Lishan oolong tea hails from the Lishan mountain range in Taiwan. The tea has a smooth and mellow taste, with notes of flowers and fruits.
The tea is grown at elevations between 1,200 and 2,600 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest-grown teas on the island. The high altitude and cool temperatures contribute to the tea’s delicate flavor.
Join us as we explore this tea with a vibrant golden color and captivating aroma.
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History of Lishan Oolong Tea
Tea has been cultivated in Taiwan for centuries. During that time, the island has become one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality tea.
Lishan oolong is grown in the Lishan Mountain range, which is located in central Taiwan. Tea has been grown in this particular area since the 1970s. Lishan means pear in English. Therefore, Lishan Mountain means Pear Mountain, a fitting name because of the area’s many orchards of this fruit.
The tea plants are grown at 1,600 to 2,600 meters above sea level (5,000 to 8,000 feet), giving the tea its distinctive characteristics. The cool, misty climate also contributes to the tea’s particular taste. The area produces the highest altitude Taiwanese oolong.
The tea leaves are hand-picked by skilled tea farmers, who carefully select only the best leaves for processing. The leaves are then processed using traditional methods involving withering, rolling, and drying. The result is a tea rich in flavor and aroma and a smooth, velvety texture.
The tea has gained a reputation as one of the world’s finest teas and has won numerous awards for its quality and taste. Its popularity has grown in recent years, and is now exported to countries worldwide.
Lishan Oolong Tea Harvesting and Production
Cultivar
The cultivar predominantly used to produce Lishan oolong tea is Qingxin. Qingxin, also known as Qingxin Oolong or Qingxin Gan Zi, is a cultivar known for its exceptional flavor and aromatic qualities. It is highly favored in Taiwan for producing high-quality oolong teas.
Qingxin belongs to the Camellia sinensis plant species and is a type of tea cultivar known as a “soft-stem” cultivar. The leaves of Qingxin are tender and pliable, making them well-suited for the processing techniques involved in oolong tea production.
This cultivar contributes to the distinctive floral and fruity notes found in Lishan Oolong.
Temperature and Climate
The temperature and climate play a vital role in the production of Lishan Oolong. The Lishan mountain range has a cool and humid environment, which slows down the growth of tea plants. This slow growth results in a more concentrated flavor in the tea leaves. The cool temperature also helps retain the tea leaves’ natural sweetness.
Harvesting
The tea leaves used are carefully hand-picked during specific seasons.
Winter harvest Lishan Oolong tea is considered to be the highest quality. The tea is harvested in the winter when the leaves are at their best. The cold weather causes the tea leaves to grow more slowly, which results in a more concentrated flavor and aroma. Other harvests are also available and are typically harvested in the spring, summer, and fall.
During the harvesting, only the top two leaves and a bud are carefully plucked by hand.
Withering
After being plucked, the freshly harvested tea leaves are spread out to wither. This step allows excess moisture to evaporate and prepares the leaves for the subsequent processing stages. Withering can occur indoors under controlled conditions or outdoors, depending on the desired flavor profile.
Tossing and Oxidation
In this stage, the leaves are gently tossed and bruised to initiate oxidation. In oolong teas, the oxidation level is typically partial, falling between green tea (minimal oxidation) and black tea (complete oxidation). High-mountain oolongs are usually 20% to 30% oxidized. This allows them to maintain part of their natural vegetable flavor.
The tossing process is carefully monitored to control the degree of oxidation desired for the final product.
Firing
The leaves are subjected to a brief heating treatment to halt the oxidation process, often through a quick pan firing. This fixation step helps to lock in the tea’s flavors, aromas, and color.
Rolling
The rolled shape is a defining characteristic of oolong tea. The withered and fixed leaves are carefully rolled into tight, compact forms (usually a ball or oval). Rolling shapes the leaves and breaks down their cell walls, allowing for further flavor development during subsequent infusions.
Drying
Following the rolling process, the tea leaves undergo a final drying phase. This step removes any residual moisture and stabilizes the leaves for long-term storage. Drying can be achieved through various methods, including sun-drying, oven-drying, or hot air drying while ensuring the optimal moisture content is reached.
Notice that Lishan oolong (and other Taiwan high mountain oolongs) do not undergo an intensive and extended roasting process (like the Wuyi oolongs produced in Fujian, China).
