It is a unique tea in more ways than one as its name will suggest. This tea is produced essentially like a fragrant high-mountain oolong would be. The only difference is the oxidation level of the leaves which is more accentuated (90-100 %) bringing out the tangy stone fruit notes (peach, cherry) which dominate with hints of fresh vanilla and wintergreen freshness in the finish. It definitely remains a fragrant tea with its palette of sweet alpine meadow blooms and wild honey flowers. The mouthfeel is thick yet suave with very supple and silky tannins which hint at more amplitude with time as this tea is allowed to mellow, if one has the patience to wait! More
It is a unique tea in more ways than one as its name will suggest. What is a red oolong, you may ask? The maker of this tea, Mr. Chen from Mingjian v Nantou, insisted that we name it that way, and he has a point: This tea is produced essentially like a fragrant high-mountain oolong would be. The only difference is the oxidation level of the leaves which is more accentuated (90-100 %) bringing out the tangy stone fruit notes (peach, cherry) which dominate with hints of fresh vanilla and wintergreen freshness in the finish. It definitely remains a fragrant tea with its palette of sweet alpine meadow blooms and wild honey flowers. The mouthfeel is thick yet suave with very supple and silky tannins which hint at more amplitude with time as this tea is allowed to mellow, if one has the patience to wait! There is definitely good material in this tea which makes it a pleasure to drink now and/or later if allowed to age properly. If you indulge in Taiwan Black teas, you must try this tea for its expansive fruity character and; it you seek the authenticity of good craftsmanship and excellence that only passionate organic tea makers can instill in finished tea leaves, this is a must (or we will be happy to keep it for ourselves!). It is also a bargain considering other black tea offerings from Lishan on top of being an organic tea! Best enjoyed in gongfu style settings.
