Tie Guan Yin Oolong Tea

Tieguanyin, also known as “Iron Goddess of Mercy,” is a premium variety of Chinese oolong tea renowned for its exquisite balance of floral aroma, complex flavor, and lingering sweetness. With a history spanning over 300 years, this tea embodies the artistry of traditional tea cultivation and processing.

Tea Profile

• Type: Partially oxidized oolong tea (semi-fermented).

• Origin: Anxi County, Fujian Province, China—a region celebrated for its ideal tea-growing conditions and rich tea culture.

• Cultivation Conditions:
  Grown at high elevations (600–1,000 meters) in mineral-rich red soil, with misty climates, abundant rainfall, and ample sunlight. These conditions impart a distinctive fragrance and complexity to the leaves.

• Harvest Seasons:
  Primarily harvested in spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). Spring harvests yield a fuller, sweeter cup, while autumn pickings are known for their intense aroma.

Flavor & Sensory Experience

• Appearance: Tightly rolled leaves that unfurl into vibrant, emerald-green brewed leaves.

• Aroma: Enticing notes of orchid, lilac, and fresh cream, with a hint of roasted nuts or honeyed sweetness depending on the roasting level.

• Taste: A smooth, layered palate with a perfect balance of floral freshness and delicate oxidation. Notes of ripe fruit, vanilla, and a subtle minerality lead to a sweet, lingering aftertaste (hui gan).

• Mouthfeel: Silky and rounded, with no astringency when brewed correctly.

Brewing Recommendations

1. Teaware: Use a porcelain gaiwan or Yixing clay teapot to enhance aroma retention.

2. Water Temperature: 90–95°C (194–203°F). Avoid boiling water to preserve subtle notes.

3. Leaf-to-Water Ratio: 5–6 grams of tea per 150ml of water.

4. Steeping Time:

   • First infusion: 20–30 seconds.

   • Subsequent infusions: Increase time by 10–15 seconds per brew.
     High-quality Tieguanyin can be steeped 6–8 times, revealing evolving flavors with each infusion.

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and polyphenols, Tieguanyin may aid digestion, boost metabolism, promote mental alertness, and support skin health. Its moderate caffeine content provides a gentle uplift without jitters.

Perfect For

• Tea enthusiasts exploring nuanced, aromatic oolongs.

• Moments of mindfulness and sharing with guests.

• Pair with light desserts, fresh fruits, or savory dim sum.

Experience the legacy of Anxi’s tea masters with every sip of Tieguanyin—a tea that marries nature’s elegance with human artistry.