Aged oolongs are among some of the the world's most rare teas. Unlike aged pu-er tea that changes through microbial activity, oolong leaves age naturally. Many aged oolong teas on the market are reroasted every few years but this destroys most of their natural aged characteristics. We followed the advice of the tea farmer, and so this traditional style Tieguanyin has been left undisturbed.  We aquired this Red Heart Goddess Tiegyuanyin from the farm on our last visit and have been aging it for a few years. This particular batch was from the wild tea section of their garden, comprised of original 1970's cultivars that have grown wild over past decades. Tea Master Chen believed these hearty, old plants to possess more 'chi' than the newer sections of the garden, imparting richer complexity than its younger counter part. A nice combination with the added dimension that will come from aging when done correctly.
Purchase this special tea to enjoy today, or to add to your own collection for continued aging just like a special bottle of wine, and reveal it in several years for a special occasion. Its unclear when we would ever be able to return to this farm so enjoy this unique item while it lasts!
Origin: Anxi, Fujian Province
Harvest: 2016 spring
Gaiwan: 5g/125ml just off boil. First infusion  45 sec, add 10s for successive infusions. 7-10 infusions.
Western: 1 tsp/cup, off boil 1-3min, multiple infusions
Storage:  Sealed well in a cool, dry, dark location