Oolong, also known as “Wu long” in Chinese, is a separate category of tea that falls between green tea and black tea. Unlike the white, green or black teas, oolong is partially fermented during the process which can go anywhere from 15% to 85% of fermentation resulting in different types of oolong teas. The Majority of oolong teas are produced in China and Taiwan. Oolong tea is very popular in Asian countries and very well-loved among tea drinkers. As you may know, all types of teas (white, green, oolong and black) come from the same plant called Camellia Sinensis – a warm weather evergreen. How the tea leaves are processed and their level of contact with oxygen determines the resulting types of tea. During the fermentation process, tea leaves undergo natural chemical reactions and create distinctive colors, bodies and taste characteristics.
Among these 4 types of teas, oolong involves the most technical, skillful and experienced labor to process. Creating Oolong tea is considered a work of art because the amount of oxidation and different rolling methods directly impact the end result of the flavor, color and taste. Therefore, oolong is usually a priced tea and is greatly treasured in Asia because of its complex yet unique process.
There is a wide variety of oolong flavors which vary according to the degree of oxidation and rolling methods. In general, a light or green oolong is a lightly fermented tea which produces a mild flowery taste with a pale green infusion, for example Jade Oolong. A medium body finish oolong is a semi-fermented tea that yields an invigorating flavor with a sweet aftertaste such as Iron Goddess of Mercy and Water Sprite. A strong or dark oolong is a highly fermented tea like the Oriental Beauty and Red Hood (also known as Dai Hao Pao in Chinese), these teas have a strong aromatic flavor with a delicate lingering taste and they produce a deep amber brew. So if you are a white tea or green tea drinker, you are likely to enjoy the light oolong and if you are a black tea drinker, you are likely to enjoy a medium or dark oolong. Go visit your local tea shop and try a oolong tea, you will be blown away by its variety and distinctive flavor!
Tea Blossom located in Scarsdale, New York proudly satisfies the needs of the tea drinking communities of Westchester county including White Plains, Rye, Larchmont, Bronxville and Hartsdale.