Ti Kuan Yin is an elegant Chinese Oolong that produces a light floral aroma from a pale golden liquor. When stepped, the tightly rolled leaves will unfurl into large green leaves that blossom with a delectable and distinctive savoriness that can be enjoyed several times. Ti Kuan Yin provides a light nutty flavor with a soft, vegetal and toasted rice note similar to that of Gen Mai Cha and finishes dry, with a buttery smooth end. This high-quality tea is best served hot and is an excellent addition to any meal. 

Oolong tea is semi fermented which is one of the reasons it has such a unique character. The semi fermentation gives the tea a little bit more body than a green tea but less body than a black lea. ... and interestingly it gives the flavor a very unique twist. You will see (particularly in the fused leaf) that the edges of the leaves are slightly bruised (brownish). The reason for this is that the leaves are lightly bruised to start the oxidation process. Because they are more full-bodied and green teas, oolong teas must not be picked too early or at too tender a stage. They must be produced immediately. Unlike leaves for green tea, those destined to be oolong are wilted in the direct sun and then shaken in tubular bamboo baskets to bruise the leaf edges. The bruising is what makes the edges oxidize faster than the center. After 15-25 minutes (depending upon ambient temperature and humidity levels) the tea is fired, locking in the special flavor profile. There are several grades of Ti Kuan Yin (a.k.a Iron Goddess of Mercy). This particular type is the premium grade - below the superior grade but has many of the characteristics of top Ti Kuan Yin Oolongs. It has been written that Ti Kuan Yin is at first bitter, then sweet, and finishes with a fragrance that lingers on your palate. We find this particular grade sweet with a fragrant finish and has no bitter notes. The name Iron Goddess of Mercy came from a farmer named Mr. Wei. At the temple dedicated to Kuan Yin, he was asked what is the name of his special tea. It must be called Ti Kuan Yin in honor of the iron statue of Kuan Yin he replied. As the name was a good one, it has never been changed.

Ingredients: Chinese oolong tea.

Brewing Tips: Ti Kuan Yin tea should be made with water brought to 185-205° F. Using one teaspoon of loose leaf tea for each cup.

This tea should be steeped for 4-5 minutes. Remove the leaves once the brewing time is reached

Decant and enjoy!