of water.
- For heavily roasted oolongs, pour hot water over the tea leaves and immediately pour it out. This helps to rinse the tea leaves and awaken their flavor.
- Slowly pour water over the leaves till the rim of the gaiwan.
- Add the lid and steep for 20-30 seconds.
- Pour the tea into teacups. While doing this, hold the gaiwan with your thumb and middle finger. Secure the lid with the index finger.
- Repeat the process with multiple infusions.
Western Style Brewing
If you prefer to brew tea using Western methods, start by heating the water. Put one teaspoon of tea leaves into a tea infuser or strainer and place it in a cup. Pour the hot water over the leaves and let it steep for about 3-4 minutes. Remove the infuser or strainer, and enjoy your tea.
Ideal Water Temperature
The water temperature plays a crucial role in brewing this tea. If the water is too hot, it can burn the delicate tea leaves and ruin the flavor. On the other hand, if the water is too cold, it may not extract the full flavor of the tea leaves. Here’s the ideal water temperature for brewing this particular tea:
- Bring fresh, cold water to a boil.
- Let it cool down for 2-3 minutes until the water temperature reaches around 190-200°F (88-93°C).
- Pour the hot water over the tea leaves and let it steep for the desired time.
Remember to use fresh, cold water that is free of any impurities. Avoid tap water if possible, as it may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can affect the taste of your tea.
Health Benefits and Caffeine Content
Shui Xian tea might be worth trying if you’re looking for a tea that can offer health benefits and a moderate caffeine boost. Here are some of this tea’s potential health benefits and caffeine content.
Health Benefits
This tea contains polyphenols, antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, lower your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your overall health.
In addition, the tea may help improve digestion and relieve stress. Some studies suggest tea can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, although more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Caffeine Content
Shui Xian contains caffeine, but not as much as other tea or coffee. On average, a cup of this tea contains about 30-40 milligrams of caffeine, about half the caffeine in a cup of coffee.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you may want to limit your intake of this oolong tea or choose a decaffeinated version. However, if you’re looking for a moderate caffeine boost to help you stay alert and focused, Shui Xian can be a good choice.
Buying Shui Xian Tea
Here are some tips to help you find the perfect Shui Xian source.
Specialty Tea Shops
A great place to buy this tea is at specialty tea shops. These shops often carry a wide variety of tea blends. You can find loose-leaf tea or tea bags, depending on your preference. Specialty tea shops are also a great place to ask questions and get recommendations from knowledgeable staff members who can help you find products according to your preferences and budget.
Online Retailers
You can always turn to online retailers if you cannot visit a specialty tea shop. Many online retailers specialize in tea blends and offer various options. When buying online, read reviews and check the retailer’s reputation to ensure you get a high-quality product.
Here are some recommendations:
Premium Organic Wuyi Lao Cong Shui Xian
Wuyi Star Lao Cong Shui Xian Oolong Tea
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Shui Xian tea taste like?
Shui Xian tea has a unique flavor profile that is difficult to describe. It has a rich, smooth, and slightly sweet taste with a hint of floral aroma. The tea has a medium body with a pleasant aftertaste that lingers in your mouth. It is not too bitter or astringent, making it a popular choice among tea lovers.
What is the meaning of Shui Xian?
Shui Xian is a type of oolong tea that originates from the Wuyi Mountains in China. Shui Xian means “Narcissus” in Chinese, which refers to the flower’s sweet fragrance. This tea is also known as Narcissus because of its floral aroma and flavor.
How to make Narcissus tea?
To make Shui Xian tea, you must follow a few simple steps. First, rinse the tea leaves with hot water to remove any impurities. Then, steep the leaves in hot water for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your preference. You can adjust the steeping time to make the tea stronger or weaker. Finally, pour the tea into a cup and enjoy.
I hope you enjoyed the article and learned something new. See you next time!
Have you tried this tea?