The next tea variety of tea to review following along from least processed to most processed is Oolong Tea.
Oolong Tea however, is not straightforward to classify on a processed scale as it can go through different levels of oxidisation, depending on the final tea result desired. Although it would commonly sit as more processed than White and Green Tea but less so than Black and Pu’reh.
History of Oolong Tea
The origins, of the delightfully sounding ,Oolong Tea (or sometimes known as Wulong Tea) are not well documented, not at least compared to their Green Tea Counterpart.
There are sources tracing Oolong back to the Ming Dynasty (The Ming Dynasty ruled China from 1368- 1644). It is believed that Oolong Tea was founded, accidentally, when Green Tea was being processed and the leaves were left out to wither too long and oxidised longer than they should.
Oolong, translates from Chinese, as Black Dragon. Oolong Tea supposedly gained its name from its founder, a dark-skinned hunter who was named Dragon, and nicknamed Black Dragon.
Legend tells of the story that Dragon, who was out hunting one day, was carrying tea leaves within his bag. As he was out hunting the tea he was carrying was left too long and began to ferment, oxidise and bruise, due to his vigorous pursuit.
Upon his return the tea leaves were removed from his pack and infused with water- the people, who shared this tea found it to be very fragrant and highly enjoyable. Thus this new variant was hence forth to bare his name.
Whether the story behind the name is correct, I do hope so because it makes for an interesting origin, what is known is that Oolong Tea goes through all the processing stages of withering and drying but is only partially oxidised- anywhere between 10% (Green Oolong) up to 80% (Dark Oolong).
Oolong Tea is primarily produced in the Anxi County, Fujian province China, and has became known for producing some of the best Oolong Teas. It was later introduced to Taiwan in the 19th century by Fujian travellers, and now Taiwan Oolong is a highly regarded tea.
Preparing Oolong Tea
Once the leaves are plucked, they are initially withered outside on mats placed in the sun, the leaves are then taken indoors to be withered for circa 8 hours . The utilising of both outdoor and indoor withering allows for the leaves to develop floral notes.
Following the withering process the leaves are poured into large baskets and vigorously shaken to break down the cells to start the oxidizing process.
Oolong Tea can also be rolled and twisted before drying or balling.
Oolong is a unique tea whose flavour can range from similar to Green Tea through to Black Tea flavourings, depending on the degree of oxidation undertaken.
Oolong is a semi fermented/ oxidised tea whereas White and Green tea are not Oxidised, Black tea is fully oxidised whereas Oolong sits somewhere between these 2 extremes.
Types of Oolong Tea
Wuyi Oolongs: Known as Yancha or “rock oolongs,” and are a distinguished category of Oolong which are grown in the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province- a UNESCO World Heritage site which is known for its rocky, rugged terrain and mineral rich soils. The rocky environment the tea is grown in contributes to the distinct Wuyi Oolong flavour.
Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe): This is one of the most famous Wuyi Oolong, it’s name is derived from the large, dark leaves of the tea tree. Known for its rich flavour of mineral and roasted notes.
Tie Luo Han (Iron Arhat): Has a strong and bold flavour with a distinct mineral and roasted taste with a complex aroma.
Bai Ji Guan (White Rooster Crest): renowned for its distinctively and large shaped leaves with a taste profile that includes fruity, nutty and sweet notes with a hint of spiciness.
Wuyi oolongs are often roasted over charcoal or wood fires. The roasting process is essential in developing their signature smoky and mineral characteristics. Differing roasting processes and levels can lead to differing flavours within the tea.
Anxi County, Fujian Province Oolongs: Anxi County also has a rich history of Oolong Tea production. The most renowned Oolongs from this region are:
Tie Guan Yin– one of the most celebrated Chinese oolongs, it is typically a lightly oxidized Oolong Tea. This preserves the tea’s greenness while still developing a nuanced flavour profile. It is known for its orchid-like floral aroma, with a subtle vegetal sweetness. It has a refreshing, smooth finish.
How to brew Oolong Tea
Quantity of Tea-2g/ 100ml (Strip), 0.8g/100ml (ball)- Oolong needs space to unfurl so you don’t want to use as much for rolled/ balled Oolong compared to strip/ twisted Oolong.
Temperature– 80-90 oC
Steeping Time– Brewing Oolong is more of an art than a science- you will see some brands recommending around120 secs (2-3mins), which provides great results- you can then reinfuse at shortened or longer periods, as short as 20 seconds- the length of time will change the flavour so the length is really to the drinkers experience. Go ahead and experiment with what suits you best.
Should you Rinse Tea– It is advisable
- Rinsing/ Washing tea- cover the tea with about an inch of water to ‘rinse/wash’ it and then discard the water after about 10 seconds
Take with Milk– No
Caffeine
Oolong tea contains between 29 and 53 mg of caffeine per serving (230ml). For context White Tea, the tea perceived with the lowest levels of caffeine, contains between 32 and 37 mg per serving (230ml).
Health Benefits of Oolong Tea
All teas contain both antioxidants and L-theanine (an amino acid unique to the Camellia Sinensis plant ). However, due to the way Oolong is processed Oolong tea can have up to as much as 9.2 percent of its dry weight from L-theanine, compared to lower levels contained within other teas- therefore the health benefits in Oolong may be enhanced.
1. Oolong Tea for Weight Loss
There is a belief that drinking Oolong tea may have an effect on weight loss. Chinese medicine for centuries has supposedly used Oolong Tea for weight loss purposes.
It seems that antioxidants, catechins and polyphenols in Oolong Tea help the body metabolize fat better and more efficiently. Coupled with the energy boosts provided by caffeine Oolong Tea can aide in weight loss.
2. Oolong Tea and Stress
Tea is renowned for helping reduce stress- how often when you are having a hard or bad day a friend, colleague or whoever would suggest having a chat and a cuppa! So there would seem to be scientific basis behind this common gesture.
It is understood that the calming effect comes from the amino acid L-theanine- which helps the mind relax, it also reduces the stimulating effects of caffeine. It just so happens that Oolong Tea contains high levels of L-theanine.
So not only is a cup of Oolong delicious it could also reduce your stress level!
3. Antioxidants
All teas are high in antioxidants, which aid in protecting the body from signs of aging and some illnesses.
And as Oolong is anywhere between 10-80% it can contain similar levels of anti-oxidants found in black tea but also similar levels of catechins contained in Green tea. Thus Oolong is filled with all the the good things tea has to offer.
4. Helps keep your Teeth Healthy
Oolong Tea contains antibacterial properties which are effective against some bacterias found within the mouth. Thus drinking Oolong Tea can promote good oral hygiene.
Oolong also contains levels of calcium and fluoride, which is beneficial for keeping a ‘perfect smile’ as these can help fight tooth decay, strengthen enamel, as well as preventing cavities.
Final Thoughts
Oolong is a fascinating tea to start to experiment with, as the oxidisation ranges from between 10-80% you have a full range of tastes and flavourings to experience. The lower the oxidisation the more similar the flavouring’s to that of a Green tea, with a lighter and more flora aroma. Whereas a near 80% oxidised Oolong has notes more of a Black Tea- with a more full bodied flavour.
If you try an Oolong and don’t enjoy it, or even if you do enjoy it, I implore you to then try others along the different scales of oxidisation, so as you can really experience the full array of flavourings Oolong offers.
Go on give it a whirl- you deserve it!
