ROCK OOLONG

Da Hong Pao Oolong Tea (大红袍), also known as “Big Red Robe,” is one of the most famous and prestigious teas in China. It is a type of Wuyi Rock Tea (Yancha) grown in the rocky terrain of the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province. Revered for its exceptional flavor and legendary origins, Da Hong Pao is a tea of cultural and historical significance.

Key Features of Da Hong Pao:

1. Flavor Profile:

• Taste: Rich, bold, and smooth with a unique balance of roasted and floral notes. It often has hints of caramel, dried fruits, and a mineral undertone.

• Aroma: Intense and aromatic with a smoky, woody, and slightly floral fragrance.

• Aftertaste: Lingering sweetness (known as “Hui Gan”) with a refreshing finish.

2. Appearance:

• The leaves are long, dark, and twisted, reflecting their high-quality hand-processing.

3. Processing:

• Da Hong Pao is an oolong tea, meaning it is partially oxidized, striking a balance between green and black teas.

• The leaves undergo traditional roasting, which enhances their complexity and creates the tea’s signature “rock essence” (Yan Yun).

The Legend of Da Hong Pao:

The origin of Da Hong Pao is steeped in folklore. According to legend, during the Ming Dynasty, a scholar fell seriously ill while traveling to take the imperial examination. A monk from a nearby temple served him tea made from special tea bushes growing on the cliffs. The tea restored his health, and in gratitude, he gifted the monk a red robe (symbolizing imperial honor). The tea bushes became known as “Big Red Robe,” and their fame spread across the empire.

The Original Bushes:

• There are six original Da Hong Pao bushes growing on a rocky cliff in the Wuyi Mountains, believed to be over 350 years old.

• These legendary bushes are protected and no longer harvested. The tea from these bushes, last harvested in the 2000s, is considered priceless and stored in museums.

Modern Da Hong Pao:

• Today, Da Hong Pao is cultivated from the descendants of the original bushes.

• It is still considered one of the finest teas in the world, and the best grades are highly sought after and expensive.

Health Benefits of Da Hong Pao:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage and supports overall health.

2. Improves Digestion: Aids in breaking down fats and heavy meals.

3. Boosts Energy: Contains caffeine for an energizing effect without jitters.

4. Supports Heart Health: May lower cholesterol and improve circulation.

5. Reduces Stress: Contains L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and focus.

How to Brew Da Hong Pao:

1. Water Temperature: 90-95°C (194-203°F).

2. Tea-to-Water Ratio: 1 teaspoon (3-5g) per cup (150-200ml).

3. Steeping Time: 20-30 seconds for the first infusion, gradually increasing for subsequent steeps.

4. Multiple Infusions: Can be steeped 5-7 times, with the flavor evolving with each brew.

Da Hong Pao Oolong Tea is not just a beverage but a cultural treasure, offering a taste of history, legend, and the rocky essence of the Wuyi Mountains.