From Shiding, Wenshan, Taiwan. A light oolong with such natural floral aroma and delicate taste. It is similar to Baochong in oxidation level, which means it’s green. The color is a light greenish yellow tint akin to green tea. It smells as one would expect of a tea, but fresher and less astringent than the Tieguanyin Light Roast. The taste has a sweet undertone like a flower petal. (But I also had peach chapstick on at the time, which must have affected things quite a bit…)
Nonetheless, this is definitely one of my top favorites. These others include:
– Ginseng oolong from the Golden Tea Shop
– Yellow Gold (Chinese oolong)
– Darjeeling First Flush (Indian black)
– Royal Courtesan (Taiwanese oolong)
– Fragrant Leaf Green Pu’er (Chinese black)
Description of Buddha’s Hand from Teance: “One of the rarest, almost extinct varietals of Oolong, a sub-varietal of Baochong. […] Extremely large leaves deserved of its namesake, this unusual varietal is being preserved through our efforts by purchasing the entire crop each season.”
I used to say that I prefer Chinese oolongs to Taiwanese oolongs, but I take it all back, this is my favorite oolong so far. And it goes well with peach chapstick. 😉
To steep: (per teaspoon in 1 small gaiwan) 205 Fahrenheit water, 20-30 seconds.