Teapioca Lounge’s House Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that falls between green and black tea in terms of oxidation levels. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant used to produce green, black, and white teas. Oolong tea is known for its complex flavor profile, which can vary widely depending on factors such as the specific tea cultivar, growing conditions, and processing techniques.
The name “Oolong” is derived from the expression “Wu Long,” meaning “Black Dragon” in Chinese. According to legend, during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), a tea farmer was harvesting tea in his garden, but encountered a gigantic black dragon, which is a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture. Frightened by this sight, he ran off, leaving the tea harvest of the day at the dragon’s feet.
The next day, the tea farmer returned to his harvest and noticed the tea leaves he had left had a strange but fascinating coloration: green with golden tips. This tea was then named after the black dragon: Wu Long Tea, or Oolong Tea.
Recommended brewing instructions:
- 1 tsp dried tea leaves
- 190°F water
- 3-5 min steep time