Quanzhou Milk Oolong

The stories of this tea naturally center on its wonderful milky flavor, which interestingly, is the result of a sudden shift in temperature during harvest – a rare occurrence to say the least. One of the many legends explains that the first time this shift occurred was centuries ago when the moon fell in love with a comet passing through the night sky. The comet, as all comets are wont to do, passed by, burned out and vanished. The moon, in her sorrow caused a great wind to blow through the hills and valleys bringing about a quick drop in temperature. The next morning, local tea pluckers went out to collect their fresh leaf. To their surprise, when the tea was processed it had developed an amazing milky character, which was attributed to the motherly character of the old moon, Next, a little on how it is produced. Milk Oolong, like all Oolongs, is considered a semi-fermented tea meaning it is somewhere between a black and green tea. Over the years, production methods have remained unchanged for the most part although some aspects like withering temperatures have been automated and regulated. First, the leaf is plucked from gardens situated between 500 – 1200 meters, and is produced between March and December. Next, the plucked leaf is withered in air-conditioned rooms until it is has reached the desired level of fermentation. The fermented tea is rocked, or sifted to sort the prime leaf required, and steamed over hot fire. Finally the tea is dried then re-sorted to ensure leaf quality and packed. The tea is produced in relatively small quantities from March to December; in fact, only 80,000 kg are produced with about 60,000 kg headed for the export market.

Finally, addressing its outstanding flavor. Imagine if velvet somehow took liquid form and was blended with a sweet light cream. While drinking it, you are aware that there is nothing like it- it has a milky, and buttery characteristic with a  touch of orchids. It sounds dream-like doesn’t it? Well brew a pot and experience its milky dreaminess for yourself – an amazingly profound tea.

Be sure to pay special attention to the brewing guidelines as Oolong deserves a special attention to the simple yet important process of tossing the first 30 second brew and enjoy the next steeps, up to 5, infused for about 1-2 minutes each.