Southern Fujian Oolong Collection--8 unique historical flavors 100g

The production of Oolong tea in the Southern Fujian region dates back to the 17th century, with a wide variety of Oolong teas. Among them, the famous Tie Guan Yin and Zhangping Shui Xian have been officially recognized as part of China’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
This curated collection showcases oolong varieties discovered and cultivated in Southern Fujian, offering a glimpse into its evolving tea history and distinct flavor profiles. Whether you’re a seasoned tea drinker or a curious explorer, this selection lets you experience the true essence of Southern Fujian oolong.

The selection includes:
Qingxiang Tieguanyin (Light Aroma Tieguanyin)* 3 bags* 5 g
Nongxiang Tieguanyin (Strong Aroma Tieguanyin) * 3 bags* 5 g
Qingxiang Huangjingui (Light Aroma Huangjingui)* 3 bags* 5 g
Zhangping Shuixian (Pressed Shuixian from Zhangping)* 3 bags* 5 g
Yongchun Fo Shou (Yongchun Buddha’s Hand, Fruity Aroma)* 2 bags* 5 g
Qingxiang Baiya Qilan (Light Aroma Baiya Qilan)* 2 bags* 5 g
Nongxiang Meizhan (Strong Aroma Meizhan)* 2 bags* 5 g
Qingxiang Daye Oolong (Light Aroma Big Leaf Oolong)* 2 bags* 5 g

Processing Time: May 2024

Best Before Date: 36 months

Southern Fujian （Minnan）Oolong Tea: A Flavor for Every Era

1. Origins (Kangxi Period, Qing Dynasty)
Anxi is the birthplace of Minnan Oolong tea. During the Qing Dynasty's Kangxi period, a Yongchun monk grafted Anxi tea plants with native citron trees, creating the unique Yongchun Fo Shou tea, known for its distinctive fruity aroma and mineral depth.

2. Golden Age (from Qianlong to Xianfeng Periods, Qing Dynasty)
In the 18th century, Minnan Oolong entered its golden age. Wang Shiran from Anxi discovered a rare tea tree and made tea from it, which was presented to Emperor Qianlong. The tea was named Tie Guan Yin, due to its "iron-like weight" and "Guanyin-like shape." With its bold flavor and growing demand in Southeast Asia, it became a major export tea.
In the Xianfeng period, Anxi tea farmers selected and cultivated the  Huang Jin Gui. Known for its osmanthus-like fragrance, it became a symbol of Minnan’s high-aroma Oolong teas.

3. Transformation (Late 19th to Early 20th Century)
To meet the needs of overseas markets, Minnan tea farmers developed Mei Zhan and Da Ye Oolong. Meanwhile, Zhangping Shui Xian evolved its unique "square tea cake" shape, becoming the only compressed Oolong tea.
Mei Zhan: Noted for fruity sweetness and strong infusions
Da Ye Oolong: Known for its thick texture and caramel notes, great for blending
Zhangping Shui Xian: Complex fragrance with intertwined orchid and osmanthus notes, smooth and refreshing taste.

4. Innovation (Beginning of the 20th century)
As technology advanced, Minnan Oolong entered a new era.  In the 1980s, Pinghe County discovered Bai Ya Qi Lan, celebrated for its crisp orchid aroma.

Unique Crafting Characteristics:

• The fermentation level is typically between 10% and 25%, making it a lightly fermented Oolong tea.
• The repeated rolling and wrapping for the Shaping process is a key feature that distinguishes Minnan Oolong from other Oolong teas, shaping its unique appearance.
• Multiple rounds of slow roasting at low heat are used to enhance the tea's aroma.
• The leaves undergo multiple cycles of shaking and resting to achieve the perfect balance of "three reds and seven greens" in the leaf base.

How to Brew Minnan Oolong?
1. Choose the Right Teaware
White porcelain gaiwan – Best for lightly oxidized, lightly roasted oolongs, as it preserves delicate floral notes.
Yixing clay teapot – Ideal for richer, heavily roasted or charcoal-roasted oolongs, enhancing depth and smoothness.
2. Water Temperature Matters
Use boiling water (100°C / 212°F) for full aroma and body.
Water below 90°C (194°F) results in weaker flavor and muted fragrance.
3. Tea-to-Water Ratio
7–8g of tea for a 110ml gaiwan (about ⅓ full).
Standard ratio: 1:15 (tea to water)—adjust based on preference.
4. Use the Right Water
Soft, slightly alkaline spring water or purified water is best.
Avoid tap water with high mineral content, as it can mute the tea’s natural flavors.
5. Preheat Your Teaware
Rinse the gaiwan and cups with boiling water before brewing.
This warms the vessels and prevents temperature shock, allowing the aroma to bloom fully.
6. Wake Up the Tea (Rinse Infusion)
Pour boiling water over the leaves and immediately discard (within 10 seconds).
This removes any impurities and "wakes up" the leaves for optimal flavor release.
7. Proper Pouring Technique
Pour water gently along the inner wall of the gaiwan.
This helps the leaves unfurl evenly and enhances the fragrance.
8. First Infusion Timing
7–15 seconds for the first steep:
Lightly roasted teas need a shorter steep.
Heavily roasted teas can steep slightly longer.
9. Subsequent Infusions
Increase steep time by 5–10 seconds per infusion.
High-quality oolong can last 7–10 brews, with longer-lasting flavor in premium-grade teas.
10. Drain Completely Between Steeps
Always pour out all the liquid after each infusion.
This prevents oversteeping, which can lead to bitterness or astringency in later brews.