Taiwan Oolong Teas
A partially oxidized tea with a remarkable range of style, aroma and flavor.
Teas can be grouped by how much oxidation the leaves go through during production. At one end are non-oxidized teas such as green tea; at the other are fully oxidized teas such as black tea. Oolong tea is a partially oxidized tea that sits in between.
Oolong is produced mainly in Taiwan and in China’s Fujian and Guangdong provinces, and Taiwan makes up roughly a quarter of the world’s oolong production.
In Taiwan, oolong oxidation can range from about 10% to 70%, which is why oolong offers tea drinkers such a wide choice of styles, aromas and flavors. Taiwan’s oolong teas fall broadly into these categories:
| Type of Tea | Oxidation Level |
|---|---|
| BaoZhong oolong | 10 – 15% |
| High Mountain oolong | 10 – 20% |
| TungTing oolong – current style | 20 – 30% |
| TungTing oolong – traditional | 30 – 40% |
| BaoHao oolong (aka Oriental Beauty) | 60 – 70% |
* You can see examples of each category on our All Products page.
What is oxidation?
During tea making, withered leaves soften as water evaporates and their cell walls break down. The leaves’ inner contents — especially tea polyphenols and enzymes — are released and react with oxygen in the air. A chain of chemical reactions follows and slowly transforms the leaves. Once the desired level is reached, the leaves are quickly heated to stop the enzymes and halt the process.
Fragrant teas such as BaoZhong and High Mountain oolong are usually given less oxidation to keep the natural aroma of the leaf. Medium and higher oxidation coaxes out more complexity and depth of flavor.
Oxidation is only part of the story. An oolong’s aroma, flavor and complexity also depend on the tea plant’s variety or cultivar, where and how it grows, the drying process, the degree and style of roasting — and above all, the PEOPLE who make it. Tea leaves rely on the skill and sensitivity of artisan tea makers to show their full wonder.
How to Order
Interested in one of our teas?
We do not take online checkout. Browse our teas and brewing tips here, then email us at info@taiwanteaconnection.com — we will be happy to take care of your order personally.