Ginseng Oolong
Tasting notes: honey, ginseng, 'Barbaris' candy
Ginseng oolong is a delightful fusion of tradition and vitality, offering the rich, floral depth of oolong tea with the energizing properties of ginseng. The flavors are sweet and lingering, with hints of honey and fresh herbs. The texture is smooth and creamy. The subtle earthiness of ginseng adds an invigorating touch, making this tea both soothing and revitalizing.
Tea character
Leaf aroma
fresh wood, sweet grass, sugared dry pineapple
Cup aroma
wet grass under the sun, dried fruits
Flavor
honey, ginseng, 'Barbaris' candy
Tea story
Long before it became a modern-day favorite, the harmonious blend of tea and ginseng was celebrated in ancient China, with references dating back to 741 BC in the text 《本草拾遗》. Yet, it was around 500 years ago that Ginseng Oolong ascended to its regal status as a tribute tea served exclusively to the emperor. Known as the 'King's Tea' or 'Orchid Beauty' (Lan Gui Ren), it was named after a beloved concubine of the Tang Dynasty.
Ginseng, known for its invigorating and restorative qualities, has been revered in traditional medicine for centuries. Paired with the smooth, creamy texture of oolong tea, this fusion creates a beverage that not only excites the taste buds but also energizes the body and mind. The oolong leaves are carefully selected, with some undergoing a light oxidation process to preserve their floral and honeyed undertones. Ginseng is then added in a careful balance, infusing the tea with a subtle yet distinct earthiness.
This tea's smooth texture, combined with a touch of sweetness and a lingering finish, provides a soothing yet revitalizing experience, perfect for those seeking balance and invigoration in a cup.
Tea Region | Alishan, Chiayi, Taiwan
Tea tree | Camellia sinensis sinensis
Cultivar | Chin Xin
Harvest | Spring, 2023
Picking & processing | up to the forth leaf
Almond cookies
The nutty, buttery flavor of almond cookies complements the earthy, slightly sweet notes of Ginseng Oolong, creating a balanced pairing that highlights the tea's complexity.
Lightly grilled chicken with honey glaze
The mild sweetness and subtle char of grilled chicken enhance the tea’s herbal undertones, while the honey adds a touch of richness that echoes the ginseng’s natural sweetness.
Fresh mango slices
The juicy, tropical sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with the tea's smooth texture, adding a refreshing contrast to the ginseng's slight bitterness.
Saffron rice
The aromatic and slightly floral flavor of saffron rice brings out the more delicate notes of the tea, while its light, fluffy texture provides a perfect backdrop for the tea’s more robust elements.
