Dongfang Meiren (Fancy Oolong 东方美人)

This tea box contains 12pcs with 4-6grams per pc, total 50 grams.

Dongfang Meiren, also known as Oriental Beauty tea/Fancy Oolong, is a highly esteemed Taiwanese oolong tea. It is renowned for its distinctive flavor, beautiful appearance, and unique production process involving tea leaf hoppers. This tea is also known by other names such as Bai Hao Oolong and White Tip Oolong.

Appearance

Dongfang Meiren leaves are a mix of colors, including white, green, yellow, red, and brown. The leaves are slightly twisted, and the white tips (buds) are particularly noticeable, giving the tea its name "White Tip Oolong."

Aroma

Oriental Beauty tea has a rich and complex aroma with prominent notes of honey, ripe fruits, and floral undertones. The scent is both inviting and sophisticated.

Flavor Profile

Dongfang Meiren offers a smooth and multi-layered flavor profile. Key flavor characteristics include:

• Honeyed Sweetness: A natural honey-like sweetness that is smooth and lingering.
• Fruity Notes: Hints of ripe peaches, plums, and other fruits contribute to the tea's complexity.
• Floral Undertones: Delicate floral notes that add a refreshing dimension to the tea.
• Mellow and Smooth: A smooth, full-bodied taste with a pleasant aftertaste.

Production Process

The production of Dongfang Meiren is unique due to the involvement of tea leaf hoppers:

1. Plucking: Only the tender leaves and buds are harvested.
2. Withering: The leaves are spread out to wither under the sun, allowing them to lose some moisture.
3. Tea Leaf Hopper Biting: The leaves are intentionally bitten by tea leaf hoppers, which causes a natural reaction in the plant, leading to the development of the tea's characteristic honeyed flavor and aroma.
4. Oxidation: The leaves undergo partial oxidation, which gives them their unique oolong characteristics.
5. Rolling: The leaves are gently rolled to shape them and enhance their flavor.
6. Baking: The leaves are baked to develop their final flavor and aroma.

Nutritional Value

Dongfang Meiren is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds:

• Antioxidants: Help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
• Polyphenols: Promote cardiovascular health and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Catechins: Support metabolism and weight management.

Brewing Tips

To brew Dongfang Meiren, use water at around 85-90°C (185-194°F). Steep about 1-2 teaspoons of tea per cup for 2-3 minutes. This tea can be steeped multiple times, with each infusion revealing new layers of its complex flavor.

Historical Significance

Dongfang Meiren has a storied history dating back to the 19th century. It is said that this tea gained international fame when it was presented to Queen Victoria, who gave it the name "Oriental Beauty." The unique production method and exceptional quality quickly made it one of Taiwan's most prized teas.

Unique Qualities

Dongfang Meiren is celebrated for several unique qualities:

• Natural Honey Flavor: The honeyed sweetness is a result of the tea leaf hoppers biting the leaves, making it a naturally sweet tea.
• Beautiful Appearance: The colorful mix of leaves and white tips makes it visually striking.
• Complex Flavor: The combination of honey, fruit, and floral notes creates a rich and multi-layered flavor profile.
• Traditional Craftsmanship: The tea is crafted using traditional methods, ensuring high quality and consistency.
• Limited Production: The involvement of tea leaf hoppers and the meticulous production process result in limited quantities, making it a highly prized tea.

Dongfang Meiren, with its luxurious flavor, captivating aroma, and beautiful appearance, offers a unique and refined tea experience. Its rich history and traditional craftsmanship make it a standout choice for tea connoisseurs looking to explore the finest oolong teas.