origin Lishan, Taiwan

craft qing xiang

flavor notes gardenia, sugarcane, fresh cream

origin Lishan, Taiwan

craft qing xiang

flavor notes gardenia, sugarcane, fresh cream

Peaking at 2200 meters above sea level, Lishan is the third highest mountain in the Lishan Range. The garden from which this tea is harvested lies at approximately 2000 meters (6500 feet) above sea level, an elevation that yields temperate weather in the summer and light snow fall in the winter.

At this elevation, the tea plants are exposed to strong sunshine only in the morning before they are quickly enshrouded in mist. This short sun exposure allows the leaves to produce intense flavor compounds, but tempers the bitterness that can result from over-exposure. The cooler temperature also slows the plant’s metabolism, enabling the leaves to retain and store more flavor compounds.

Initial infusions yield a tea that is smooth and sweet with a hint of sugarcane and tropical fruits. Longer infusions yield intense floral and citrus notes over a viscous foundation of buttercream that seems to cling to our palates.

This is our go-to brewing method for Formosa oolongs, since it balances each element of this styles character. For an even sweeter and richer taste, decrease you water temperature while extending brew time; for a brighter and more vegetal taste, increase your water temperature while slightly decreasing brew time.

Learn the fundamentals of tea brewing and master your technique here.