Price range: $21.00 through $58.00
This year's Li Shan High Mountain Oolong is an exceptionally well-executed tea from a special subregion within the acclaimed greater growing area of 梨山 Lí Shān (lit. "Pear Mountain"). Expect long-lasting tones of fruit (especially peach and other fresh stonefruit), a forward bouquet, all framed by a classy buttery minerality and thick mouthfeel. The greater Lishan growing area hosts the highest gardens in Taiwan, with several parts of its range eclipsing the 2000 meter mark. Resting between 2000 and 2100 meters, this tea is from the well-aspected and emerging cult classic area called 新佳陽 Xīn Jiā Yáng.
swimming spot below in the Deji reservoir
During our time in Li Shan, the Chen family allowed us to document and engage in tea production with them from harvest to processing to brewing.
unlike many other high mountain growing areas, sunnier Li Shan does not experience as much perpetual mist. Withering is easier, and the flavors tends to be more bright and aromatic.
Young Chen's uncle, Mr. Huang, invites us to judge the fresh tea as he continues to assess at each step of the process.
When his father suddenly passed away, young Mr. Chen inherited his tea operations and with the help of his uncle and other skilled mentors is building on a legacy of excellence.
Enjoying Li Shan Oolong is a joy as the liquor is thick and sweet. Lots of flowery essence and a nice mountainous brew to sip and reflect on the quality of the leaves. It’s nice to be able to brew this durable tea for many steeps.