Zhangping Shui Xian Oolong Tea

Tea Profile

1. Type: Lightly oxidized, compressed oolong tea.

2. Origin: Zhangping City, Fujian Province, China—a region blessed with high mountains, clean water, and a humid climate ideal for tea cultivation.

3. Cultivation Conditions:
   Grown at elevations of 500–800 meters in well-drained, acidic red soil. The area experiences abundant rainfall, frequent mist, and moderate temperatures, allowing the tea leaves to develop a rich aroma and nuanced flavor.

4. Harvest Seasons:
   Harvested mainly in spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). Spring tea offers a fresher, more floral profile, whereas the autumn harvest provides a more robust and aromatic experience.

5. Crafting process：

• Sun Withering: We gently sun-dry the leaves to soften them and begin developing their flavor, much like wilting greens for a salad.
• Air Drying: We then move the leaves indoors to cool and continue drying evenly.
• Tossing & Resting: This process forms the heart of oolong making. Our tea masters rhythmically toss the leaves in bamboo baskets to gently bruise the edges, then allow them to rest. They repeat this “toss and rest” cycle many times, as this careful oxidation creates the tea’s complex floral fragrance.
• Pan-Firing: We quickly heat the leaves in a wok to stop the oxidation, similar to a chef sautéing vegetables to lock in freshness.
• Kneading: Our masters gently roll the warm, pliable leaves by hand to shape them and release their natural oils.
• Re-firing & Re-kneading: We reheat and reroll the leaves to ensure perfect texture and flavor formation.
• Pressing into Shape: This unique step makes Zhangping Shui Xuan special! We press the tea into small, compact squares and wrap each in special paper, creating its iconic form.
• Charcoal Baking: Finally, we bake the tea cakes dry over low heat using traditional charcoal fires. This slow, careful process not only dries but also deepens the flavor and adds warmth, ensuring the tea ages beautifully.

Flavor & Sensory Experience

• Appearance: Compressed into small greenish-brown squares with visible whole leaves.

• Aroma: A captivating blend of fresh orchids, sweet cream, and a hint of vanilla and spice.

• Taste: Smooth and creamy with notes of lilac, honey, and a subtle minerality. The finish is sweet, clean, and long-lasting.

• Mouthfeel: Silky and rounded with low astringency.

Brewing Recommendations

1. Teaware: Use a porcelain gaiwan or a small Yixing teapot.

2. Water Temperature: 90–95°C (194–203°F).

3. Leaf-to-Water Ratio: One square (approx. 5–6g) per 120–150ml of water.

4. Steeping Time:

   • Rinse quickly with hot water to awaken the leaves.

   • First infusion: 20–30 seconds.

   • Add 10–15 seconds for each subsequent brew.

   • Can be steeped 6–8 times.

Health Benefits

Like other oolongs, Zhangping Shui Xian is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols. It may aid digestion, enhance mental focus, support metabolism, and promote skin health.

Perfect For

• Those who appreciate lightly oxidized oolongs with complex aromas.

• Daily tea drinking is due to its compressed form.

• Pair with light pastries, fruits, or mild cheeses.