Oolong Tea: The Brew That Bridges the Gap between Green and Black Tea

Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess) Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that has been enjoyed for centuries. Known for its rich and complex flavor profile, oolong tea is often described as a combination of the lightness of green tea and the richness of black tea. Unlike green and black teas, oolong tea is partially oxidized, giving it a flavor profile that is somewhere in between the two.

In this blog, we will explore oolong tea’s history, characteristics, types, and health benefits. We will also describe how to brew the perfect cup of oolong tea with Qi Aerista Smart Tea Brewer.

What is Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea is a partially fermented tea that falls somewhere between green tea and black tea on the spectrum. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant and is known for its unique flavor profile, which can range from light and floral to rich and smoky. The level of oxidation in oolong tea can vary greatly, depending on the specific type of oolong tea.

History of Oolong Tea

Oolong tea has a long and rich history that dates back to the Tang dynasty (618-907). It was first produced in the Fujian province of China. It was during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) that oolong tea gained popularity, and its production spread to other regions of China.

The name "oolong" is derived from the Chinese name "wu long," which means "black dragon." The tea is named after the dark, twisted leaves that resemble the shape of a dragon.

Types of Oolong Tea

There are many types of oolong tea, which can vary greatly in flavor, aroma, and appearance. Here are some of the most common types of oolong tea:

1. Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess): This is one of the most popular types of oolong tea, with a floral aroma and a sweet, smooth taste.
2. Wuyi Rock (Yancha): This oolong tea is grown in the rocky soil of the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, which gives it a unique mineral taste and aroma.
3. Phoenix Dancong: This oolong tea is known for its fruity and floral aroma, and is often named after the specific fruit or flower it tastes like, such as orchid or lychee.
4. Oriental Beauty: This oolong tea is grown in Taiwan and has a unique honey-like taste and aroma.
5. Milk Oolong (Jin Xuan): This oolong tea is grown in Taiwan and has a creamy, milky taste and aroma.
6. Shui Xian (Water Spirit): This oolong tea is grown in Guangdong Province  and has a rich, earthy flavor with a slightly smoky aroma.
7. Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe): This oolong tea is grown in the Wuyi Mountains and has a deep, rich flavor with a roasted aroma.

These are just a few examples of the many types of oolong tea available, each with their own unique characteristics and qualities.

Processing of Oolong Tea

The processing of oolong tea involves several steps that are designed to partially oxidize the tea leaves, resulting in a unique and complex flavor profile. Here are the basic steps in oolong tea processing:

1. Withering: Freshly picked tea leaves are spread out and allowed to wilt for several hours, usually in the shade.
2. Tossing: The leaves are then tossed and bruised to break down the cell walls and release the enzymes that will start the oxidation process.
3. Oxidation: The leaves are spread out and left to partially oxidize, usually for several hours. This is the critical step in oolong tea processing that determines the final flavor and aroma of the tea.
4. Fixation: The oxidation process is stopped by heating the leaves in a hot pan or oven. This step also helps to dry the leaves and lock in their flavor and aroma.
5. Rolling: The leaves are rolled to shape them into tight, compact balls. This step also helps to break down the leaves further and release more flavor and aroma.
6. Drying: The rolled leaves are then dried in a hot oven or on a heated tray to remove any remaining moisture and lock in their final shape and flavor.

Depending on the specific type of oolong tea being produced, additional steps may be added or modified to achieve the desired flavor and aroma. The overall goal of oolong tea processing is to create a tea with a unique balance of sweetness, floral notes, and astringency that sets it apart from other types of tea.

Why is Oolong Tea So Special?

Oolong tea is special for several reasons. One of the main reasons is its unique flavor profile, which is somewhere in between green tea and black tea. This makes oolong tea perfect for those who prefer a more nuanced tea. Oolong tea is also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of flavors, such as lemon, mint, or ginger. Additionally, oolong tea is known for its numerous health benefits, which we will discuss in more detail later in this article.

Health Benefits of Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is not just delicious, it also has numerous health benefits. Research has shown that drinking oolong tea can help improve mental alertness, boost your immune system, and reduce your risk of heart disease. Oolong tea is also a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. Additionally, oolong tea has been shown to aid in weight loss and may even help lower your risk of certain types of cancer.

How to Brew Perfect White Tea with Qi Aerista

Brew Oolong Tea with Qi Aerista Smart Tea Brewer

Brewing the perfect cup of oolong tea with Qi Aerista Smart Tea Brewer is easy and straightforward. Here are some simple steps to follow: 

1. Start by adding 1 to 3 cups of water to the brewer’s pot.
2. Place your white tea leaves in the infuser basket. One teaspoon of tea leaves per cup of water added is a good starting point, but feel free to adjust to your liking.
3. Place the infuser basket onto the pot and close the lid.
4. Place the pot onto the base. Turn on the brewer.
5. Select the Oolong tea type and press BREW. The preset brewing temperature is 90°C/194°F. The preset brewing time is 3 minutes. You can adjust the settings on your Qi Aerista app.
6. Qi Aerista completes the brewing process automatically. It first heats the water to the target brewing temperature. Then the patented infusion system kicks in and brews the tea within the preset brewing time.
7. Once the brewing is done, tea leaves and finished tea will separate automatically. The tea will enter the keep warm mode for up to 60 minutes.
8. When ready, just pour out the tea and serve. Sit back and enjoy your perfect cup of oolong tea with Qi Aerista.

Oolong tea is a delicious and healthy beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. With its complex flavor profile and many potential health benefits, it is no wonder that oolong tea has become a popular choice among tea drinkers worldwide. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, oolong tea is the perfect choice for a refreshing and healthful beverage.