Blog
Oolong tea (“black dragon” tea; 烏龍茶 – wūlóngchá), is more than a beverage- it’s a celebration of artistry, culture, and wellness. Nestled between the vibrant freshness of green tea and the robust depth of black tea, oolong’s semi-oxidized nature delivers a symphony of flavors, from delicate floral notes to rich, smoky undertones. Join me on a heartfelt journey to uncover the magic of oolong tea, where every sip tells a story of nature and craftsmanship.
Oolong Tea: A Masterpiece of Balance
- Crafted from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant – the same source as tea green and black teas – oolong tea stands out due to its carefully controlled oxidation, ranging from 8% to 85%. This delicate balance creates a spectrum of flavors: sweet florals, ripe fruits, creamy textures, or woody, smoky nuances.
The leaves, whether elegantly curled into strips or rolled into tiny dark pearls, transform into a brew with colors ranging from pale yellow-green to deep amber, inviting both the eyes and palate. Each cup is a testament to the harmony of tradition and nature, offering a moment of serenity in every sip.
Iconic Oolong Varieties and Their Origins
Oolong tea carries the legacy of its terroirs, each region infusing unique character into every leaf:
China
- Fujian:
- Wuyi Mountains : Have some product styles of oolong tea Da Hong Pao, Shui Jin Gui, Tieluohan, Bai Jiguan.
- Anxi: The production area oolong teas are made here with product Tie Guan Yin and Huangjin Gui
Guangdong Provine ,Phoenix Mountain:
- Dancong oolongs, such as Mi Lan Xiang known for complex flavors that require skillful brewing to avoid bitterness.
Taiwan:
- High Mountain Oolongs (Gaoshan): Refers to several varieties of oolong such as Alishan, Lishan,
- Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong): Creamy and approachable, perfect for newcomers to oolong.
- Baozhong: Lightly oxidized with uncurled leaves, showcasing delicate green-to-brown hues.
Vietnam: Emerging as a rising star, Vietnamese oolongs from Lam Dong, Moc Chau, and Yen Bai rival Taiwan and China quality at a more accessible price, making them a delightful choice for tea lovers.
- Shan Tuyet Tea (Lai Chau): Sweet, refreshing, golden honey-like.
- Thai Nguyen Tea: Nutty rice aroma, mild bitterness, sweet aftertaste, green-gold hue.
- Oolong Tea (Bao Loc): Elegant floral notes.
These teas are crisp and refined, reflecting the purity of their high-altitude origins. Research notes their high L-theanine content, promoting relaxation.
The Art of Oolong Tea Craftsmanship
The captivating flavors of oolong tea are born from a meticulous, multi-step process that blends tradition with artistry:
- Plucking: Hand-harvested buds, leaves, and stems enhance umami and sweetness, creating a rich foundation.
- Withering: Leaves are sun-dried (solar withering) then rested indoors, reducing moisture and unlocking floral, fruity aromas while minimizing bitterness, as noted in research.
- Bruising: Gentle tossing or rolling triggers enzymatic reactions, refining flavor and aroma.
- Kill Green (Fixing): Rapid heating (e.g., at 300°C/600°F) halts oxidation, preserving the desired character with precision.
- Rolling/Shaping: Leaves are shaped into strips or pellets, releasing flavorful juices to the surface.
- Baking/Drying: Final roasting creates complex Maillard compounds, ensuring depth and shelf stability.
- This labor-intensive craft, often guided by skilled artisans, transforms oolong into a true work of art, reflecting centuries of expertise.
Health Benefits: A Sip of Wellness
Oolong tea is a gift to both body and soul, packed with antioxidants like polyphenols, catechins (EGCG, EGC, ECG), theaflavins, caffeine, and L-theanine:
- Weight Management: Boosts metabolism and fat oxidation, with OTPP (Oolong Tea Polymerized Polyphenols) reducing fat absorption. Studies show it can reduce body weight and fat.
- Mental Clarity & Stress Relief: Caffeine and L-theanine enhance focus without jitters, while GABA oolong reduces stress, as evidenced by research.
- Heart Health: Lowers LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risks, recent several research in Medical News Today e-Magazine.
- Blood Sugar Control: Improves insulin sensitivity, aiding diabetes prevention (research).
- Bone & Digestive Health: Strengthens bones and soothes digestion with anti-inflammatory properties, easing acid reflux and ulcers.
- Antioxidant Power & Skin Health: Protects cells from free radicals, slows aging, and improves skin conditions like eczema (study).
- Immune & Oral Health: Boosts immunity and strengthens tooth enamel, reducing plaque formation.
- Brewing the Perfect Cup of Oolong
- To unlock oolong’s full splendor, brewing is key. Here are expert techniques to elevate your tea experience:
An Supply’s OOLONG TEA:
Brewing Directions:
- Rinse: Quickly rinse the tea leaves with boiling water (about 3 seconds) to awaken the aroma.
- Steep: Use 5g of tea for every 150–200ml of water at 85–95°C (185–205°F).
- Wait: Cover and steep for 5 minutes.
- Enjoy: Sip slowly and enjoy the layered flavors.
- You may re-steep the same leaves 2–3 times for additional cups with evolving taste.
Storage:
- Store in a dry, cool place.
- Once opened, store in an airtight container.
Western Style: Use 2 tablespoons of loose-leaf tea or 1 tea bag per 150–200ml of water. Steep for 3–5 minutes (loose leaf) or 5–7 minutes (tea bag). For maximum antioxidants, steep at 100°C for 3 minutes, per research.
Cold Brew: Steep in cool water for 6–8 hours in the fridge for a smooth, low-bitterness brew.
Food Pairings: Oolong complements fruits, desserts, and savory dishes. Add honey, lemon, or milk for delightful variations like bubble tea.
Mindful Enjoyment: Tips and Considerations
While oolong tea is a wellness treasure, savor it thoughtfully:
Caffeine: Limit to 6–10 small cups (240ml) daily (3–5 for pregnant women) to avoid side effects like insomnia or anxiety (study).
Interactions: Avoid combining with blood thinners, amphetamines, or clotting-slowing herbs like garlic or ginger.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from odors. Consume within 15 days of opening for peak freshness.
Bring An Supply’s OOLONG TEA into Your Life
Embrace An Supply’s OOLONG TEA where Vietnam’s misty highlands. Its floral aroma and smooth, rich flavor promote mindfulness and calm. Perfect for mornings, work breaks, or relaxing evenings, this tea blends nature’s finest traditions with serene joy in every sip.
For more information about our high-quality agricultural products and export foods, please contact us via our HOTLINE or send your inquiries directly to our email: info@ansupply.com.vn
