Aged Oolong Tea

To explore how aging changes the flavor of tea, we selected five traditionally charcoal-roasted Minnan Shuixian teas from Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory—vintages from 1994, 2004, 2014, 2020, and 2024.
This tasting journey reveals how time transforms the rich character of Shuixian oolong. Let’s experience the evolution together.

This Set Includes:
2024 Minnan Shui Xian (Charcoal-Roasted, Rich Aroma Style)* 20 g
2019 Minnan Shui Xian (Charcoal-Roasted, Rich Aroma Style)* 20 g
2014 Minnan Shui Xian (Charcoal-Roasted, Rich Aroma Style)* 20 g
2004 Minnan Shui Xian (Charcoal-Roasted, Rich Aroma Style)* 20 g
1994 Minnan Shui Xian (Charcoal-Roasted, Rich Aroma Style)* 20 g

Flavor Evolution (For Reference)

2024 (New Tea):
Dominated by natural orchid aroma with a touch of charcoal roast. The fragrance is bright and long-lasting — when brewed with boiling water, the rising steam carries a rich floral note. The tea leaves a clear, lingering aroma in the cup. The taste is full-bodied, smooth, and sweet, with richness but no bitterness. It delivers a strong returning sweetness and a long, lingering finish. The liquor is robust yet not overly stimulating.
5-Year Aged (2020):
Orchid aroma fades, charcoal notes retreat. Hints of ripe fruit begin to emerge, along with a touch of fresh woodiness. A light acidity appears, but the tea still stimulates salivation. The overall taste becomes smoother, though slightly thinner in complexity.
10-Year Aged (2015):
Acidity lessens. Aged notes (like dry wood) blend with faint traces of orchid. The freshness is gone. The liquor becomes silky, and the returning sweetness shifts toward a rock sugar-like softness.
20-Year Aged (2005):
Dominated by aged aromas (sandalwood, herbs). The liquor turns amber, thick and rich like rice soup. The aftertaste is deep with a medicinal undertone.
30-Year Aged (1995):
A complex blend of aged and herbal notes (like ginseng and dried citrus peel). The liquor is thick, smooth, and almost oily. Sweetness is subtle and refined, with a long-lasting aftertaste reminiscent of aged liquor.

How to Brew?
Teaware:
For fresh tea, use a gaiwan or Yixing teapot.
For teas aged 5–10 years, use a Yixing teapot.
For teas aged 20+ years, use an old Yixing teapot or a coarse clay pot for boiling.
Water Temperature:
Fresh tea: 95–100°C
Aged tea: 100°C
Tea-to-Water Ratio:
1g tea per 20 ml of water
Awakening the Tea:
For teas aged 5–10 years: open the bag and let the tea breathe for about 5 minutes before brewing.
For teas aged 20+ years: open the bag and let it air out a day in advance.
Steep Time
Rinse First:
First infusion: quick 3-second rinse, discard — this is to warm up and awaken the tea.
2nd to 4th infusion: 8–15 seconds
From the 5th infusion onward: increase time by 5–10 seconds per brew
For Aged Tea (20+ years):
Can be boiled directly or brewed in a teapot for 10 infusions before boiling.

Recommended Purchase ：

This Tie Guan Yin Oolong tea, produced between 1990 and 1993, has been stored in a dry warehouse of an old tea factory for over thirty years and kept sealed. It is made from the Tie Guan Yin variety from the famous tea-growing region of Yongchun, Fujian, and was crafted by the state-owned Yongchun Kong Overseas Chinese Tea Factory, established in 1958. This tea is entirely handmade, traditionally roasted over a full fire, and comes in its original packaging. No longer available on the market, its unique "aged aroma," rich sweetness, and smooth texture make it a prized choice for connoisseurs of aged oolong tea.

Key Details about Tieguanyin ：

• Production Date：1990-1993
• Grade: First grade 
• Tea Cultivar： Tieguanyin
• Craftsmanship： This tea is traditionally roasted with a full fire and moderately oxidized. After over thirty years of natural aging in a dry storage environment, it is sealed in an outer paper box and packaged in an inner kraft paper bag. 
• Flavor Highlights： This tea offers a rich, aged aroma with hints of woody notes. The texture is thick and smooth, with a deep, mellow flavor and a long-lasting sweet aftertaste. Its complex profile unfolds in layers, making it a truly refined experience.

