Dong Ding Premium Oolong Tea

Dong Ding Oolong tea is a renowned Taiwanese tea that is highly regarded for its distinctive flavor, aroma, and craftsmanship. Originating from the Dong Ding (Frozen Summit) mountain in Nantou County, central Taiwan, this tea has a rich history and is beloved by tea enthusiasts around the world.

Its history began in the 1860s when the original tea trees were brought from China's Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province. The climate of Nantou County provides a unique opportunity to grow tea of ​​the highest quality.

Characteristics

1. Flavor and Aroma:
   - Sweet and Floral: Dong Ding Oolong is known for its sweet, floral aroma, often reminiscent of orchids or gardenias.
   - Nutty and Buttery: The flavor profile includes notes of butter, nuts, and caramel, providing a rich and satisfying taste.
   - Balanced Roast: Depending on the level of roasting, it can also exhibit toasty and slightly woody undertones, which add depth to its flavor.

2. Appearance:
   - Tightly Rolled Leaves: The tea leaves are tightly rolled into small, dark green balls, which unfurl upon brewing to reveal whole leaves.
   - Golden Liquor: The brewed tea typically has a bright, golden-yellow color, which is visually appealing and indicative of its quality.

3. Cultivation and Harvest:
   - High Elevation: Grown at elevations between 600 to 1000 meters, Dong Ding benefits from the cool, misty climate and rich soil of the region.
   - Spring and Winter Harvests: The best Dong Ding Oolong is usually harvested in the spring and winter, with the spring harvest being particularly prized for its fresh and vibrant flavors.

4. Processing:
   - Semi-Oxidized: Dong Ding Oolong undergoes partial oxidation, typically around 15-30%, which places it between green and black teas in terms of oxidation.
   - Traditional Methods: The processing involves withering, rolling, oxidation, and roasting. The level of roasting can vary, with traditional Dong Ding often being medium to high roasted.

Tasting Notes

When brewing Dong Ding Oolong, you can expect:
- Initial Infusion: A rich, buttery texture with prominent floral and sweet notes.
- Subsequent Infusions: More complex layers emerge, including nutty and caramel flavors, with a smooth, lingering finish.
- Aroma: A fragrant bouquet that combines floral, sweet, and toasty elements.

Health Benefits

Dong Ding Oolong tea offers several health benefits, such as:
- Antioxidants: Rich in catechins and polyphenols that help fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
- Metabolism Boost: May aid in weight management by enhancing metabolic rate.
- Digestive Health: Known to improve digestion and promote gut health.
- Relaxation and Focus: Contains theanine, which promotes relaxation and mental clarity.

Brewing Tips

Chinese Gongfu Method (5oz / 150ml):

1. Tea Leaf-to-Water Ratio: Use approximately 7 grams of Dong Ding Oolong Tea for 150 ml (5 oz) of water. This ratio allows for a higher concentration suitable for Gongfu brewing.

2. Water Temperature: Heat water to around 85-90°C (185-194°F). This temperature range helps to bring out the nuanced flavors of the oolong tea without scalding the leaves.

3. Brewing Time:
   - First Infusion: Steep for about 30-40 seconds. This initial short steeping time allows the tightly rolled leaves of Dong Ding to begin unfurling and releasing their flavors gradually.
   - Subsequent Infusions: Increase the steeping time slightly for each subsequent infusion. For example, steep for 40-50 seconds for the second infusion, then adjust based on taste preference. Dong Ding Oolong Tea can typically be steeped multiple times (4-5 infusions or more) using this method, with each infusion revealing different aspects of the tea's flavor profile.

Cup Method (8.8oz / 250ml):

1. Tea Leaf-to-Water Ratio: Adjust based on personal preference for tea strength. 

2. Water Temperature: Use water just below boiling, around 95°C (203°F).

3. Brewing Time:
   - Steep Time: Steep Dong Ding Oolong Tea for 3-4 minutes. This longer steeping time allows the tea leaves to fully unfurl and release their flavors into the larger volume of water, resulting in a rich and aromatic cup of tea.

Cultural Significance

Dong Ding Oolong is a staple of Taiwanese tea culture and is celebrated for its quality and traditional production methods. It is often associated with tea competitions and is a benchmark for judging other Taiwanese Oolong teas.

In summary, Dong Ding Oolong tea is a distinguished Taiwanese tea that offers a delightful and rich drinking experience. Its unique combination of floral, nutty, and buttery flavors, along with its traditional processing methods, makes it a favorite among tea connoisseurs worldwide.

• Collected: 2023
• Origin: Nantou County, Taiwan
• Taste: Light to medium oxidation gives the tea nutty notes and a mild caramel flavor.