Oolong teas are like cousins. They may have the same name but each offers a different pleasure. The taste can range from clear, bright and flowery to heavy and charcoal-flavored depending upon their origin and processing. Oolong teas are withered in the sun, partially fermented, and sold as loose leaves or curled and rolled into small balls called “gunpowder.” The degree of fermentation varies between 8% and 85% which gives “Formosa oolong teas” a large range of aromatic varieties from a sweet and fruity honey aroma to a green / fresh bouquet flavor. Oolong #17 from Siamteas.com is light, fragrant yet very satisfying. You might enjoy it before meditation for clarity of vision while reducing stress, a cool fresh evening on a high mountain.
