For tea enthusiasts, nothing surpasses the aroma and taste of a freshly brewed cup of oolong tea. The rich flavour and soothing aroma make it a perfect choice at any time of the day. However, there's a special kind of oolong tea that stands out from the rest - Milk Oolong. This tea not only boasts a unique taste and aroma but also offers a host of health benefits. Here's a journey from harvest to cup of Milk Oolong Tea.
The Harvest:
Milk Oolong Tea is cultivated in the high mountainous regions of Taiwan where the climate is optimal for growing the tea plant. The leaves are often plucked in the early morning while the dew is still on the leaves. This preserves the integrity of the leaf and ensures a higher-quality tea. These leaves are plucked in small quantities throughout the year to maintain quality.
The Withering Process:
Once the leaves are harvested, they are left to wither for several hours. This process allows the moisture in the leaf to evaporate and make the leaf pliable. Once the leaf is pliable, it is ready for the twisting and rolling process.
The Twisting and Rolling:
The twisted and rolled shape is a key factor in bringing out the rich flavour of Milk Oolong Tea. The twisted leaf shape allows more of the essential oils in the tea to be released during brewing. This process is carried out by hand or with the use of machines in modern tea processing houses.
The Oxidation:
Once the tea is twisted and rolled, it is left to oxidize in a controlled environment. The oxidation stage varies depending on the type of oolong tea being produced. Milk Oolong is usually oxidized between 15-25%, which gives the tea its unique aroma and flavour.
The Firing:
Finally, the tea is fired or roasted to stop the oxidation process and to remove any remaining moisture in the leaves. This stage also helps to bring out the toasty and nutty flavour of Milk Oolong. Once this stage is completed, the tea is ready to be packaged and shipped around the world.
From harvest to cup, Milk Oolong Tea is a delicate and intricate process that requires skilled artisans and modern technology to produce. With every sip, you can taste the care and passion put into producing this unique and flavourful tea. If you're a tea lover or simply looking to try something new, Milk Oolong Tea is definitely worth a try!
