Bai Ya Qi Lan Fujian Pinghe Oolong Tea

Type: Oolong

Packaging: Bag

Origin: China

Description: Bai Ya Qi Lan is produced in Pinghe County of South Fujian. According to legend, during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty (1735-1795), a special tea tree grew at the "water fountain" at the foot of Da Qin Mountain Pinghe County. The newly sprouted buds and leaves were white and green. So the fresh leaves were picked to make oolong tea. It was found that the tea had a special orchid scent, so the tea tree was named "Bai Ya Qi Lan (White Bud Orchid)" and the Oolong tea made was also called "Bai Ya Qi Lan". It has been grown by asexual reproduction for over 250 years.

 

Typical of the Bai Ya Qilan Oolong tea is the tightly rolled spherical shape of the tea leaves. Both appearance and taste are reminiscent of Tie Guan Yin Oolong tea, which also comes from South Fujian. These similarities on the one hand are due to parallels in the processing of both types of tea. On the other hand, they result from both cultivar’s shared terroir. For example, the overwhelming honey sweetness of the intensely golden yellow cup is an aromatic characteristic of both teas. It’s especially the delicate multiple roasting that makes Bai Ya Qi Lan Oolong tea gain in complexity and depth.

 

This Bai Ya Qi Lan was picked and made in Da Qin Shan, Pinghe County. It was medium oxidized and burned with charcoal at low heat which explains the warm and creamy smell like roasted chestnuts. The tea tastes sweet, fruity and mineral.

 

Brewing Guide: place 1 tsp. of loose leaf in a tea maker or infuser (1 tsp. per cup). Heat water to 185°F, steep for 3-5 minutes then simply enjoy!