Oolong Tea

Oolong tea, like all other teas, comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant.  The actual method of processing the leaves is what differentiates oolong tea from other teas.  Oolong leaves are uniquely processed under the sun and oxidized before curling and twisting.  The leaves are processed directly after picking, first under direct strong sunlight and then they are placed in baskets and shaken, bruising the leaves.   Oxidation then begins and the leaves are spread out to dry.  After a short oxidation period, the leaves are fired to stop oxidation.  Traditionally the leaves were fired in hot woks very quickly leaving crisp dry leaves.


Some tea companies have decided to change the name "Oolong" to "Wu Long" in order to promote the supposed rareness and weight loss benefits of this tea.  Oolong tea is not rare nor does it produce significant weight loss benefits over any other variety of tea.  Drinking tea does speed up your metabolism slightly and it is an excellent supplement to a healthy lifestyle, but a healthy diet and exercise are still required.  Any website claiming that tea will replace exercise and a healthy diet are trying to fool you! 

There are different varieties of oolong, including darker and lighter leaves.  Each comes with its own unique brewing method.  In general, lighter oolongs should be brewed at approxiately 180 degrees for five minutes, while darker oolongs should be brewed in boiling water (212 degrees) for approximately five to seven minutes.  Another unique aspect of Oolong teas is that while some teas can only be steeped once, many believe that oolong gets better on the second, third and even fourth steep!  Experiment with your oolongs to discover how you like it best!

Passion Fruit Oolong

Above is a delicious passion fruit oolong that we carry....You will love its smell, but not as much as its taste!!