We are thrilled to be able to offer tea enthusiasts a distinguished grouping of 2009 Wu Yi Shan oolongs. It is not often that such a fine selection of these teas can be purchased from one well-sourced place in the West.
Those in the know will recognize these teas: they are the four most famous Wu Yi Shan teas ( which are known as Si Da Ming Cong ) and one lesser known but delicious selection as well. As is the custom in the Wu Yi Shan, the teas are named after their singular tea bush varietals:
- Da Hong Pao ( Royal Red Robe )
- Bai Ji Guan ( White Cockscomb )
- Tie Luo Han ( Iron Arhat )
- Shui Jin Gui ( Golden Water Turtle )
- Jun Zi Lan ( Lady Lily )
For lovers of Chinese oolongs, Wu Yi Shan oolongs hold a special place. Also known as cliff teas, rock oolongs ormore specifically, yan cha, these teas (as a family of oolongs within the oolong class ) are easily recognized by their appearance. Unlike semiball-rolled-style oolongs, the leaves of yan cha are not connected – they are plucked and processed individually, which yields long, thick, strip-style single leaves.
Yan cha are dark in appearance, and are at the extreme end of partial-oxidation: 70-80%. They are traditionally given a light, medium or heavy roasting over charcoal ember fires. Yan cha represent the best in traditional, old-style Chinese oolongs, and were the favorite of emperors and Chinese scholars.
The flavors of these teas, while filled with nuance and character, are strong, powerful and mouth-drenching, and not for the faint of heart. Prefer bourbon over gin ? Steak over chicken ? Espresso over latte ? Then Wu Yi Shan oolongs may be the tea you have been searching for.
These teas are perfect for drinking now, and have a good amount of cha-qi. Set some aside for aging and maturing and you will be richly rewarded later.
Click here for more information about these teas: http://www.teatrekker.com/wuyi_yan_oolong.htm
