Drinking this in the “Wu Yi” style with a bunch of tea leaves stacked up (3 tbsp dry!) in a gaiwan makes a smooth, somewhat herbal, very slightly fruity, and malty cup that gives way to an overall sweetness. Unlike some Taiwanese oolongs, this is more of a relaxing tea.
Aged Oolong
Oolong Tea by Imperial Tea Court
Traditionally, tea merchants keep all of their oolongs for aging, firing the tea yearly to remove unwanted moisture and further heighten and seal in flavors. After years of gentle firing, the tea develops a smooth, rich texture that’s unequaled by newer oolong tea. The dark ruby color and its thick, chewy mouth feel are sorely missing in “new age” oolong teas. The Chinese also use aged oolongs to help regulate digestive ailments. If you’ve forgotten, or you have not tasted a highly oxidized and high-fired oolong tea, this aged old oolong is your chance to discover the past again.
