The best oolong teas are known for their complex and nuanced flavors.
To further enhance your tea-drinking experience, knowing the proper brewing methods and steeping times, which vary depending on the specific oolong tea you’re indulging in is important.
But, where to start with oolong teas? Don’t worry. We have categorized oolong teas in an easy way to remember. Also, we provide tips on how to choose them based on your taste preferences.
After reading this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy and appreciate the finest oolong teas available.
Please note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link. Of course, this comes at no extra cost to you and helps me keep offering readers solid information.
Understanding Oolong Tea
Difference Between Green and Black Tea
Oolong tea is a partially oxidized tea, falling between green and black tea on the oxidation spectrum. Green tea is minimally oxidized and retains its fresh and grassy flavor. Black tea, on the other hand, is fully oxidized and has a richer, bolder taste. Oolong teas originate from the Camellia sinensis plant, like green and black teas.
Oxidation and Its Effects
The oxidation level plays a significant role in determining the flavor profile and appearance of oolong teas. Oolong teas can range from 10% to 80% oxidation, giving rise to various flavors and colors.
Less oxidized oolongs will have a lighter taste, similar to green tea, while more oxidized oolongs will have a stronger, more robust flavor akin to black tea. The degree of oxidation also affects the color of the leaves and the brewed tea, with lighter oolongs having a greenish hue and darker oolongs appearing more brown or red.
Shape of the Tea Leaves
Oolong teas can come in various shapes, such as rolled, twisted, or curled leaves. The shape of the leaves is influenced by the techniques used during the processing stage.
Rolled oolong teas usually have a more concentrated flavor due to the compression, which helps release more fragrance and flavor when steeped. Twisted and curled leaves have a larger surface area, slowing the oxidation process and producing a more delicate flavor.
Processing and Its Role
The processing of oolong tea, involving withering, bruising, oxidation, and firing, significantly impacts the final taste and appearance of the tea.
High-quality leaves and precise processing techniques are essential to producing a great oolong tea. Each process step is carefully controlled to bring out the best flavors and aromas in the tea.
For example, the withering and bruising stages help initiate the oxidation process, while the firing stage helps to halt oxidation and develop complex flavors in the leaves. Due to the wide range of oxidation levels and processing methods, oolong teas offer a diverse flavor experience for tea enthusiasts.
Best Oolong Teas
Let’s now dive into the heart of the article. We are breaking down oolong tea by its two main areas of production: China and Taiwan. We will be providing buying suggestions as we go.
Fujian, China
Oolong tea originated in the Fujian province of China. This region is famous for its rich tea culture and diverse tea varieties. Fujian has two main areas where oolong tea is produced: Wuyi Mountains and Anxi County.
Wuyi Oolongs
Wuyi Oolongs (or Wuyi Rock Oolongs) are known for their unique mineral taste, often described as “rocky” or “earthy.” The leaves are dark and twisted, and the flavor can range from rich and complex to smooth and floral. High-quality Wuyi Oolongs can be steeped multiple times, revealing new flavors with each infusion.
Notable oolongs from the area include the following:
Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe)
Da Hong Pao is the most prized tea from the area.
The tea leaves used to make Da Hong Pao are plucked from ancient, gnarled tea bushes that are believed to be centuries old. These old-growth bushes contribute to the tea’s distinctive taste. Due to its limited production and the scarcity of genuine ancient tea bushes used in its production, authentic Da Hong Pao is considered one of the most expensive teas in the world.
When brewed, Da Hong Pao yields a liquor with a deep amber color and a captivating floral and roasted fragrance. Its flavor is a harmonious blend of sweet, fruity notes complemented by a subtle minerality and hints of roasted nuts.
Suggestion: GOARTEA 100g / 3.5oz Premium Fujian Wuyi Da Hong Pao
Tie Luo Han (Iron Arhat)
Named after the Buddhist warrior Arhat, Tie Luo Han is known for its powerful and robust flavor. It often boasts a roasted character with hints of dark chocolate and a lingering sweetness.