What is Tieguanyin Oolong Tea? ：

Tieguanyin is one of China's top ten famous teas, a semi-fermented oolong tea primarily produced in Anxi, Fujian. Its unique production process includes sun-withering, shaking, and heating, which gives the leaves a distinctive "green leaf with red edges" appearance. The tea features tightly rolled, sandy-green leaves and a golden, clear brew. It has a rich, lasting aroma with natural orchid or fruity notes, a smooth, refreshing taste, and a sweet aftertaste. Highly resistant to multiple infusions, Tieguanyin is packed with nutrients like polyphenols and amino acids, offering benefits such as boosting alertness, reducing fatigue, cooling the body, and aiding weight loss. A treasured tea and a symbol of Southern Fujian's tea culture, it is widely loved by tea enthusiasts.

Brewing and Enjoyment Tips ：

This tea showcases the unique transformation brought by time. The first infusion can be used as a "tea awakening" step to activate the tea's inner qualities, resulting in a richer, smoother texture and a more pronounced sweet aftertaste. For the best experience, we recommend using longer steeping times or boiling methods to fully unlock its aged characteristics.

Recommended Brewing Methods ：

• Gaiwan Brewing
  • Capacity：100ml Gaiwan
  • Water Temperature：95℃-100℃
  • Brewing Times：5-7 times
  • Tea Water Ratio：1:15 to 1:25
  • Brewing Time Once：10~20 seconds

• Thermos Brewing
  • 1g tea per 100ml (3.4oz) water.
  • Use boiling water (212°F).
  • Steeping Time: 1-2 hours.
  • Tool: Insulated thermos.

• Boiling Method
  • Add 1g tea per 100ml (3.4fl oz) water.
  • Boil for 1-2 minutes, then let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  • Rebrew by boiling for 3 minutes longer with each steeping.
  • Use a ceramic or glass teapot for optimal flavor.
  • Enjoy up to 3-4 brews.

Storage Guidelines： 

To ensure the best quality of tea, the ideal way to store it is in vacuum-sealed packaging, kept in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid exposure to strong odors and air. For sealed storage, using a tin can or a double-lidded metal can is recommended. For even better results, you can store the sealed tea in the refrigerator or a dry storage container.

Weight & Packaging

• Weight：3.5oz (100g)
• Packing Type ： Sealed paper box with cowhide bag packaging inside

About Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory：

Established in 1958, the state-owned Fujian Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory carries a rich history and cultural heritage of tea production. At its peak, the factory was a bustling hub of innovation and craftsmanship, employing over 1,000 tea workers and producing millions of pounds of tea annually. Its teas, including Tieguanyin, were exported to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Southeast Asia, earning widespread acclaim and becoming a shining symbol of Fujian's tea culture.

However, by the 1990s, the factory fell into decline, and its once-vibrant grounds grew quiet. Unable to bear seeing his life's work fade away, the veteran factory director, Huang Shenghou, took over after its privatization, dedicating himself to reviving the factory and preserving its tea-making legacy.

Today, the factory's aged Tieguanyin not only embodies decades of tea-making expertise but also continues to showcase the timeless charm of Yongchun's Tieguanyin. The story of the Fujian Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory reflects the dedication and innovation of generations of tea artisans, and its aged Tieguanyin carries forward this remarkable legacy.

During the aging and transportation process of aged tea, the packaging and the tea itself may get damaged. Please be cautious when purchasing if you mind this.

Recommended Purchase

This Yongchun Fo Shou Oolong tea, produced in 1993 and naturally aged in dry storage for 33 years, is made from the Yongchun Fo Shou variety, a well-known tea type from Yongchun, Fujian Province. It was crafted by the Yongchun Beikong Overseas Chinese Tea Factory, established in 1917. This tea is handcrafted with traditional full-heat roasting and comes in its original packaging. No longer available on the market, it features a unique "aged aroma", rich sweetness and smooth texture, making it a cherished choice for lovers of aged Oolong tea.

Key Details about 1993 Yongchun Fo Shou

• Origin: Yongchun, Fujian Province, China
• Production Date : 1993
• Grade: Special Grade 
• Tea Cultivar: Yongchun Fo Shou 
• Craftsmanship : Traditional high-fire roasting with medium fermentation, followed by 33 years of natural dry storage in sealed outer box with an inner foil bag.
• Flavor Highlights: Warm "aged aroma" with notes of roasted nuts, complex layers of aged flavors.

What is Yongchun Fo Shou Oolong Tea? 

