Unroasted Dong Ding Oolong Tea Leaves
Origin: Lugu, Nantou, Taiwan
Altitude: 900–1100 meters
Oxidation: 15-30%
Cultivar: Qing Xin Oolong (青心烏龍)
Harvest: Spring 2025
This Dong Ding Oolong is a tea steeped in history, its name derived from the legendary peak where it grows. While many believe "Dong Ding" to be a brand, it is in fact the name of a mountain in Lugu, Nantou. Its name has a fascinating origin in the local Taiwanese dialect: "Dong" (凍) refers to the verb for raking the soil with one's toes, while "Ding" (頂) means mountain peak. This name came from the treacherous, slippery paths of the mountain; farmers had to rely on their toes to grip the soil, moving step by step to reach the top. This unique terroir has made it the birthplace and a classic symbol of Taiwanese oolong tea.
A benchmark for quality, Dong Ding Oolong's defining features include a mellow, full-bodied mouthfeel, excellent durability for multiple infusions, and a rich, long-lasting aftertaste. The creation of this tea is a complex, time-honored process, requiring a meticulous chain of steps: picking, withering, tossing, pan-firing, rolling, and packaging. Each stage demands exceptional skill and unwavering care from the tea master, a testament to the artisan's dedication. When brewed, the tea liquor is a brilliantly clear golden yellow, releasing a pure, clean aroma.
Brewing Yield
- Each 25g package, brewed with 3g of tea leaves, offers up to 8 separate brewing sessions.
- Each serving can be re-steeped 2-3 times, allowing you to explore the tea's evolving layers of flavor, for a total of 16-24 cups.
Flavor Notes
- Aroma: Elegant floral notes (osmanthus, lily)
- Taste: Smooth and rounded, with a subtle fruity sweetness
- Finish: A refreshing, cooling sensation with a long-lasting, pleasant aftertaste.