Oolong tea, also known as Wulong, is a unique type of tea native to China and Taiwan. Oolong is a product of skillful craftsmanship from dedicated farmers to create a tea that is loved not only in its native countries but also in other parts of the world.

What is Oolong Tea?

Just like green tea and black tea, oolong derives from the Camellia sinensis plant. The plant contains enzymes that make a chemical reaction and oxidize. Oxidation is the only process that differentiates green, oolong, and black tea.

But more on that later.

There are many different “legends” in China about how tea came to be. One story claims the tea’s ‘black dragon’ name comes from the large dark leaves of different shapes resembling a dark, fierce dragon.

What is Oolong Tea?

A different story claims that a Chinese farmer by the name of Wu Liang accidentally found the tea from the Camellia sinensis plant. Wu Liang picked his tea leaves and left them to dry.

Upon returning to his harvest, he discovered oxidation had withered and darkened the tea leaves. According to legend, Wu Liang became Wulong, and the rest is history.

Regardless of which story resonates with you most, the fact is that oolong tea is native to the cool rocky highlands of China, where conditions for growing tea are not exactly ideal.

These tough conditions give oolong its unique tastes, flavors and tremendous health benefits, unlike teas that are grown in more ideal circumstances.

Oolong’s Global Appeal

Both Taiwan and China produce a variety of different oolongs, again partly due to the different environments in which it is grown, but also in the manner in which the oolong is produced.

How and when the tea is picked also plays an important role; some are harvested in the spring and have that fresh, springy taste. Others are picked during the winter months and come with a more mature roasted taste.

How does Organic Oolong tea looks like

Today, there are different types of oolong teas being cultivated in many far-flung corners of the world, from Australia, Nepal, New Zealand, India, Vietnam, and other parts of Asia.

Oolong vs. Black Tea and Green Tea

What Makes Oolong Tea Different?

Oolong tea derives from the Camellia sinensis plant, just like green, black, and white tea. But what sets them apart?

While it is true that black tea and green tea may be the most common types of tea across the globe, oolong tea is sometimes thought of as the little-known treasure of the tea world.

Oolong cannot be fully categorized into either green tea or black tea. Instead, it falls somewhere in-between. Depending on the oxidation level and how it is processed, oolong can lean towards either the black or the green tea in flavor, texture, and trait.

Oxidation

The number one difference between oolong tea and other kinds of tea is in the levels of oxidation. This is what gives the tea its unique aroma and flavors, plus all the other benefits.

Green tea undergoes hardly any oxidation at all, and this is why it retains its green color and flavor. Black tea is put through a more thorough oxidation procedure, which gives the tea its dark hue.

Oxidation and caffeine difference between teas

The oolong oxidation process differs from one oolong tea to another. Some variations may have as little as 8% oxidation, while others have as much as 80%. The level of oxidation affects the taste and color of the tea. The least oxidized oolong is greener, while the more oxidized will have a darker color and stronger flavor.

Leaf Shape and Production Processes

Along with color and aroma, the appearance of the oolong tea helps us distinguish the type. Depending on the production process, it can be rolled into balls, curled into different shapes, or even rolled into a thin strand.

Even though one batch of harvests may have been oxidized the same way, the producer can change the taste through the rolling process. The shape of the oolong leaf is also a major influence on the flavor of the tea.

Oolong Teas Around the World

While still not as widespread in the West as in its Asian homeland, oolong is gradually becoming a tea with a truly global appeal.

Countries as far apart as Africa, Nepal, New Zealand, Australia, India, Thailand, and other remote corners of Southeast Asia have turned to the cultivation of their very own oolong varieties. It can be just as pleasant and enjoyable as the more well-known and much-loved Chinese and Taiwanese oolongs.

Chinese Oolongs – Home of the Most Appreciated Oolong Teas

The birthplace of oolong tea. There are many reasons why Chinese oolong is so different from the Taiwanese variations of the tea. Color and taste being just two.

Generally speaking, Chinese oolong is oxidized much longer than its counterpart in Taiwan. It gives the Chinese oolong tea its darker appearance. Some tea fans consider it to be a less dry but more mature taste.

Some of the choicest and most popular oolong teas come from the Chinese province of Fujian, a very rocky and almost inaccessible place. This is the home of the Yancha tea, better known as Wuyi or cliff tea.

As a matter of fact, it takes its name from the unwelcoming environment. Yet, it is this very terrain that gives their oolong its unique taste and body.

