Hailing from a lower elevation farm—around 1300 feet—in western Nantou County, this intriguing oolong is named for both the beautiful evergreen trees of the area, and the cultivar used to make it. Cui yu (”green jade”) was developed by Taiwan’s tea research institute in 1981 and dubbed for the deep verdant color of its leaves. It’s less commonly used for production these days, as the more sturdy si ji chun type is more adaptable to varied growing conditions. Yet its celebrated floral notes shine and transform through the final processing applied by an award-winning roaster.

Hints of sweet potato, vanilla and smoky black cardamom unfold into a both complex and approachable cup, with flavors reminiscent of cocoa granola or pecan pie with chunks of bittersweet chocolate. Hearty yet silkily smooth, this oolong is an excellent value—especially when enjoyed through multiple steepings, as it was made to do.

Country: Taiwan
Region: Nantou County
Character: dark chocolate, sweet potato, nutty
Harvest Season: Spring 2024

2 oz

Click here to order a small sample size of this tea.

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 200º F

 3-5 grams, 2-3 minute steep

 ¼-⅓ full, 10-20 second steep