Yongchun Fo Shou, also known as "Buddha’s Hand," is a premium variety of oolong tea grown in Yongchun, Fujian. Named after its leaves that resemble a Buddha’s hand, Yongchun Fo Shou is celebrated for its fragrant aroma, smooth taste, and exceptional aging potential. The tea is lightly twisted into a "dragonfly head" shape, with dark blackish-brown leaves indicative of traditional craftsmanship.

Brewing and Enjoyment Tips 

This tea is a testament to the transformative effects of time, offering a rich, smooth, and slightly tangy flavor profile. Best enjoyed with long steeping times or simmering to fully release its aged characteristics.

Recommended Brewing Methods:

• Gaiwan Brewing：
  • 100ml Gaiwan
  • 95℃-100℃
  • 5-7 times
  • 1:15 to 1:25
  • 10~20 seconds
• Thermos Brewing:
  • 1g tea per 100ml (3.4oz) water. 
  • Use boiling water (212°F). 
  • Steeping Time: 1-2 hours. 
  • Tool: Insulated thermos.
• Boiling Method:
  • Add 1g tea per 100ml (3.4oz) water.
  • Boil for 1-2 minutes, then let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  • Rebrew by boiling 3 minutes longer with each steeping.
  • Use a ceramic or glass teapot for optimal flavor.
  • Enjoy up to 3-4 brews.

Storage Guidelines 

Store this tea in a dry, cool environment with a humidity level below 45% and temperature below 25°C (77°F). Keep it away from strong odors, light, and air exposure. Proper storage ensures the tea retains its flavor and continues to age gracefully over time.

Weight

• 4.4oz (125g)
• Packing Type : Sealed Paper Box with Internal Foil Bag

About Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory 

Founded in 1917, the Yongchun Beikeng Tea Factory has a rich history of producing high-quality teas. Once a bustling hub of innovation and craftsmanship, the factory was home to over 1,000 tea workers at its peak, producing millions of pounds of tea annually. Its products, including Yongchun Fo Shou, were highly sought after in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

Just as many state-owned old factories have experienced ups and downs, in the 1990s, the tea factory once fell into a slump, and the once bustling factory area gradually became desolate. The former factory director, Huang Shenghou, who had created its greatest glory and witnessed its decline, was deeply saddened by its decline and took over the factory himself after privatization.

Today, this aged Yongchun Fo Shou tea stands as a flavorful tribute to the factory's storied past and the enduring legacy of traditional Chinese tea-making.

Recommended Purchase

This Southern Fujian Shui Xian Oolong Tea, produced between 1993 and 1995 and aged for over 30 years in a dry warehouse under sealed conditions, is made from the Shui Xian (Narcissus) varietal sourced from Yongchun, Fujian—the birthplace of this tea. It was jointly produced by Quanzhou Tea Import & Export Company and the State-Owned Yongchun Kong Overseas Chinese Tea Factory in Fujian.
Processed using the Yongchun Shui Xian method, this tea is a classic example of Oolong tea, preserved in its original packaging. It is no longer available on the market. The tea exhibits a distinct aged aroma, accompanied by a subtle medicinal fragrance, with a sweet, mellow flavor and a smooth texture. Its excellent aging results make it a treasured choice for enthusiasts of aged Oolong tea.

Key Details about Southern Fujian Shui Xian

• Origin：Yongchun, Fujian Province, China
• Production Date：1993-1995
• Grade: First grade
• Tea Cultivar：Shui Xian
• Craftsmanship：This tea is processed into oolong tea using the Yong Chun Shui Xian method, with moderate fermentation. It has been naturally aged in a dry storage environment for over 30 years. The tea is packaged in its original sealed cardboard box, with an inner aluminum foil layer for additional protection. 
• Flavor Highlights ：The tea exhibits a distinct aged aroma, accompanied by a subtle medicinal fragrance. Its flavor is sweet and mellow, with a smooth texture, showcasing excellent aging effects.

What is Southern Fujian Shui Xian Tea? 

Southern Fujian Shui Xian Tea originated in Northern Fujian and was introduced to Yong Chun during the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty. Over time, its processing techniques evolved by blending the characteristics of Northern and Southern Fujian oolong teas, resulting in a unique method that enhances the tea's durability for multiple infusions, intensifies its orchid-like aroma, and produces a bright yellow liquor with a sweet, mellow, and refreshing flavor. Beyond its exceptional taste, Southern Fujian Shui Xian Tea offers numerous health benefits, such as activating the autonomic nervous system, reducing stress, enhancing energy metabolism, breaking down fats, and lowering cholesterol, making it a cherished choice for both tea enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals.