Monkey Picked Oolong Legend

Discovered in the 18th century in Fujian province, monkey picked derives its name from a folk tale which claims that local monks trained monkeys native to the mountainous region to pick the tea from the highest branches.

Mythology of the Monkey Picked oolong tea

The term later evolved to mean tea of the very highest quality. Monkey-picked teas are considered to be among the most authentic oolong teas. They are still produced on a small scale and are prepared by traditional family tea handlers.

monkey picked oolong tea

The most popular monkey-picked tea is the Tie Guan Yin which is also among the rarest oolongs in the world.

Tie Guan Yin Oolong

From the mainland comes another famous oolong, the Tie Guan Yin. For those coffee fans who would love to start drinking oolong tea, the Tie Guan Yin is an excellent choice.

Initially from Anxi County in Fujian, this smooth and mellow tea with a shimmering, golden tint is ideal for people who would like to transition from coffee to tea. Tie Guan Yin is made from the tree, which also produces the popular Qingxin oolong.

Tieguanyin (Tie guan Yin) Oolong tea

Qinxin has a slightly more modest flavor, but in the hands of a skilled tea master, can still deliver a wonderful tea experience. The tea is rolled into balls before it enters the oxidation process.

Phoenix Oolong

From the Phoenix Mountains comes the Phoenix Select, which is better known as Fenghuang Dancong tea in China. These tea plants grow so tall they require ladders to be picked.

This tea also has a unique brown color from the oxidized leaves and can be a bit dry and bitter. However, after repeated infusions, the tea achieves a remarkable texture that is far less dry and has interesting woody tones.

Other Various Chinese Oolong Tea Types

Other famous oolongs from this region include Da Hong Pao, Shuixian, and Xiao Hong Pao. Each of these teas has its own authentic taste and color. As a rule of thumb, teas from Fujian have flowery and fruity notes and are well matured, making the teas popular with both locals and people worldwide.

Different Oolong Tea types

The “Da Hong Pao” tea is considered the most difficult to cultivate as it comes from a rare tea tree that produces only small amounts of tea every year. For this reason, it may be more expensive to purchase.

Taiwanese Oolong Tea

Taiwan has emerged from the shadows of Chinese oolong to establish itself as an authentic producer in its own right. Some tea experts claim that there are still traces of the original Taiwanese oolong dating as far back as three centuries.

Oolong may have been first discovered in China, but Taiwan also has its own oolong traditions. Less oxidized than the Chinese version, Taiwanese oolong tea is greener than the darker Chinese variant.

Taiwanese oolong tea

Taiwan’s current oolong is generally imported from China, specifically from the Fujian area. Just like in China, the most popular type of tea is Wuyi. But the Taiwan version, grown in the central country regions, differs dramatically in terms of color and flavor from its Chinese cousin.

The Taiwanese have developed their own original methods for processing oolong tea. Over the years, these methods have changed to meet the domestic demand for a greater variety of tea.

Currently, there are more than 100 types of tea being enjoyed both within the country and beyond its borders. Some of the more popular Taiwanese oolong varieties, commonly known as Formosa tea, include Shan Lin Xi High Mountain oolong, the Taiwan Milk oolong, and the Dong Ding oolong tea.

Dong Ding Oolong

From the central region of Nantou comes the delicious Dong Ding oolong type. Dong Ding, also spelled Tung-ting, uses processed Chinese oolong plants from the Wuyi Mountains.

It uses a unique style to achieve oxidation of up to 30%. This produces a sweet, smooth, and average-bodied tea. The oxidation levels are just right to allow it to maintain the green hue that makes the Jade oolong.

Dong Ding oolong tea plantation

Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong Tea)

A Taiwanese tea with a milky taste ideal for anyone who prefers a creamy feel to their tea. Jin Xuan tea, a.k.a milk oolong tea, is light and extremely smooth in texture.

Despite its name, milk oolong variants do not mean that it should be enjoyed with milk. The title ‘milk oolong’ comes from the tea’s floral aroma and its milky sweet taste. Milk oolong has gained popularity as one of the most delicious oolong teas thanks to its light yet flavorful taste.

Jin Xuan - Milk Oolong tea

The oxidation process of milk oolong twists the leaves and gives them a dark green/brown color. Once the tea master is satisfied with the oxidation level, the leaves are heated to stop the oxidation. This process is repeated several times until the desired result is reached.

It should come as no surprise that the best oolongs are grown in harsh, mountainous regions. The plant’s location plays a crucial role in producing the unique flavor the tea acquires after oxidation.

