Country of Origin: Taiwan Grade: Jade Oolong

Altitude: 1000–2000 ft.   Manufacture Type: Handmade Oolong

Cup Characteristics: Very smooth with light floral notes and haunting finish.

Information: Oolongs follow almost the same production as black tea. The major difference between the two is in its shorter fermentation period - Oolongs are often referred to as semi-fermented teas - Formosa Jade Oolong undergoes a 60% shorter fermentation period. The result is a deeply complex 20%-25% fermeted Oolong tea that has characteristics of both black and green teas.

This Tung Ti Jade Oolong is entirely hand made and has a stunning leaf. When infused, the tea is complex - smoother than black tea, less grassy than green teas, and displays a certain balance and harmony in the cup that is almost orchid like. Dung Ti, like all Oolongs should be drunk straight without milk or sugar in order to appreciate its subtle complexities.

Hot tea brewing method: Oolongs teas are best enjoyed when the leaves are briefly infused with hot water, which is then poured off. The tea is then reinfused and tea is poured to the lucky guests after about 1 minute. The leaves may be reinfused several times, with each resulting infusion yielding different liquor from the proceeding cup.

Iced tea-brewing method: (to make 1 liter/quart): Place 6 teaspoons of tea into a heat resistant pitcher. Pour 1 1/4 cups freshly boiled water over the tea. Steep for 5 minutes. Quarter fill a serving pitcher with cold water. Pour the tea into the pitcher straining the leaves. Add ice and top-up with cold water. Garnish and sweeten to taste.