Brewing and Enjoyment Tips 

This tea showcases the unique transformation brought by time. The first infusion can be used as a "tea awakening" step to activate the tea's inner qualities, resulting in a richer, smoother texture and a more pronounced sweet aftertaste. For the best experience, we recommend using longer steeping times or boiling methods to fully unlock its aged characteristics.

Recommended Brewing Methods

Gaiwan Brewing :

• Capacity：110ml Gaiwan
• Water Temperature：100℃
• Brewing Times：5-7 times
• Tea Water Ratio：1:22
• Brewing Time Once：For brewing, begin with a quick rinse (1-2 seconds) and discard the liquid. For the first three infusions, steep the tea for just a few seconds and pour out immediately. After that, gradually extend each subsequent infusion by 5-10 seconds to adapt to the evolving flavor profile.
  

Storage Guidelines 

To ensure the best quality of tea, the ideal way to store it is in vacuum-sealed packaging, kept in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid exposure to strong odors and air. For sealed storage, using a tin can or a double-lidded metal can is recommended. For even better results, you can store the sealed tea in the refrigerator or a dry storage container.

Weight & Packaging：

Weight : 4.4oz (125g)
Packing Type : Original paper box sealed packaging, inner aluminum film sealed packaging

About Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory

Established in 1958, the state-owned Fujian Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory carries a rich history and cultural heritage of tea production. At its peak, the factory was a bustling hub of innovation and craftsmanship, employing over 1,000 tea workers and producing millions of pounds of tea annually. Its teas, including Tieguanyin, were exported to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Southeast Asia, earning widespread acclaim and becoming a shining symbol of Fujian's tea culture.
However, by the 1990s, the factory fell into decline, and its once-vibrant grounds grew quiet. Unable to bear seeing his life's work fade away, the veteran factory director, Huang Shenghou, took over after its privatization, dedicating himself to reviving the factory and preserving its tea-making legacy.
Today, the factory's aged Tieguanyin not only embodies decades of tea-making expertise but also continues to showcase the timeless charm of Yongchun's Tieguanyin. The story of the Fujian Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory reflects the dedication and innovation of generations of tea artisans, and its aged Tieguanyin carries forward this remarkable legacy.

During the aging and transportation process of aged tea, the packaging and the tea itself may get damaged. Please be cautious when purchasing if you mind this.

Recommended Purchase

This 1996 Aged Dancong Shui Xian Oolong Tea is crafted from Shui Xian tea cultivars grown in the famous Wuyi Mountain region of Fujian, China. Produced by the Wuyi Mountain Tea Factory, this tea has been naturally aged in dry storage for 30 years. It is known for its rich, sweet aroma with notes of roasted sweet potato and fruit, and the distinctive floral fragrance of orchids. The tea liquor is a vibrant, deep orange, and the taste is thick, with a noticeable acidity that gives way to a refreshing aftertaste. This product is in its original packaging and is no longer in circulation on the market.This tea is ideal for those who appreciate the complexity of aged Wuyi rock teas and are looking for a bold, full-bodied flavor.

Key Details about 1996 Aged Dancong Shui Xian

• Origin: Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, China
• Production Date: 1996
• Grade: Special Grade Dancong
• Tea Cultivar: Shui Xian
• Craftsmanship: Medium roasting, medium oxidation, light rolling
• Flavor Highlights: Sweet aroma with roasted sweet potato, fruit, and floral orchid notes, thick and refreshing taste with acidity
• Storage: Naturally dry-aged, sealed packaging for optimal preservation

What is Dancong Shui Xian Oolong Tea?

Dancong Shui Xian is a type of Wuyi rock tea, known for its intense, complex flavor profile. Shui Xian is one of the most well-known cultivars in Wuyi Mountain and is prized for its unique floral and fruit-like aroma. The tea undergoes a moderate level of oxidation and is roasted to bring out its robust flavor. Aged Shui Xian Oolong offers even deeper complexity, with the floral, fruity notes mellowing into more nuanced, savory characteristics. This makes it a perfect choice for tea connoisseurs who appreciate both freshness and the depth of aged tea.

Brewing and Enjoyment Tips

Aged Shui Xian tea is best enjoyed using Gongfu brewing or boiling methods, which can bring out the full range of aromas and flavors. The tea has excellent durability, so it can withstand multiple brews.