Bai Ji Guan (White Cockscomb)
Bai Ji Guan is one of the rarer Wuyi oolongs, characterized by its light, yellowish liquor and a unique taste that combines floral and fruity notes with a subtle mineral undertone.
Shui Jin Gui (Golden Water Turtle)
Shui Jin Gui is celebrated for its full-bodied, honey-like sweetness and distinct mineral flavor. It is a deeply roasted oolong that exhibits a remarkable depth of character.
Shui Xian (Water Sprite)
Shui Xian oolong teas are known for their sweet, floral aroma and flavor profile ranging from fruity to nutty. They are often more approachable and less roasted than other Wuyi oolongs.
Rou Gui (Cinnamon)
Rou Gui is renowned for its distinctive cinnamon-like aroma, flavor, and hints of fruity and floral notes. It is a medium-roasted oolong that balances the roastiness and the inherent tea characteristics.
Anxi Oolongs
Tie Guan Yin, often called Iron Goddess of Mercy, is one of China’s most famous (and the world’s) and beloved oolong teas. Even though this tea can be produced in regions such as Wuyi and Taiwan, it is often associated with Anxi County.
Tie Guan Yin is known for its exquisite balance of floral, fruity, and creamy notes. The slightly oxidized tea often carries a pronounced floral aroma reminiscent of orchids or lilacs. The flavor profile can include hints of peach, apricot and a delightful buttery or creamy texture. Some Tie Guan Yin varieties may also exhibit subtle mineral or vegetal undertones.
Suggestion: Tie Guan Yin Oolong Tea
Suggestion: Tealyra – Tie Guan Yin
Taiwan
Taiwan also has a rich history of oolong tea production. Thanks to its ideal climate, fertile soil, and skilled tea masters, Taiwan has become one of the leading oolong tea-producing regions in the world.
Taiwanese oolongs, often called “Formosa oolongs,” exhibit a wide range of flavors, aromas, and characteristics due to the diverse terroirs and tea cultivars employed in their production.
High Mountain Oolongs
Taiwan is famous for its high-mountain oolongs, often referred to as “gaoshan oolongs,” which are grown at elevations of 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) or higher. These teas benefit from cool temperatures, misty conditions, and the pristine mountain environment.
Here are some notable Taiwanese high-mountain oolongs
Alishan Oolong
Alishan oolong is one of the most famous high-mountain oolongs. Grown on Alishan Mountain in central Taiwan, it’s celebrated for its vibrant floral aroma, particularly notes of lilac and orchid. The flavor is delicate and often includes hints of sweet fruits and a creamy texture.
Suggestion: FullChea – Natural Alishan Oolong Tea
Li Shan Oolong
Li Shan oolong is cultivated in the Li Shan (Pear Mountain) region, one of Taiwan’s highest tea-producing areas. This tea is known for its complex, multifaceted flavor profile, including floral, fruity, and mineral notes. Li Shan oolongs are often highly prized for their elegance.
Suggestion: Xin Qing Lishan Oolong Tea
Shan Lin Xi Oolong
Grown in the Shan Lin Xi area, this oolong balances floral and fruity aromas, often with a pronounced creamy texture. Shan Lin Xi oolongs are appreciated for their versatility and adaptability to various brewing methods.
Suggestion: FullChea – Formosa Oolong – Shan Lin Xi
Da Yu Ling Oolong
Da Yu Ling Oolong comes from one of the highest tea gardens in Taiwan, perched at elevations above 2,000 meters. This extreme altitude imparts a unique character to the tea, with a pronounced floral aroma, a crisp, clean taste, and a sweet, lingering finish.
