# Oolong Tea Varieties: A Comprehensive Guide

## Introduction to Oolong Tea

Oolong tea, also known as wulong tea, is a traditional Chinese tea that falls somewhere between green and black tea in terms of oxidation. This semi-oxidized tea offers a wide range of flavors, aromas, and appearances, making it one of the most diverse tea categories in the world.

## The Main Categories of Oolong Tea

Oolong teas can be broadly categorized based on their region of origin and processing methods:

### 1. Chinese Oolong Teas

2. Taiwanese Oolong Teas

Each region produces distinct varieties with unique characteristics influenced by local terroir and traditional processing techniques.

## Popular Chinese Oolong Varieties

### Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy)

This famous Anxi oolong from Fujian province is known for its floral aroma and smooth, creamy texture. It undergoes medium oxidation (about 30-50%) and comes in both traditional roasted and modern greener styles.

### Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe)

One of the most prized Wuyi rock oolongs, Da Hong Pao offers mineral notes with a distinctive “rock rhyme” flavor profile. Grown in the Wuyi Mountains, these teas are typically more heavily oxidized (50-70%).

### Shui Xian (Narcissus)

Another Wuyi Mountain specialty, Shui Xian is known for its orchid-like fragrance and sweet aftertaste. Older bushes produce particularly complex flavors.

## Notable Taiwanese Oolong Varieties

### Dong Ding Oolong

Named after the “Frozen Summit” mountain in Nantou County, this medium-oxidized tea offers a perfect balance of floral and roasted characteristics.

### Alishan High Mountain Oolong

Grown at elevations above 1,000 meters, these teas are lightly oxidized (15-30%) and prized for their delicate floral notes and creamy mouthfeel.

### Oriental Beauty (Bai Hao Oolong)

This unique tea is made from leaves bitten by tea jassids, which causes the plant to produce a honey-like sweetness. It’s one of the most oxidized Taiwanese oolongs (60-70%).

## Lesser-Known Oolong Varieties

### Phoenix Dan Cong

From Guangdong province, these single-bush teas offer incredible complexity with natural flavor profiles ranging from orchid to almond to honey.

### Rou Gui (Cinnamon)

A Wuyi oolong named for its distinctive spicy, cinnamon-like aroma and flavor.

### Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong)

Developed in Taiwan, this cultivar naturally produces a creamy, buttery flavor without any additives.

## Choosing the Right Oolong

When selecting an oolong tea, consider these factors:

• Oxidation level (lighter for floral, darker for roasted)
• Roasting intensity
• Elevation (higher generally means more delicate flavors)
• Harvest season (spring harvests are often most prized)

## Brewing Oolong Tea

To fully appreciate oolong’s complexity:

1. Use high-quality loose leaf tea
2. Heat water to 85-95°C (185-205°F)
3. Steep for 30 seconds to several minutes depending on variety
4. Multiple infusions reveal evolving flavors

## Conclusion

The world of oolong tea offers endless variety and discovery. From the floral Tie Guan Yin to the mineral-rich Wuyi rock teas to Taiwan’s high mountain oolongs, there’s a perfect variety for every palate. Exploring different