How to Brew 1996 Aged Dancong Shui Xian Oolong Tea

• Gongfu Brewing Method 
  
• • Tea-to-Water Ratio: 6g tea per 100ml water 
    
  • Water Temperature: 95-100°C (203-212°F)
    
  • Steeping Time: 10-15 seconds for the first brew, increase time for each subsequent brew
    
  • Recommended Tool: Porcelain Gaiwan or Yixing Clay Teapot
• Boiling Method 
  • Tea-to-Water Ratio: 3g per 100ml water
    
  • Process: Boil the tea for 3-5 minutes, then simmer for 2-3 minutes
    
  • Rebrewing: Extend boiling time by 2-3 minutes for each subsequent brew 
    
  • Recommended Tool: Glass or ceramic teapot

Storage Guidelines for Aged Shui Xian Oolong Tea

To preserve the tea's aging qualities, store it in a cool, dry environment, away from direct light and strong odors. Keep the tea sealed in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and moisture. Proper storage will allow the tea to continue aging gracefully.

Weight & Packaging

• Net Weight: 125g (4.4oz)
• Packing Type: Original sealed paper box with inner aluminum foil bag

Recommended Purchase

This 1993 Aged Min Nan Shui Xian Oolong Tea is crafted from the Shui Xian tea cultivar, grown in Fujian, China. Produced by the renowned Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory, which was established in 1917. This tea has been naturally aged in dry storage for 33 years, developing a unique blend of sweet aged aroma and medicinal fragrance. With a smooth, thick mouthfeel and a lingering sweetness, it is ideal for those who appreciate the depth of aged teas. The traditional high-temperature roasting and medium oxidation enhance its warming characteristics. This product is in its original packaging and is no longer in circulation on the market.

Key Details about 1993 Aged Min Nan Shui Xian

Origin: Yongchun, Fujian Province, China 
Production Date: 1993
Grade: Second Grade 
Tea Cultivar: Shui Xian
Craftsmanship: Traditional high-fire roasting, medium oxidation, light rolling 
Flavor Highlights: Sweet aged aroma with medicinal fragrance, thick and smooth taste, long-lasting aftertaste
Storage: Naturally dry-aged, sealed packaging for optimal preservation 

What is Min Nan Shui Xian Oolong Tea?

Min Nan Shui Xian is a Southern Fujian-style Oolong tea, known for its rich fragrance, mellow body, and lasting sweetness. Compared to Wuyi Shui Xian, it undergoes less oxidation, resulting in a softer and smoother profile. After decades of aging, this 1993 batch has developed an aged sweetness, medicinal notes, and a thick, velvety texture, making it a highly sought-after selection among aged tea connoisseurs.

Recommended Brewing Methods:

Gaiwan Brewing：
100ml Gaiwan
95℃-100℃
5-7 times
1:15 to 1:25
10~20 seconds

Thermos Brewing :
1g tea per 100ml (3.4oz) water.
Use boiling water (212°F).
Steeping Time: 1-2 hours.
Tool: Insulated thermos.

Boiling Method :
Add 1g tea per 100ml (3.4oz) water.
Boil for 1-2 minutes, then let sit for 2-3 minutes.
Rebrew by boiling 3 minutes longer with each steeping.
Use a ceramic or glass teapot for optimal flavor.
Enjoy up to 3-4 brews.

Storage Guidelines 
Store this tea in a dry, cool environment with a humidity level below 45% and temperature below 25°C (77°F). Keep it away from strong odors, light, and air exposure. Proper storage ensures the tea retains its flavor and continues to age gracefully over time.

Weight & Packaging
Net Weight: 100g (3.5oz) 
Packing Type: Original sealed paper box with inner aluminum foil bag

About Yongchun Beikeng Overseas Chinese Tea Factory
Founded in 1917, the Yongchun Beikeng Tea Factory has a rich history of producing high-quality teas. Once a bustling hub of innovation and craftsmanship, the factory was home to over 1,000 tea workers at its peak, producing millions of pounds of tea annually. The factory's products, including Min Nan Shui Xian, were highly sought after in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

Just as many state-owned old factories have experienced ups and downs, in the 1990s, the tea factory once fell into a slump, and the once bustling factory area gradually became desolate. The former factory director, Huang Shenghou, who had created its greatest glory and witnessed its decline, couldn't bear to see it and took over the factory personally after its privatization.

Today, this aged Min Nan Shui Xian Oolong tea stands as a flavorful tribute to the factory's storied past and the enduring legacy of traditional Chinese tea-making.