Phoenix Dan Cong Oolong Zhi Lan Xiang Yellow Sprig Fragrance 枝兰香
Highlights
Phoenix Dan Cong Oolong is known for its variety of fragrances and the rich mineral content of its tea leaves. The dry leaves are usually twisted and dark. The leaves have a reddish edge, which is a result of a process called Peng Qing or Yao Qing, that is an oxidation process unique to the making of oolong tea. After the Peng Qing process, the tea is slightly or moderately baked several times, depending on the type of tea and desired storage period.
This tea comes from the true origin of Phoenix Mountain in Guang Dong province. As soon as you start to pour water into the tea, a fragrance of floral sweetness and complex spices dance in your nose. True to its namesake, this tea is certainly suggestive of Gardenia flower, as well as other fruity notes, like passion fruit, and baked berries. It is also buttery, smooth and sweet.
The floral and fruity notes of this tea is a natural attribute, no artificial flavor agents or oil extracts are added to enhance the flavor of the tea.
To read about Victoria's Phoenix Dan Cong sourcing trip blog, please click here.
Additional Info
Origin: Phoenix mountain, Guang Dong province, China
Harvest time: April 2018 pluck
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
210oF, 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 Yixing clay pot to enhance the aroma and taste, usually 7 grams (2 rounded tbsp) of dry leaves for 100 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.