Oolong Tea Origins: China, Taiwan and New Terroirs

Oolong tea: origins and production

Oolong tea originates from the Fujian province of China, placing it firmly among the great Chinese teas, even though its production has since spread to Taiwan, Ceylon and the island of Java. It is defined by small, carefully tended harvests of exceptional quality. Some oolongs are remarkably rare teas, sought after by enthusiasts around the world.

Oolong tea from China

The blue tea has its roots in China's Fujian province. This mountainous region in the southeast of the country enjoys a warm, humid summer climate and mild winters, bordered to the east by the Taiwan Strait. The word Oolong literally means Black Dragon, a reference to an ancient Chinese legend tied to the origins of oolong tea. Chinese oolong sits close to green tea in character and, like green tea, contains relatively low levels of caffeine.

Oolong tea from Taiwan

The coastal islands facing China across the strait make up the Taiwanese province of Fujian. Although this province is now under Taiwanese administration, it was part of China until the proclamation of the People's Republic in 1949. Its population is largely descended from settlers who came from China's Fujian region, bringing with them not only their original dialect but also the tradition of oolong tea. Taiwanese oolong tends to offer bolder, more full-bodied aromas closer to black tea, the result of a longer oxidation process.

Other producers: Oolong from Ceylon, Java and Korea

Fierce competition in the black tea market, combined with a global surge in green tea consumption, has led several tea-producing countries to turn their attention to blue tea. Ceylon, for instance, has begun producing and exporting oolong tea. Highly exclusive productions can also be found in South Korea and on the island of Java. These teas are genuinely rare and offer a truly singular experience.

A tea cherished by lovers of Chinese tea

Fujian oolong ranks among the best-selling teas across Asia, and is equally known and appreciated by European tea enthusiasts. A tea that ages gracefully and deepens with time, this origin tea delivers flavours that are simply in a class of their own.