Differences between a Fujian Tie Guan Yin and a Taiwan high mountain Oolong
Tea consumers new to Oolong tea might get confused between the An-Xi Tie Guan Yin and Taiwan high mountain rolled Oolong. Follow are some of the similarities and differences.
Taiwan Oolong tea making is similar to An-Xi Tie Guan Yin in many aspects
- Relatively green compared to some other Oolong teas, such as Wuyi rock teas or Oriental Beauty
- Rolled into tight pearl shapes
- Refreshing aroma and smooth texture
The differences
- Different growing conditions: being on an island, the premium Taiwan Oolong tea plantations are situated on high altitude mountains with relatively cold temperature, heavy mist and short sun shine. The Fujian An-Xi Tie Guan Yin on the other hand is gown in the An-Xi area of the Fujian province on mainland China. The weather condition is classically 15-18oC on average with humidity above 78% and soil PH 4.5-5.6.
- Different plant species. The Taiwan Oolong tea leaves are bigger, fuller and stronger compared the An-Xi Tie Guan Yin varieties.
- Taiwan Oolong teas are more fermented than An-Xi Tie Guan Yin.The upfront taste of Taiwan Oolong is less floral compared Tie Guan Yin.
- An-Xi Tie Guan Yin has more of a floral aroma while Taiwan Oolong is well known for its intense lingering after taste.
- Taiwan high mountain Oolong has more repeat steeping potential – it can be repeatedly steeped up to 6 times (by simply topping up with hot water), instead of 3-4 times for Fu-Jian Tie Guan Yin.