Jinxuan (Milk) Oolong Tea brewed

The best creamy teas benefit from the environmental conditions of their surroundings to fully develop their aromas and flavors.

Oriental Beauty Oolong

The Oriental Beauty (Dongfang Meiren) oolong tea is native to Taiwan and is considered by many to be the best of the authentic Taiwanese teas.

Oriental Beauty Oolong tea

This variation is oxidized up to 70%, unusual for the Taiwanese tea culture. This oolong tea is popular with sweet-toothed Europeans who like flavorful teas.

Other Taiwan Oolong Tea Varieties

Taiwan also has a version of Tieguanyin tea that is flavored with osmanthus flowers for a sweeter taste. This tea is not as oxidized as the Chinese variant, but it is just as good.

In recent years, however, many of Taiwan’s tea producers have been turning to coffee production. Thus, Tie Guan Yin is becoming increasingly rare.

Taiwan’s largest tea production region is in the North, and it is here that the Wenshan Pouchong is found; an oolong with leaves of a twisted shape that undergoes an oxidation process of about 15%.

Other quality Taiwanese teas come from the high mountain regions of Shanlinxi and Shan. These oolongs have fully developed flavors, great aromas, and a pleasant aftertaste that tea lovers the world over have learned to appreciate.

Oolong Tea in Vietnam

For centuries, tea has played a significant role in Vietnamese culture. And it’s no wonder. The climate in Vietnam is ideal for cultivating tea, and the country has excelled as a producer for both domestic and international tea consumption.

In fact, if it hadn’t been for Vietnam’s tragic history of armed conflict, the country would today be one of the major tea produces in the world.

Thankfully, this situation has now changed, and Vietnam is well on becoming a major player in the global tea industry.

One of the most famous Vietnamese oolongs is the curly-leafed, dark green Imperial oolong tea variant. Once infused, this tea turns light green, a tell-tale sign of low oxidation levels, and produces a tea with the soft and sweet nuances of honey.

Vietnamese Imperial oolong tea

As with other oolong tea types, the Vietnamese oolong uses the larger leaves of the plant, unlike other teas that focus solely on the bud. Vietnamese oolong traditionally relies on its century-old craftsmanship to create a host of high-quality teas.

For more oolong tea types, please visit this post.

Best Oolong Tea Brands Review

The list contains my personal choices. There are many different places where you can buy different types of Oolong tea.

Bigelow Oolong

The Bigelow Company is known for its high-quality teas in general, and their oolong tea variants do not disappoint. Bigelow’s oolongs are smooth and sweet and perfect for any time of the day or night.

An excellent conclusion to dinner with friends and family, oolongs from Bigelow are sure to receive an abundance of appreciative compliments.

Bigelow Oolong tea

Bigelow’s tea is carefully crafted to fully develop all the authentic flavors and aromas that you’d expect in oolong tea. Enjoy your oolong tea whichever way you like, whether piping hot or iced, in the morning or evening.

You can even add some cream for a little extra comfort during the cold months. The smoothness of the Bigelow oolong tea will have you hooked for a long time to come.

Prince of Peace Oolong

Prince of Peace Oolong is sourced right from the homeland of oolong in Fujian province.

Prince of Peace Oolong tea

Traditionally picked and processed to deliver the pleasant taste of this flavorful, golden Chinese oolong. A tea you can enjoy wherever you happen to be in the world.

Foojoy Chinese Oolong Tea

From the southern parts of the Fujian Province comes the Foojoy China oolong. The mountain region ensures the tea contains all the beautiful aromas that make a good quality oolong tea.

Foojoy oolong tea

Foojoy is traditionally processed, undergoing partial fermentation, which helps bring out the flavors and color with every brew. Foojoy oolong tea is sweet and tasty and will definitely leave you asking for more.

Twinning’s 100% Oolong Tea

This global tea company brings you the best oolong teas, perfectly oxidized to ensure all the authentic flavors are retained.

Twinings Oolong tea

Oolongs from Twinings undergo a process of repeated rolling to achieve the desired dark green color. A pleasant and calming tea, with a sweet floral aroma and exquisite flavor, bursting with the countless health in each cup.

What is the Difference Between Loose Leaf and Tea Bag Oolong?

The discussion on which is better, the loose leaf or tea bag oolong is never-ending. Everyone has a preferred option, and none of the options are better or worse than the other.

Basically, loose leaf oolong tea contains dried, partially oxidized leaves close to their original, raw state. Bags contain portions of ground tea, which some people prefer simply for convenience.

