The long and short of Oolong
What Is Oolong Tea?
Oolong tea, or "black dragon" tea, is a traditional Chinese tea that has been enjoyed for centuries. The precise origin of oolong isn’t known, however a popular Chinese legend tells of a man named Wu Liang who discovered the tea by accident when he was distracted by a deer after a hard day's tea-picking, and by the time he remembered to return to the tea it had already started to oxidise.
The key difference between oolong and other teas is the level of oxidation the leaves undergo. Green tea is unoxidised, black tea is fully oxidised, and oolong tea falls in between.
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How is Oolong Tea produced?
The production process for oolong tea is quite complex and labor-intensive. The leaves are plucked and then withered under the sun to reduce moisture content. They are then shaken in baskets to bruise the edges of the leaves, which triggers the oxidation process. The leaves are then rolled and shaped into the desired form. The final step is to dry the leaves, which can be done in the sun or in a warm room.
One of the most famous oolong teas is Tie Guan Yin, which is grown in the Fujian province. Tie Guan Yin is known for its floral aroma and a sweet taste with a hint of honey. Another popular oolong tea is Wuyi Rock tea, grown in the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian province. This tea has a strong mineral taste that is characteristic of the Wuyi terroir.
Why is Milk Oolong Tea Expensive?
Milk oolong tea, also known as Jin Xuan oolong tea, is a type of oolong tea that has a creamy, slightly sweet flavor and aroma. It is often described as having a smooth, buttery taste and a silky mouthfeel. The unique flavour profile of milk oolong tea is attributed to the cultivar of tea plant used to produce it, as well as the processing method.
Milk Oolong Production
In terms of processing, milk oolong tea is produced using a unique method that involves a light roasting of the tea leaves and a short, low-temperature fermentation process. This process requires careful attention to detail and is more labor-intensive than the processing methods used for other types of oolong tea. As a result, the cost of producing milk oolong tea is higher than for other types of oolong tea. This results in a tea with a distinctive flavour and aroma that is unlike any other type of oolong tea. Additionally, some milk oolong teas are scented with milk flavouring or blended with milk powder to enhance their creamy flavour.
Is there a demand for Milk Oolong tea?
Absolutely, there is a huge demand for milk oolong tea. Milk oolong tea has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique flavor and aroma. This has led to an increase in demand for milk oolong tea, which in turn has driven up the price. Additionally, some vendors may charge a premium for milk oolong tea that has been scented or blended with milk flavoring, which can further increase the cost.
How to Brew Oolong Tea?
When brewing oolong tea it is important to use water that is not too hot, around 80-95°C. The tea should be steeped for 2-3 minutes for the first infusion, and the steeping time can be gradually increased for subsequent infusions.
Porter Hill’s Oolong Selection
There’s a wide variety of Oolongs to try, all with their distinct tasting notes and profiles. Not to mention the infinity of flavoured oolong blends!