Oolong tea, also known as qingcha, belongs to the category of semi – fermented teas. It combines the rich and fresh taste of black tea with the delicate fragrance of green tea, and is renowned as the “pearl of teas“. When oolong tea is brewed, the middle of the leaves remains green while the edges turn red, which is vividly described as “green leaves with red edges“. It is made through a series of processes including withering, shaking, stir – frying, rolling, and baking.
Basic Classification of Oolong Tea
- Southern Fujian Oolong
- Tieguanyin is one of the most famous varieties. It has a rich, mellow taste and a long – lasting floral aroma. The unique flavor is highly sought – after by tea lovers.
- Huangjinguì is known for its high – pitched, sweet fragrance and a light, refreshing taste.
- Maoxiè has its own distinct flavor characteristics, often with a slightly brisk and smooth taste.
- Daye Wulong, with its large leaves, presents a more robust flavor compared to some other varieties.
- Běnshān tea has a unique charm in terms of flavor and aroma.
- Qílán offers a delicate and complex flavor profile.
- Northern Fujian Oolong
- Wuyi Dahongpao is an extremely famous and precious variety. It has a strong, rich flavor and a unique rock – like aroma, which is deeply loved by connoisseurs.
- Wuyi Rougui is characterized by its spicy – sweet flavor and a warm, inviting aroma.
- Wuyi Shuǐxiān has a mellow, smooth taste and a gentle, long – lasting fragrance.
- Guangdong Oolong
- Phoenix Dancong comes in a wide variety of flavor types, each with its own unique aroma and taste, such as honey – scented, orchid – scented, etc.
- Phoenix Shuǐxiān has a rich and smooth flavor.
- Lingtou Dancong also has its own set of characteristics in terms of flavor and quality.
- Taiwan Oolong
- Dongding Oolong has a fresh, floral aroma and a sweet, smooth taste.
- Oriental Beauty has a very special flavor, often with a hint of honey and a unique fermentation – derived aroma.
- Baozhong tea has a light, fragrant flavor and a refreshing taste.
Exquisite Varieties of Oolong Tea
- Anxi Tieguanyin, with its long – standing reputation and high – quality flavor, is a top choice among oolong teas.
- Wuyi Dahongpao, as one of the most famous and valuable oolong teas, represents the pinnacle of oolong tea quality.
- Huangjinguì, with its distinct fragrance and taste, is also highly regarded.
Tips
The tea connoisseur provides some advice on whether it is better to drink hot tea or cold tea. The explanation for this question is that unless it is specially made cold tea, and if you have a relatively hot constitution, you can drink cold tea. However, for the vast majority of people, it is recommended to drink hot tea. This is because hot tea has the functions of clearing heat, resolving phlegm, promoting diuresis, and facilitating bowel movements. In contrast, cold tea not only lacks these functions but may also have the potential to cause stagnant cold and phlegm accumulation.
