Zhi Lan Xiang

Heavy and redolent, this oolong offers a darker twist on the slowly-emerging fragrance of namesake orchid, underscoring the floral aroma with a slight hint of spice and earth. The rich aroma will perfume the mouth long after the last drop is drunk, but careful comparison with other high-quality Dancong oolongs will suggest that the usual note of mineral or stone has been replaced with a touch of fresh soil and an undercurrent of musk. Those who enjoy potting flowers in full bloom but need a tea break may find this just the thing to continue the ambiance.
  • ORIGIN:  Fenghuang, Chaoan, Chaozhou, Guangdong, China
  • MEANING:  Orchid fragrance (zhi lan xiang)
  • CULTIVAR:  Zhi Lan Xiang
  • HARVEST TIME:  Spring 2021
  • TASTE:  Orchid, musk, soil
1
$11.50

Preparation

IN THE TEAPOT
  • Quantity: 6g / 500ml
  • Water temperature: 90°C
  • Infusion time: 5 min
GONGFU CHA METHOD
  • Quantity: 3g / 100ml
  • Water temperature: 90°C
  • 4 infusions: 45, 60, 60, 90 sec

For best results in gongfu cha, brew in the traditional gaiwan or in a Yixing teapot. Too high water temperature would burn the leaves, resulting in bitter taste.

Additional Information

Tianyu Chaye and Ye Hangzhong

When farmers in Chaozhou tended to sell their tea only locally, to a limited number of customers, Ye Hangzhong was someone who saw the potential in the fine Fenghuang Dancong oolongs, and has helped to bring the category to wider worldwide attention. Leveraging his many connections and deep knowledge of Dancong, he gathered many quality examples to offer them under his brand, Tianyu Chaye, becoming a famous figure in the Dancong world: a member of the Chaozhou's tea bureau, active in the major tea events in the province, and a referee in many tea competitions. When Gabriele visited him in 2014, he was amazed by the quality of the teas, which were at the time prohibitively expensive for our fledgeling business. Now, almost ten years later, we are delighted to be able to offer teas from this premium brand, selecting (with difficulty!) six out of a dozen samples to offer our customers.

Ye Hanzhong pouring a flight of teas to taste