Dong Ding tea is a type of oolong grown and processed in Taiwan.
The tea is named after the mountain where it is grown. It is sometimes referred to as “Frozen Summit” tea due to the mountain’s high altitude. The tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are partially oxidized before rolling and drying. This process gives Dong Ding its distinctive flavor and aroma, often described as floral, fruity, and slightly nutty.
Keep reading if you want to learn more about this fascinating tea. We cover its history, production process, characteristics, and varieties.
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History of Dong Ding Tea
Origin in Fujian Province
Dong Ding Tea, also known as Tung Ting Tea, originated in Fujian Province, China. It was brought to Taiwan in the mid-19th century by Lin Feng-chi, originally from the province. He settled in Lugu Township in Nantou County, the preset epicenter of the tea’s production.
If you are familiar with oolong teas, it may not be surprising to learn this tea has origins in Fujian. After all, the province produces the world’s most famous oolong, including the ones coming from Wuyi and Anxi.
Journey to Nantou County
When Lin Feng-chi arrived in Lugu Township, he was struck by the similarities between the climate and terrain of the area and those of his hometown in Fujian. He decided to try growing tea plants in the area and soon discovered that the tea produced there was of exceptional quality. He named the tea after the mountain on which it was grown.
Over time, Dong Ding tea’s popularity grew, becoming one of the most highly-regarded teas in Taiwan. Today, the tea is still produced on the same mountain and is known for its rich, complex flavor and aroma.
Cultivation and Production
Growing Conditions
As the name implies, Dong Ding is grown in the mountain with the same name. The tea is grown between 600 and 1200 meters above sea level. The mountain’s soil and climate provide the perfect conditions for growing tea leaves with a distinct flavor and aroma.
The tea leaves are grown in soil high in minerals and nutrients. The climate of the region is also ideal for growing tea leaves. The temperature and humidity are just right, and the area receives plenty of rainfall.
Oxidation Process
After the tea leaves are picked, they are spread out on bamboo baskets to wither for several hours. This process allows the leaves to lose moisture and become more pliable. The leaves are then rolled to break down the cell walls and release the enzymes that will cause oxidation.
The oxidation process is carefully monitored to ensure the leaves are oxidized to the desired level (15% to 30% oxidation). This process is what gives the tea its formidable flavor and aroma.
Roasting Technique
After the leaves are oxidized, they are roasted to stop oxidation and give the tea its final flavor. The roasting process is done in a special oven that uses charcoal as the heat source.
The leaves are roasted for several hours, and the temperature is carefully controlled to ensure that the leaves are roasted evenly. The roasting process also gives the leaves their distinctive shape and color.
Characteristics of Dong Ding Tea
Appearance
This tea is famous for its tightly rolled, ball-shaped, deep green leaves (since the oxidation is relatively light). The leaves are carefully handpicked and processed, producing a consistent, uniform appearance. When steeped, the leaves unfurl to reveal a vibrant, yellow-green color.
Aroma
The aroma of Dong Ding tea is delicate and complex. It has a roasted, nutty scent that is both sweet and floral. The aroma is subtle yet distinct, adding to the tea experience.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of Dong Ding can vary depending on the specific batch and processing techniques used. However, common flavor characteristics include:
- Floral: This tea often exhibits floral notes reminiscent of orchids or lilacs. These delicate and aromatic floral undertones add a touch of elegance to the overall flavor.
- Fruity: The tea may also possess fruity flavors, with hints of ripe peaches, plums, or citrus.
- Roasted: One of the defining aspects of this tea is its roasted profile. The leaves are traditionally roasted over charcoal, which imparts a warm, toasty flavor. This roasting process creates a caramelized and nutty taste that distinguishes Dong Ding from other oolongs.
- Mellow: This tea is known for its smooth and mellow character. The flavors are balanced, and the tea generally has a rounded mouthfeel. It is often described as having a comforting and soothing quality.
- Lingering Aftertaste: Another notable aspect of Dong Ding is its long-lasting aftertaste. The flavors linger on the palate, leaving a pleasant and memorable impression.
Brewing Dong Ding Tea
Gong Fu Brewing Method
If you want to enjoy the full flavor of Dong Ding, 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.
Dong Ding Tea Health Benefits
Nutritional Content
Dong Ding is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. It also contains caffeine and antioxidants, which have several health benefits.
Potential Health Benefits
Drinking Dong Ding may have many potential health benefits, including:
- Boosts Metabolism: Contains caffeine, can help boost your metabolism and increase fat burning. This can be particularly beneficial for weight loss.
- Supports Heart Health: The tea’s antioxidants and polyphenols may help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel function and reducing inflammation.
- Reduces Risk of Cancer: Contains catechins and flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. These compounds may help to reduce the risk of cancer by preventing the growth and spread of cancer cells.
- Improves Digestion: Drinking tea may help to improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. This can help to alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
- Promotes Better Sleep: This tea contains theanine, an amino acid that can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. This can help improve your sleep quality and reduce the risk of insomnia.
- Reduces Inflammation: The tea’s antioxidants and polyphenols may help reduce inflammation. This can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Buying and Storing Dong Ding Tea
Where to Buy
When buying Dong Ding tea, some options are available to you.
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.
If visiting a specialty tea shop is not viable, you can look for reputable online tea shops or retailers. You can also read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality of the tea and the seller’s reliability.
Here are some recommendations:
The Tea Farm – Dong Ding Oolong Tea
Dong Ding Oolong Tea Loose Leaf
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to keep your tea fresh and flavorful. Here are some tips to help you store your tea properly:
- Keep your tea in an airtight container to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the flavor.
- Store your tea away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as they can cause the tea to lose its flavor and aroma.
- If you’re storing your tea for an extended period, consider placing it in the refrigerator or freezer to keep it fresh.
When it comes to storing Dong Ding tea specifically, it’s important to note that the tea is typically harvested in the spring. This means that if you’re buying Dong Ding outside of the spring season, it may not be as fresh as it could be. Keep this in mind when purchasing and storing your tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you brew Dong Ding oolong tea?
To brew Dong Ding oolong tea, you must use hot water and a teapot or gaiwan. First, rinse the tea leaves with hot water. Then, steep the tea leaves for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. You can adjust the steeping time according to your preference. The water temperature should be around 90°C (194°F).
What is the taste profile of Dong Ding oolong tea?
Dong Ding oolong tea has a complex and rich flavor profile. It has a floral and fruity aroma with a smooth and creamy texture. The taste is sweet and nutty, with hints of honey and caramel. The aftertaste is long-lasting and pleasant.
What are the health benefits of drinking Dong Ding tea?
Dong Ding is known for its health benefits. It contains antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. It also contains caffeine, which can boost energy and improve mental alertness. Additionally, Dong Ding tea can aid in digestion and weight loss.
Where is Dong Ding Mountain located?
Dong Ding Mountain is located in Nantou County, Taiwan. It is one of Taiwan’s most famous tea-growing regions, known for producing high-quality oolong tea.
What is the price range for Dong Ding oolong tea?
The price of Dong Ding oolong tea can vary depending on the quality and grade of the tea. Generally, the price ranges from $20 to $100 per 100 grams. However, some premium grades can cost even more.
I hope you enjoyed the article and learned something new. See you next time!
Have you tried this tea?