茶

Oolong

Partially oxidized teas celebrated for their balance of flavor

What Is Oolong?


Oolong tea (乌龙茶) occupies the space between green and black tea. Rather than being fully unoxidized like green tea or fully oxidized like black tea, oolongs can range anywhere from lightly to heavily oxidized, creating one of the widest flavor spectrums in the world of tea. Depending on the cultivar and processing, an oolong may be floral and buttery, fruity and honey-like, or rich, roasted, and nutty.

Most traditional oolongs originate from China and Taiwan, with famous producing regions including Fujian, Guangdong, and the mountains of Taiwan. Because of the incredible diversity within the category, oolong is often considered one of the most complex and rewarding styles of tea to explore. It is also one of the teas most commonly brewed using the Gongfu method, where many short infusions reveal different layers of flavor over time.