Oolong Tea, often considered the middle ground between green and black tea, is a unique and complex tea category cherished by tea enthusiasts around the world. Known for its diverse flavours and intricate processing methods, oolong tea offers a unique experience for those seeking a richly nuanced beverage. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Oolong Tea!
So, What is Oolong Tea?
Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that lies somewhere between green and black tea in terms of oxidation and flavour. The term "oolong" translates to "black dragon" in Chinese, which is a nod to its distinctive appearance and the traditional legend surrounding its origin. Unlike green tea, which is minimally oxidised, and black tea, which is fully oxidised, oolong tea undergoes partial oxidation. This unique processing method results in a diverse range of flavours, aromas, and colours that can vary significantly depending on the specific techniques used by tea producers.
The Best of Both Worlds
The defining characteristic of oolong tea is its partial oxidation, which typically ranges from 10% to 80%. This oxidation process allows oolong tea to exhibit qualities of both green and black teas. Lighter oolongs, with lower oxidation levels, tend to have fresh, floral, and green tea-like flavours. In contrast, darker oolongs, with higher oxidation levels, exhibit richer, more robust flavours akin to black tea. This hybrid nature of oolong tea makes it appealing to a wide range of palates.
Common Types of Oolong Tea
There are several renowned types of oolong tea:
Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy): This famous Chinese oolong from the Fujian province is known for its floral aroma, smooth texture, and light to medium oxidation. It often has notes of orchid and a sweet, lingering finish. Check out The Tea Centre’s Ti Kuan Yin Oolong.
Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe): Hailing from the Wuyi Mountains, this dark oolong tea is celebrated for its rich, earthy flavour with hints of roasted nuts and a complex, mineral aftertaste. It undergoes higher oxidation and roasting.
Dong Ding (Frozen Summit): Originating from Taiwan, Dong Ding oolong is typically medium-oxidised and known for its buttery, creamy texture and sweet, fruity flavour with a slight floral undertone. The Tea Centre sells a version of this, under the name Dung Ti Oolong.
Rolled vs. Larger Leaf Oolongs
Oolong teas can be categorised based on their leaf shapes: rolled and larger leaf oolongs.
Rolled Oolongs are tightly rolled into small, ball-like shapes. Rolling helps to protect the leaves during storage and transport, and it also allows the leaves to gradually unfurl during brewing, releasing their flavours slowly. Ti Kuan Yin and Dung Ti are popular examples of rolled oolongs.
Larger Leaf Oolongs are left in their natural, twisted leaf form. This shape allows for a more immediate release of flavours when brewed. Da Hong Pao and many Wuyi oolongs are examples of larger leaf oolongs.
Oolong tea is a remarkable and versatile category that bridges the gap between green and black teas - explore our range of Oolong Teas & find your new favourite!