Taiwan is renowned for its high mountain oolongs grown in a region that spans thru several counties in the center of this small island. Nantou, the only landlocked county in Taiwan, is the largest producer of high mountain oolong teas.
High mountain oolongs are harvested only three times a year. The altitude and climatic conditions cause the teas to grow more slowly than their lower grown counterparts which are harvested up to six times per year. Tung Ting grown on Dong Ding Mountain is one example of a Nantou county high mountain oolong tea that yieldssuperb flavor and numerous infusions.
OOLONG ARTISTRY
Tea masters are artisans who ply their trade after many years of practice and apprenticeship passed down from one generation to the next. The varied characteristics of oolong teas are created by the tea master’s watchful eye closely monitoring the length of oxidation, careful bruising of the leaf, rolling (depending on the type of oolong), proper drying and every minuet aspect of production.
Tung Ting Oolong is next best oolong tea available in tea bag form after Ten Wu oolong. Tung-Ting Oolong is a green oolong tea which means it has been baked less than dark Oolong teas. Leaves for this tea are grown in the Tung Ting region of Taiwan at an elevation of about 2,500 feet (760 m). The Tung-Ting region is usually covered by fog and clouds every morning and late afternoon which provide good growing conditions for tea leaves made into oolong. When brewed, it produces a golden-green hue, a mild smooth floral taste, a strong sweet flowery aroma, and a pleasant lasting aftertaste. Oolong tea is most commonly enjoyed in Taiwan and southern China, and is the tea of choice in many Chinese restaurants.