Spring 2023 High Mountain LiShan Oolong

Simply put...

A high mountain LiShan tea : beautifully fresh and refreshing fragrant with flower bouquet and a lovely buttery aftertaste. 

In more depth

Tea Farmer  :  Mr Wen : a small garden of slow-grown Qing Xin leaves

Western Style brewing High Mountain LiShan Oolong

Amount of tea per cup (200 ml): 5g (one tea caddy spoon)

Temperature of water: 90℃ / 195℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)

Infusion time: 3-4 minutes (or as desired), then 2-4 minutes

Number of infusions: 4

How to enjoy: No milk, no sugar

Gong Fu brewing High Mountain LiShan Oolong

Amount of tea per pot: Fill 1/5 - 1/3 full of tea leaves

Temperature of water: 90℃ / 195℉ (boil kettle, cool for 20 seconds)

Infusion time: Firstly fill vessel to the brim and immediately discard water. Then infuse for 45 seconds - 1 minute (or as desired). Then 20/30 seconds for each further infusion.

Number of infusions: 4 +

How to enjoy: No milk, no sugar

In more depth...

LiShan  Oolong Tea:  has become the standard for which all other Formosan (Taiwanese) oolongs are compared - however this has resulted in some questionable farming practices - even more important to know where your tea comes from! 

This Spring 2021 season has presented huge challenges in Taiwan - drought has affected many gardens with reports that upwards of 40% reduction of leaf in the LiShan area.  This is where a knowledge of microclimate is important : the altitude and the surrounding mountains in Cui Fong mean that the teas are grown enshrouded in mist and receive minimal sunshine. At night, temperatures can drop below freezing. It is these factors and the fact that some rain fell here this year that means we can enjoy this tea this year.  The beautiful subtle floral tones of this high mountain tea combined with Mr Wens approach to natural farming all contribute to the tea's natural sweetness and richness of flavour and aroma.

Additional Facts : This is one of those teas that will reveal itself slowly to those with time and patience : so take a seat and take your time.  It is also a tea that will change with age - perhaps try it in a year but make sure you seal and store it correctly.