Suggestion: XIXICHA Dayuling Oolong Tea
Other Oolongs
Apart from high mountain oolongs, other remarkable Taiwanese oolongs include the following:
Dong Ding Oolong
Grown in the Dong Ding Mountain region, this oolong is known for its medium-level oxidation and traditional roasting. It offers a well-balanced flavor profile with notes of roasted nuts, caramel, and a hint of floral sweetness.
Suggestion: Xin Qing Dongding Oolong Tea
Pouchong (Baozhong) Oolong
This lightly oxidized oolong is often considered a bridge between green and oolong teas. It has a delicate, floral aroma, subtle vegetal character, and a slightly sweet, grassy taste.
Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong)
Jin Xuan is a popular oolong varietal known for its creamy and milky texture and taste. It often has a subtle natural sweetness and floral notes, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Suggestion: FullChea – Jin Xuan Milk Oolong Tea
Oriental Beauty (Bai Hao Oolong)
This unique oolong is also called “Champagne Oolong” due to its exquisite and complex flavor profile. It’s partially oxidized and possesses a sweet, honey-like taste with fruity and floral notes. Oriental Beauty is often heavily influenced by insect bites on the tea leaves, which contribute to its distinctive flavor.
Suggestion: Yan Hou Tang Organic Oriental Beauty Dong Fang Mei Ren
Oolong Tea’s Aromas and Flavors
Oolong tea is known for its diverse and complex flavor profile, which can vary widely depending on factors such as the tea’s oxidation level, growing region, processing methods, and tea cultivar. Here are some of the common flavor notes found in oolong tea:
Fruity and Spicy Oolong
Fruity and spicy oolongs offer a delightful combination of flavors and aromas. You’ll notice hints of stone fruits, such as peaches or plums, and a subtle spiciness that adds depth to your tea experience. The complexity of these flavor profiles enhances the overall enjoyment, allowing your taste buds to explore the natural flavors of the tea leaves.
Caramel and Butter Notes
Another dimension of oolong tea is the presence of caramel and butter notes. This smooth, rich taste results from the natural sugars in the leaves being carefully oxidized during the production process. Indulge your senses with these creamy, velvety flavors, and enjoy the aroma that reminds you of freshly made caramel.
Roasty, Toasty Undertone
Roasting, and toasting are essential in shaping an oolong tea’s flavor profile. A toasty undertone speaks to the skillful preparation of the tea leaves. Depending on the intensity and duration of the roasting process, you may pick up hints of wood, charcoal, or even chocolate in your cup. Let your senses guide you as you explore this warm, comforting aspect of oolong teas.
Citrusy, Lemony Essence
Lastly, some oolong teas exhibit a citrusy, lemony essence. These teas are lighter, with bright, zesty flavors that awaken your palate. You may also experience a lingering, refreshing aftertaste. As you explore these teas’ aromas and natural flavors, you’ll uncover the nuances of their unique character.
Below is a table suggesting the type of oolong to choose based on different flavor profile preferences:
| Flavor Preference | Recommended Oolong Tea | Flavor Profile Description |
| Floral | Taiwanese High Mountain Oolong | Prominent orchid and floral notes with a delicate sweetness. |
| Fruity | Ali Shan Oolong | Complex fruity flavors, often with notes of peach and melon. |
| Creamy/Buttery | Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong) | Creamy texture with a subtle milkiness and floral notes. |
| Nutty | Dong Ding Oolong | Roasted nutty flavors, particularly almond and chestnut. |
| Mineral | Wuyi Rock Oolong (Yancha) | Distinct mineral and rocky notes with a rich body. |
| Honey/Sweetness | Oriental Beauty (Bai Hao Oolong) | Honey-like sweetness with fruity and floral undertones. |
| Vegetal/Grassy | Pouchong (Baozhong) Oolong | Fresh, green, and lightly vegetal with a clean finish. |
| Spicy | Rou Gui (Cinnamon Oolong) | Spicy profile with hints of cinnamon and clove. |
| Woody/Smoky | Traditional Tie Guan Yin | Roasted oolong with woody and smoky undertones. |
| Earthy | Aged Oolong (e.g., Aged Tie Guan Yin) | Earthy notes, often found in well-aged oolongs. |
| Citrus Zest | Feng Huang Dan Cong Oolong | Citrusy zest, resembling lemon or orange, with a refreshing quality. |
Brewing the Perfect Oolong
Gong Fu Brewing Method
If you want to enjoy the full flavor of oolong tea, 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 about 5-6 grams of tea leaves to the teapot.
