Oolong means semi-fermented. After rolling, the tea is allowed to ferment only until the edges of the leafs start to turn brown. The tea is then fired which arrests the fermenting process and captures the interesting character associated with Oolong tea. In Taiwan, producing oolong tea involves highly specialized skills in the control of the withering, oxidation and firing. A slight variance in any of these gives each variety a distinctive aroma, flavor, color and finish.
The best Oolongs come from Taiwan (Formosa) where the character of short-fired oolongs has been described as peachlike with a refreshing fruity herbaceous character whereas long-fired oolongs take on bakey notes with rich amber liquids. This tea falls into the latter category.
It is worth noting that in Taiwan, the making of oolong tea is regarded as a precious art that requires years of training. From the nursing of a seedling, to planting, to nourishing the bushes, to properly selecting the best time to pluck the leaves, the husbandry of the tea farmer is a legacy passed down from many generations. It is felt that only the application of years of dedicated study and practice, combined with the unique character of Taiwan tea leaves, can provide the exceptional quality oolong teas that have made the island famous for its teas.
An interesting footnote: During the 2nd World War the production of tea was greatly expanded while the island was occupied. This production was exported to Japan to supplement their own production which was falling below domestic demand.
User Group Forum
Share your questions and information with the ZooScape community!
Be the first to post!
Directions
Hot tea brewing method: Bring freshly drawn cold water to a rolling boil. Place 1 tea bag for each cup into the teapot. Pour the boiling water into the pot, cover and let steep for 2-4 minutes. Pour into your cup; add milk and sugar to taste.
Iced tea brewing method: (to make 1 liter/quart): Place 5 tea bags into a teapot or heat resistant pitcher. Pour 1 1/4 cups of freshly boiled water over the tea itself. Steep for 5 minutes. Quarter fill a serving pitcher with cold water. Pour the tea into the serving pitcher straining the tea bags. Add ice and top-up with cold water. Garnish and sweeten to taste.
Label Information
Shipping Port: Taipei
Altitude: 400 - 1200 feet above sea level
Manufacture Type: Oolong
Cup Characteristics:A tea with a thin liquor and a bakey but somewhat sweet, fruity character.
Infusion: Tending black (noting the longer fermentation time for this type of oolong).
More Photographs - Formosa Oolong (Wulong Slimming) Tea
End of More Photographs - Formosa Oolong (Wulong Slimming) Tea
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor. Information provided at ZooScape.com relies partly on Traditional Uses. The essence of the current American rule on Traditional Uses is, as stated by FTC, "Claims based on historical or traditional use should be substantiated by confirming scientific evidence, or should be presented in such a way that consumers understand that the sole basis for the claim is a history of use of the product for a particular purpose."