Ba Xian is one of the precious ten varietals of Phoenix Dan Cong. Its fragrance is in the category of cape jasmine or gardenia. The name was inspired from the Chinese legend of eight immortals passing through the sea. The story said that a tea farmer from Wudong mountain brought back the branches from a Big Black Leaf dan cong tree in Ya Hou village (垭后村) and planted them in the Wudong mountain, but only eight of these bushes survived, hence the name "Ba Xian". 

Phoenix Dan Cong Oolong is known for its large variety of intense fragrances and sweet aftertastes. The dry leaves are usually twisted and longer, and the wet leaves can be seen having a reddish edge, due to an oxidation process unique to the making of this oolong tea. The tea is moderately baked and is then ready for consumption. 

This tea is very floral. As soon as you start to pour water into the tea, a floral aroma along with layers of spices dance into your nose. The floral notes are synergized into the liquor, along with fruity notes suggestive of passion fruit, and baked berries. 

The floral and fruity notes of this tea are completely natural, no artificial flavor agents or oil extracts were added to enhance the flavor of the tea. 

Additional Info

Origin:                       Phoenix mountain, Guang Dong province, China

Harvest time:            April 2022 pluck, roasting complete in August 2022

Plucking standard:   One bud, two or three leaves

Elevation:                  800 meters

Tasting Notes 

As the name suggests, Gardenia fragrance is noticeable in the first steeping and throughout your tea session. It is full-bodied, buttery and sweet. One can note the hints of passion fruit, cherries, and pomegranate. 

Steeping Guide 

210^oF, 4 grams (heaping 2 tbsp) for 6 oz of spring/filtered water, adjust to taste, 1 min, at least 8 steepings. We advise against the use of tap water as well as purified water.

Gongfu brewing guide:  

It is recommended to use the Gongfu brewing method in order to get the best out of the tea. 

Use a gaiwan or clay pot to enhance the aroma and taste, usually 7 grams (2 rounded tbsp) of dry leaves for 120 ml (3.4 oz) of water. When using gongfu brewing method, it is essential to warm up the brewing vessel so that the water temperature will not drop significantly before brewing and also it is advised to quickly rinse the tea before the first brewing. The recommended brewing time is 10s,10s,15s,15s, 20s. You may add 5 or 10 seconds steeping time for each subsequent infusions.

Please click here for more detailed Gongfu brewing instructions.