Lishan Cui Luan High Mountain Winter Oolong Tea, Lot 870

Lishan teas could very well be the best high mountain teas of Taiwan. The Lishan tea area sits majestically on the central ridge at altitudes ranging from 1500 m to 2400 m. The average yearly temperature is below 20 degrees and frost can be experienced in the winter time. Tea grows at a slow pace therefore production is limited to only 2 crops a year. Owing to the particular climate and terroir, Lishan tea is rich in catechin which reduced the bitter and harsh elements in the liquor. The higher theanine and soluble nitrogen content contributes in heightening the compelling exotic sweetness of this tea. It is truly a unique tea coming from a uniquely rich soil and growing in the best natural conditions one can find. This winter’s Lot 870 is produced near Cui Luan. This sub-area of the Lishan terroir follows the coastal slope of the Hehuanshan mountain range. This region produces a clean, flowing high mountain tea that is quite addictive. This would be a great introductory tea to anyone making a first foray into Lishan teas. This particular Lot is produced by one of our long-time collaborators who often contracts out his services to tea growers. His level of skill and enthusiasm about the craft of tea making is unparalleled in Taiwan, so much so he is sought after from Lishan down to Alishan, even though he is from our area. This is a common practice in Taiwan, especially in high mountain areas. This suits us well as we get to have another level of inside information on the quality of certain lots.