- 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 let it steep 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 the steeping time by 10 to 20 seconds for each infusion.
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 brewing 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 about 3-6 grams of tea per 100 ml 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.
Best Oolong Teas – Health Benefits
Oolong tea is not only delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits. When you sip a cup of oolong tea, you can enjoy its unique flavor and aroma while taking advantage of its powerful properties. Here are a few reasons to make oolong tea a regular routine.
Weight Management: Oolong tea boosts metabolism and promotes weight loss. The polyphenols found in oolong tea help to increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation, which can contribute to shedding those extra pounds. By substituting sugary drinks with oolong tea, you can reduce your calorie intake and work towards a healthier lifestyle.
Antioxidants: Oolong tea is rich in antioxidants, specifically polyphenols, which help to protect your body from cellular damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Mental Alertness: Drinking oolong tea can give you a gentle energy boost and improve your ability to focus. The caffeine content in oolong tea effectively stimulates your central nervous system, helping you stay alert and attentive throughout the day.
Oral Health: Oolong tea contains naturally occurring fluoride and tannins, which contribute to maintaining good oral health. Fluoride strengthens your teeth, helping to prevent cavities and tooth decay, while tannins can reduce plaque build-up and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Stress Relief: A cup of oolong tea can help you unwind and relieve stress. The L-theanine compound found in this tea promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness. Brewing a cup of oolong tea can become a comforting ritual to help you stay calm and centered in your daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I purchase high-quality Oolong Tea?
You can find high-quality oolong Tea at specialty tea shops, online retailers, or even local grocery stores. To ensure you’re getting the best quality, look for reputable sellers who provide detailed information about the tea’s origin, processing, and cultivation methods.
Which Oolong Tea brands are highly recommended?
Some popular and highly recommended oolong Tea brands include Ten Ren Tea, Adagio Teas, Harney & Sons, and Teavivre. Each brand offers different styles and flavors, so it’s worth sampling a few to find the one that suits your taste buds best.
What are the health benefits of Oolong tea?
Oolong tea boasts various health benefits thanks to its rich antioxidant content. It may help boost your metabolism, aid in weight loss, improve heart health and promote healthy digestion. Additionally, some studies suggest that oolong tea can improve brain function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Remember, moderation is key, and it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before using oolong tea as a remedy.
How often should I consume Oolong tea?
One to two cups of oolong tea a day can provide you with its health benefits without causing any adverse effects. However, each person is different, and listening to your body and adjusting your consumption is essential. Keep in mind that oolong tea contains caffeine, so it’s best to avoid drinking it late in the day if you’re sensitive to caffeine or have difficulty sleeping.
What makes an Oolong tea organic?
Organic oolong tea is produced using tea leaves grown without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In addition, the tea farms following organic practices prioritize sustainable methods, such as crop rotation and natural pest control. To ensure you’re getting organic oolong tea, look for certification labels like USDA Organic or European Union Organic.
How do I select the ideal Oolong tea for my taste?
Choosing the perfect oolong tea for your taste preference involves trying different styles and flavors. oolong teas come in a wide variety, ranging from light and floral (like Tieguanyin) to dark and roasted (like Wuyi Rock tea). Begin by sampling a few options and take note of the ones you enjoy most. You can also experiment with different brewing techniques and temperatures to bring out the unique characteristics of each tea.
Another wonderful article to write. I hope you have enjoyed the information.
Tell me, what are the best oolong teas?