Delving into the Delicacies of Alishan Oolong Tea and Oriental Beauty Tea: Taiwan's Tea Treasures

Taiwan's rich tea culture is beautifully represented by two of its most revered teas: Alishan Oolong and Oriental Beauty Tea. Each tea offers a unique insight into the traditional tea-making techniques and environmental influences of Taiwan, showcasing distinct and enchanting flavours.

Alishan Oolong Tea

Originating from the high altitudes of the Alishan mountain range in Taiwan, Alishan Oolong is renowned for its exquisite quality and delicate flavour. The high elevation, coupled with a cool and misty climate, creates ideal conditions for growing the tea plants that yield tender leaves with a naturally sweet and floral aroma. Alishan Oolong is a lightly oxidized tea, producing a light golden infusion that is smooth and slightly creamy. It features subtle floral notes, predominantly of orchid, and a refreshing sweetness that lingers on the palate.

Oriental Beauty Tea

Oriental Beauty, also known as Dong Fang Mei Ren, is a highly oxidized oolong tea celebrated for its unique production story and the distinctive flavours that result from it. This tea is traditionally harvested in the Hsinchu County of Taiwan and is unique because its leaves are bitten by tea green leafhoppers. This insect interaction initiates a process in the tea leaves that heightens the production of natural sugars and antioxidants, leading to a richer and more complex flavour profile. Oriental Beauty exhibits a diverse colour palette in its leaves, ranging from silver to red, and brews into a deep amber colour. It offers a robust taste of ripe fruits and honey, with underlying notes of spice and a sweet finish.

Brewing Techniques

Both teas benefit from specific brewing techniques to maximize their flavour potential. Alishan Oolong Tea should be brewed at lower temperatures (around 85-90°C) to preserve its delicate floral notes. Short brewing times are recommended, with multiple infusions to enjoy the evolving flavours. Oriental Beauty, on the other hand, can handle slightly higher temperatures (90-95°C), which helps to release its fuller, richer flavours. Longer steeping times are suitable for this tea, allowing the complex notes of fruit and honey to fully develop.

Significance in Culture and Cuisine

Alishan Oolong and Oriental Beauty are more than just teas; they are a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to tea craftsmanship. Alishan Oolong is often enjoyed in both casual and formal settings, reflecting the serene beauty of its mountainous origins. Oriental Beauty is prized for its distinctive taste and the meticulous attention to detail required in its production, making it a favourite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Both Alishan Oolong and Oriental Beauty not only provide a window into the soul of Taiwan’s tea culture but also continue to enchant tea lovers globally with their distinct flavours and storied pasts. Whether sipped quietly at home or shared among friends, these teas offer a profound and enriching tea-drinking experience.