Sorting and Grading
After drying, the tea leaves are sorted based on size, appearance, and overall quality. This grading process ensures consistency and uniformity within each batch.
Packaging
Once the tea leaves have been sorted and graded, they are carefully packaged in airtight containers to preserve their freshness, flavors, and aromas. Proper packaging helps to protect the tea from moisture, light, and air, which can degrade its quality over time.
The harvesting and processing of Lishan oolong tea exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship and expertise of tea farmers in the Lishan region. Each step, from harvesting to packaging, is carefully executed to showcase the tea’s unique flavor profile, captivating aroma, and exceptional quality.
Lishan Oolong Tea Taste Profile
Lishan oolong tea has a captivating flavor profile that differentiates it from other oolong teas. This exceptional tea offers a delightful combination of floral, fruity, and honey-like notes with a subtle sweetness. Let’s explore its flavor profile in detail:
- Floral Notes: Lishan Oolong exhibits a prominent floral character, often reminiscent of orchids or lilacs. The infusion releases a delicate and fragrant aroma, translating into a floral taste that gracefully lingers on the palate.
- Fruity Nuances: Alongside its floral qualities, the tea carries subtle fruity undertones that enhance its flavor profile. The tea may exude hints of ripe peaches, tropical fruits, or even a touch of citrus.
- Honey-Like Sweetness: Lishan Oolong is often praised for its natural sweetness, akin to honey or nectar. This inherent sweetness brings a soothing and comforting quality to the tea. It provides a gentle and smooth mouthfeel.
- Subtle Vegetal Undertones: While this tea is renowned for its floral and fruity attributes, it may also contain delicate vegetal undertones. These nuances range from fresh grass or herbs hints to a mild nuttiness.
- Smooth and Mellow Texture: Beyond its specific taste characteristics, this tea is appreciated for its velvety and mellow texture. The tea liquor glides smoothly across the palate, creating a soothing sensation with every sip. This characteristic mouthfeel enhances the overall enjoyment of the tea-drinking experience.
Brewing Lishan Oolong Tea
Gong Fu Brewing Method
If you want to enjoy the full flavor of Lishan Oolong, 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 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 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 100ml 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 of Lishan Oolong Tea
Lishan Oolong tea is not only a delicious beverage, but it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits:
- Boosts Metabolism: Contains caffeine and catechins that can help boost your metabolism, leading to weight management and increased energy levels.
- Rich in Antioxidants: The tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Promotes Digestive Health: Contains tannins that can help soothe digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and nausea.
- Improves Brain Function: Contains caffeine and L-theanine, which can help improve brain function, including memory, focus, and alertness.
- Aids in Bone Health: Contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and fluoride that can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Contains L-theanine, which can help reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and calmness.
Buying and Storing Lishan Oolong Tea
When it comes to buying Lishan Oolong, you have some options.
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 the 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:
Taiwanese Lishan Polar Altitudes Loose Leaf Oolong Tea
Teawan Lishan Oolong Loose Tea Leaves – Vacuumed Packed
Teawan Lishan Oolong Loose Tea Leaves
Once you’ve purchased your Lishan Oolong tea, it’s important to store it properly to ensure that it retains its flavor and aroma. Keep the tea in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and strong odors. This can help prevent the tea from absorbing unwanted flavors and aromas.
If you plan to store your tea for an extended time, consider vacuum-sealing it to help preserve its freshness. This can be especially helpful if you live in a humid environment or won’t use the tea for several months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of drinking high-mountain oolong tea?
High-mountain oolong tea, such as Lishan Oolong Tea, has several health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and can help improve digestion, boost metabolism, and promote weight loss. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, oolong tea has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve brain function.
What is the difference between Lishan Oolong Tea and Shanlinxi Oolong Tea?
Lishan Oolong Tea and Shanlinxi Oolong Tea are both high-mountain oolong teas from Taiwan, but they have some differences. Lishan Oolong Tea is grown at a higher altitude and has a lighter, more floral taste. Shanlinxi Oolong Tea, on the other hand, is grown at a slightly lower altitude and has a more robust, fruity flavor. Both teas are of high quality and considered some of the best oolong teas in the world.
I hope you enjoyed the article and learned something new. See you next time!
Have you tried this tea?