Oolong Tea

What is Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea is a fascinating and complex type of tea that sits between green tea and black tea in terms of oxidation. Made from the Camellia sinensis tea plant , just like all true teas, oolong tea undergoes a meticulous process of withering, bruising, and partial oxidation, followed by roasting. This delicate craftsmanship results in a wide range of flavours, from floral and creamy to rich and toasty.

Oolong is often called the " black dragon " tea, a reference to its distinctive twisted or rolled leaves that resemble a dragon’s shape. Unlike green tea, which is minimally oxidised, or tea and black varieties that are fully oxidised, oolong tea falls somewhere in between. Depending on the processing method, it can be lightly oxidised (closer to green tea) or more heavily oxidised, developing deeper, roasted notes similar to black tea. This range of oxidation gives oolong an incredible depth of flavour, making it a favourite among tea enthusiasts.

The Unique Characteristics of Oolong Tea

One of the most distinctive features of oolong tea is its ability to evolve over multiple infusions. A single batch of high-quality oolong made from carefully selected tea leaves can be steeped several times, with each infusion revealing new layers of taste and aroma. Some oolong teas have sweet, floral notes reminiscent of orchids, while others offer nutty, caramelised undertones.

Another unique aspect is the shape of the tea leaves. Some oolongs are tightly rolled into small pearls, which slowly unfurl in hot water, releasing their full flavour. Others have long, twisted leaves that expand gracefully during brewing. This variation in processing techniques contributes to oolong tea’s incredible diversity and complexity. Many of the finest oolongs come from high mountainous regions, where the altitude and climate conditions enhance the tea’s delicate aromas and smooth finish.

Different Brands of Oolong Teas

At MaxiCoffee, we offer a selection of high-quality oolong teas from renowned tea houses, each bringing its own expertise and craftsmanship. Here are two standout brands:

• Dammann Frères – A prestigious French tea house with a long tradition of blending exquisite teas. Their Oolong Caramel is a perfect choice for those who enjoy smooth, sweet, and slightly toasty flavours, while Oolong Jardin du Luxembourg offers a refined mix of floral and fruity notes, inspired by the elegance of Parisian gardens.
• Comptoir Français du Thé – This tea brand is celebrated for its high-quality, carefully sourced teas, offering both classic and innovative blends. Their Oolong Secret d’Himalaya is a beautifully balanced tea with floral and woody notes, perfect for a meditative tea experience.

How to Recognise High-Quality Oolong Tea

When selecting oolong tea , there are a few key indicators of quality:

• Appearance: High-quality oolong leaves should be whole and carefully processed, not broken or overly crushed. Tightly rolled or twisted leaves are a sign of traditional craftsmanship.
• Aroma: Before brewing, the dry leaves should have a fresh, fragrant scent. Depending on the variety, this could be floral, fruity, or toasty.
• Flavour: A good oolong should have a balanced taste with depth and complexity. It should not be overly astringent or bitter.
• Multiple Infusions: Premium oolong teas can be steeped several times, with each infusion bringing out new flavours.

The Best Brewing Techniques for Oolong Tea

Brewing oolong tea correctly is essential to bringing out its full flavour. Here are some key tips:

• Water Temperature: Oolong tea is best brewed with water between 80°C and 95°C, depending on the oxidation level. Lighter oolongs require lower temperatures, while darker oolongs can handle hotter water.
• Steeping Time: The first infusion should be steeped for 1–2 minutes. Subsequent infusions can be slightly longer to allow the flavours to develop.
• Tea-to-Water Ratio: Use around 5 grams of loose-leaf oolong per 250ml of water for a balanced brew.
• Multiple Infusions: High-quality oolong teas are meant to be infused multiple times. Each steeping will reveal new dimensions of flavour.

For an authentic experience, consider using a gaiwan (a traditional Chinese lidded cup) or a Yixing clay teapot, both of which enhance the tea’s complexity and aroma.

Ideal Food Pairings with Oolong Tea

Oolong tea ’s versatility makes it an excellent companion for a variety of foods. Some great pairings include:

• Lightly oxidised oolongs (e.g., Tie Guan Yin): Best paired with fresh fruits, mild cheeses, or light seafood dishes.
• Heavily oxidised oolongs (e.g., Da Hong Pao): Complement richer foods like roasted meats, dark chocolate, or nuts.
• Milk Oolong: Pairs beautifully with pastries, shortbread, or vanilla-based desserts.

A Curated Selection of Exceptional Oolong Teas

At MaxiCoffee, we are passionate about sourcing the finest oolong teas from renowned tea-growing regions in China and Taiwan. Whether you’re looking for a delicate, floral oolong or a rich, roasted variety, our selection is carefully curated to offer the best quality and flavour.

Expertise and Passion for Tea Culture

MaxiCoffee is more than just a place to buy tea —we are a community of passionate tea lovers dedicated to sharing our knowledge and expertise. Our team carefully selects and tests each tea, providing detailed descriptions and brewing tips to help you enjoy the perfect cup.

Whether you’re new to oolong tea or a seasoned connoisseur, you can trust MaxiCoffee to provide the highest quality teas, expert guidance, and a seamless shopping experience.