According to a legend, this tea was growing on a cliff, too steep for humans to pick its leaves. So the farmers trained monkeys to climb up the cliffs and harvest the tea.
Tie Guan Yin Oolong Tea is produced by implementing the heavy tossing procedure and pan-frying at moderate temperatures. This unique technique makes Oolong tea form its signature green leaves with red edges.
Compared to other Chinese teas, the making process of Tie Guan Yin is the most complicated one, and the heavy tossing (yaoqing) is considered to be the most critical step. It is the key stage to form the Guan Yin Yun (观音韵) and the distinctive floral fragrance of Tie Guan Yin that makes it unique.
The monkey-picked Tie Guan Yin is baked slowly over a soft fire, in three steps, each lasting for no longer than two minutes. It’s a fully fermented tea with smooth, honey-peach and baked flavor.
• Place of Origin: Lishan Mountain, Taiwan
• Harvest date: May 2019
• Plucking Standard: One bud and two or three leaves
• Dry Leaf: Rolled into a semi-ball; black-green color
• Aroma: Slightly floral and roasted
• Taste: Fruity and roasted, with a sweet finish
• Caffeine: Low