Wuyi Rock Oolong Rou Gui Golden Chair Jin Jiao Yi

Golden Chair (Jin Jiao Yi 金交椅) is a distinguished Wuyi rock oolong tea, celebrated for its origin in one of the most prized micro-terroirs of the Wuyi Mountains. This area lies at the top of the legendary Niu Lan Keng micro terroir —fondly nicknamed "The Beef" by tea connoisseurs. In homage, Golden Chair has earned the nickname "Small Beef" or “Beef on the Cow’s Back” among enthusiasts.

The tea takes its name from the Golden Chair peak, a rock formation resembling a traditional chair. Locals believe this formation brings auspicious Feng Shui, further enhancing the tea's mystique and reputation.

Situated in the core of the Wuyi Mountain UNESCO World Heritage Site, this region is part of the revered Zhen Yan (“True Rocks”) area, known for producing the finest rock oolongs. This unique micro-terroir receives ample sunlight and benefits from both elevation and access to lower stream moisture, resulting in an exceptionally complex flavor profile. The mineral-rich soil imparts a distinctive minerality to the tea, enhancing both texture and taste.

Appearance & Craftsmanship
The dry leaves are dark, tightly twisted, and moderately roasted by Master Liu, a very  experienced tea master, who hails from a respected tea-making lineage. The infusion yields a deep reddish-orange liquor, visually striking and aromatic.

Each infusion reveals new dimensions—layered, refined, and satisfying—epitomizing the very famous Wuyi tea essence: “Rock bone, floral fragrance.” Golden Chair is not just a tea—it's a sensory journey and a true gastronomic delicacy among Wuyi rock oolongs.

Flavor and Aroma

The fragrance is intensely floral, with elegant notes of peach blossom, orchid, and chrysanthemum delicately infused in the liquor. On the palate, the tea is full-bodied and well-rounded, offering a vibrant medley of stone fruits, pomegranate, pear, peach, and almond. A warm cinnamon spice lingers in the liquor, cup, and lid, echoing the signature profile of top-tier Wuyi oolongs.

Click here for steeping instructions. 

Additional Info

Origin:                   Wuyi Mountains, Fujian province, China

Harvest:                 May 2023, traditionally charcoal fired

Grade:                    Zhen Yan