Alishan Oolong 3 (Oolong from Alishan Mountain)

Alishan Oolong: The Emerald Pearl of Taiwan

Alishan Oolong is one of the most famous Taiwanese oolongs, named after the Alishan mountain range where it is grown. This tea is valued all over the world for its unique taste and aroma, as well as for its beneficial effects on the body.

Alishan is one of the most famous Taiwanese oolongs and grows in the Ali Mountains of Chiayi County. These mountains have an unusually picturesque area with beautiful mountain waterfalls, exotic reserves and the famous railway running through the forest. Tea plantations are located at an altitude of 2700 meters in difficult places with specific soil and changeable climate. Tea grown in such conditions is highly valued precisely for its unique taste and aroma. The harvest is collected all year round, but the most delicious is considered to be the winter and spring harvest. Only the first three leaves are taken for production. Then, after the drying process at a temperature of + 250-300 ° C, fermentation begins. Since only the edges of the leaf are subjected to intensive processing without damaging the structure of its main part, there is no bitterness in Alishan oolong and all the useful substances are completely preserved.

The history of Alishan tea goes back to ancient times and is about 400 years old. According to Chinese legends and traditions, it was during this period that it first appeared at the tea ceremony of Chinese mandarins, collected on the mountain of the same name on the island of Taiwan. Only high-ranking guests of honor were treated to it. Gradually, the fame of Alishan tea reached the rich countries of Saudi Arabia, India and Western Asia, where it is still very popular. Later, the aristocratic oolong was brought to the royal palace of Great Britain and took priority place at tea parties. The indescribable taste, combining shades of red and green tea, is also appreciated by gourmets of our time.

Features of cultivation and production

• High Altitude Cultivation: Alishan tea plantations are located at an altitude of 1,500-2,600 meters above sea level. The mountain climate with large daily temperature differences and abundant rainfall creates ideal conditions for growing tea bushes.
• Tea tree variety: The main variety for the production of Alishan Oolong is Chin Shin (Green Heart Oolong). This variety has unique characteristics that are transferred to the tea.
• Harvesting and Processing: The tea leaves are harvested by hand several times a year. Processing of Alishan Oolong includes withering, rolling, fermentation and drying. Light fermentation (around 25%) gives the tea its characteristic golden-green color and floral aroma.

Taste and aroma

Alishan Oolong has a soft, sweet taste with light floral and fruity notes. The aroma of the tea is rich, with hints of honey, creaminess and nuts. The aftertaste is long, pleasant, with a slight sweetness.

Beneficial properties

• Rich in antioxidants: Protects the body's cells from damage.
• Improves digestion: Promotes normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Tones the body: Increases energy levels and improves concentration.
• Calms the nervous system: Helps cope with stress and improve sleep.

How to brew Alishan Oolong

• Water temperature: 85-90°C.
• Brewing time: First brew – 30-40 seconds, subsequent brews – to taste, you can increase the brewing time.
• Amount of tea: 3-5 grams of tea is enough for one brew.

Alishan Oolong Varieties

There are several varieties of Alishan Oolong, which differ in harvest time and taste characteristics. For example:

• Spring Alishan: Fresh, floral aroma, soft taste.
• Autumn Alishan: Richer flavor with nutty undertones.