Formosa Oolong
Formosa Oolong
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Formosa Oolong, also known as Taiwanese Oolong, is a semi-oxidized tea that originates from the lush, mountainous regions of Taiwan. The name "Formosa," which means "beautiful" in Portuguese, reflects the island's stunning landscapes where this exquisite tea is cultivated.
Renowned for its unique and diverse flavour profile, Formosa Oolong is celebrated for its intricate and meticulous processing methods. These methods involve partial oxidation and the skilful rolling of the leaves, a process that varies widely depending on the specific type of Oolong being produced.
The leaves of Formosa Oolong are typically larger and more robust compared to other teas, showcasing a vibrant spectrum of colours from vivid green to deep, dark brown. This colour variation reflects the level of oxidation the leaves have undergone, ranging from 10% to 80%. When brewed, Formosa Oolong produces a rich golden to amber liquor, revealing an aromatic bouquet that can include notes of orchid, honey, ripe fruit, and even hints of roasted nuts and caramel. The complexity of flavours in each cup can range from floral and fruity to creamy and slightly astringent, often with a smooth, velvety texture and a lingering sweet aftertaste.
The high-altitude cultivation of many Formosa Oolong teas significantly contributes to their distinctive flavour and aroma. The cool, misty climate of Taiwan's central mountain ranges, coupled with rich, fertile soil, creates the ideal conditions for growing high-quality tea leaves. The unique terroir of Taiwan's tea-growing regions, such as the renowned Alishan and Dong Ding areas, imparts a special character to the tea that is cherished by connoisseurs around the world.
Formosa Oolong encompasses a variety of styles, including the lightly oxidized Pouchong, the moderately oxidized Dong Ding, and the highly oxidized Oriental Beauty. Each style offers its own distinct taste experience, from the fresh, green notes of Pouchong to the honeyed, fruity complexity of Oriental Beauty. The tea is often handpicked and processed using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that each batch retains its unique qualities and high standards.
The preparation of Formosa Oolong is an art in itself, often involving a ritualistic approach that enhances the tea-drinking experience. The leaves are typically steeped multiple times, with each infusion bringing out different nuances and layers of flavour. This multi-steep process allows tea enthusiasts to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Formosa Oolong.
Whether enjoyed as a daily indulgence or savoured during special occasions, Formosa Oolong offers a rich, sensory experience that embodies the artistry and tradition of Taiwanese tea craftsmanship. Its ability to surprise and delight with each sip makes it a favourite among tea lovers and a testament to Taiwan's esteemed place in the world of fine teas.
Product Information
To Enjoy
Place one teaspoon per cup into an infuser, filter or teapot. Switch the kettle off, before it boils, when you hear the water rumbling. Add the hot, but not boiling, water and infuse for 3-4 minutes. Serve immediately or remove leaves to prevent spoiling
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oolong Tea.
Allergens Note: All products are packed in an environment that contains nuts and other allergens.
Our Sizes Explained
Caddies
Caddies
Standard Caddy
Our bespoke white and lilac caddy is the perfect way to keep your infusion fresh.
Contains enough for approximately 40 cups of happiness.
Refill Pouch
Refill Pouch
The refill carton, available in Standard and Large, is a perfect, environmentally friendly way to replenish your Tea Palace Caddies.
Contains enough for approximately 40 cups (Standard) or 60 cups (Large) of one of our infusions.
Sample Caddy
Sample Caddy
Our small sample size caddy weighs 45g and is the perfect way to try a new infusion or multiple different blends.
It contains enough for approximately 10 cups of goodness.
About Iron Goddess of Mercy
The "Iron Goddess of Mercy," known as Tie Guan Yin or Ti Kuan Yin, is a renowned oolong tea that originated from the Fujian province in China. This tea is highly prized for its unique flavour profile, which combines floral and creamy notes with a lingering sweetness.
Tie Guan Yin is traditionally grown in the Anxi County of Fujian province, China. The tea has gained popularity both within China and internationally for its distinctive taste.
Tie Guan Yin is a partially oxidized oolong tea, often falling between green and black tea in terms of oxidation levels. The processing involves withering, tossing, oxidation, fixation, rolling, and drying. The degree of oxidation can vary, leading to different styles of Tie Guan Yin, ranging from lightly oxidized (Qing Xiang) to heavily oxidized (Nong Xiang).
The leaves of Tie Guan Yin are tightly rolled into small, dense balls or pellets. The colour can range from bright green to deep brown, depending on the oxidation level. The leaves often unfurl during steeping.
Tie Guan Yin is celebrated for its complex flavor profile. It typically offers a balance of floral and orchid notes, a creamy or buttery texture, and a lingering sweetness. The unique mineral-rich soil of the Anxi region contributes to the tea's distinctive "yan yun" or rock rhyme.
The aroma of Tie Guan Yin is often floral, with hints of orchid and a subtle roasted quality. The fragrance is an integral part of the overall tea-drinking experience.
The brewed liquor of Tie Guan Yin can range from pale yellow to golden, depending on factors such as oxidation level and brewing parameters.
Oolong teas, including Tie Guan Yin, contain moderate levels of caffeine. The caffeine content is higher than green tea but lower than black tea.
Tie Guan Yin can be enjoyed through multiple infusions, with each steeping revealing different nuances of flavor. It is commonly brewed using traditional gongfu cha methods or in a teapot.
Tie Guan Yin is deeply rooted in Chinese tea culture and has a rich history. The tea is associated with the Buddhist legend of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, which adds to its cultural significance.
