High Mountain Oolong Tea Qilai Taiwan

What's so special about this tea?

This lightly roasted, high-altitude oolong comes from the prestigious Qilai Mountain region of Nantou, Taiwan. This exceptional harvest was sourced from a family tea garden located on the remote, rugged slopes of Qilai Mountain, at approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. The family behind this tea are multigenerational farmers originally from Lugu, Taiwan, who relocated to this area to further develop high-altitude oolong production. The May 2025 harvest captures the finest expression of this mountain terroir.

In Taiwan, high-altitude oolongs like this one are typically made with the Qing Xin cultivar, which means "green heart" in Chinese. It is known for its delicate aroma and refined character. Due to the cool mountain climate, the first harvest of the season is picked in the first week of May, and the leaves are rolled into compact spheres. With light oxidation and careful, gentle roasting, this tea is crafted to highlight both its floral complexity and its inherent sweetness.

As it infuses, the leaves unfurl gracefully, revealing the buds and up to the third leaf. The infusion is clear and bright, with a pale golden hue and a gentle warmth. Notes of panna cotta, melon bingsu, and apple combine in a creamy, silky texture. A herbal touch reminiscent of eucalyptus leaves provides a long, balanced finish, inviting you to explore this tea further.

We recommend preparing it in a porcelain or enameled teapot or gaiwan to enjoy it to the fullest.