A lot of serious tea lovers prefer the loose leaf teas for sheer authenticity. They insist that loose tea has more flavor as well.

Teabags can be subject to mixing with other teas. As the tea in bags is so finely ground, flavors can sometimes seem less robust than loose leaves. Some oils that contribute to the aroma and flavors of the tea can also be lost.

Loose leaf vs Bagged Oolong tea

Making a pot of oolong using loose leaf tea can be beneficial regarding flavors. As the leaves come into contact with the hot water, they open up, releasing all the flavors that were once trapped inside. However, some high-quality oolong tea bags can also provide maximum flavor and aroma enjoyment.

Teabags allow us to prepare a cup of tea much faster than the loose-leaf and are a perfect solution when there’s not enough time to enjoy the whole brewing process.

Bags or loose is a personal choice. In either case, it is the quality of the tea that can make or break your tea drinking experience.

Oolong Tea Preparation

Everyone will have their own method for brewing the perfect cup of oolong tea. But if you are new to this exceptional beverage, we’ve added a few tips just to get you started. Here are the six basic steps to making a great cup of delicious oolong tea:

  1. Boil a kettle of water, then let it cool to about 85 to 95 degrees C.
  2. Add one heaped teaspoon of loose leaf or one tea bag into a mug or cup. One teaspoon or tea bag per person, and an extra one if you’re making the tea in a teapot.
  3. Add the boiled water directly onto the tea.
  4. Stir the tea, and then allow it to steep for 1 to 4 minutes. Stir again at the halfway point.
  5. When ready, remove the tea bags or strain the tea.
  6. Enjoy a delicious and refreshing cup of oolong tea.

Remember, tea is a very personal thing. You can make your own adjustments in time and amounts until you find the perfect tea for your preferred taste.

Oolong Tea Steeping Guide

Click here to find a more detailed guide on how best to make, steep, and brew oolong tea, including iced and milk oolong tea.

Caffeine Content in Oolong Tea

Generally, the caffeine content in oolong is low, but it changes with how you brew your tea. Factors such as temperature and how long you steep the tea per brewing will gradually increase the caffeine content.

On average, oolong has 30mg of caffeine per one 4oz cup. For comparison, green tea contains 20mg per teacup, and black tea has 45mg caffeine content.

caffeine level comparison

On average, brewing can take up to five minutes if you prefer your tea strong, which means that the caffeine content can rise. If you’d prefer to keep the caffeine level low, it’s best not to brew your oolong for longer than two minutes.

Effects of Caffeine

Too many cups of oolong tea may drastically increase the caffeine content in your blood. Some of the common side effects of a lot of caffeine and tea consumption include being nauseous, irritable, a lack of sleep, and palpitations.

Caffeine in large amounts over a short period of time can result in headaches, a loss of appetite, and in extreme cases, it can cause vomiting. Vomiting and diarrhea together are a sign of caffeine poisoning, and you should seek out a medical professional immediately.

Caffeine Sensitivity

Caffeine can be found in almost every beverage like tea, coffee, soft beverages, and energy drinks.

Oolong tea vs other beverages caffeine comparison

If you are sensitive to caffeine to such the extent that you are physically affected, you should be wary of all of the above beverages, including oolong tea. Also, consuming caffeine before bedtime could cause you to have a sleepless night.

For safety precautions, don’t drink more than 1000ml of oolong tea per day.

Oolong and Medication

Some medications may cause a negative reaction when used with oolong. That is why before starting to take oolong tea, you should talk to your physician to check the tea will not affect you in any way.

This is especially important if you take antibiotics, heart medication, certain types of sedatives, anti-depressors, aspirin, pills for contraception, cancer treatment, and/or medication for high blood pressure.

Just as with anything new to your diet, you should consult a healthcare professional if you are in doubt about an existing health condition before you introduce oolong tea into your daily diet regime.

The Myriad Health Benefits of Oolong Tea

The health benefits of oolong teas are many and varied. The traditional Oolong tea is balanced between green tea and black tea. As such, it brings the traits of both these teas, plus qualities all of its own.

For example, oolong tea contains powerful polyphenols, the antioxidants that fight free radicals.

Free radicals are harmful atoms that cause damage to human cells. The regular oolong tea consumption can improve cognitive performance, reduce anxiety, create stronger, healthier bones, and lower the risk of heart disease.

Is Oolong Tea Consumption Good for You?

You can probably guess that our answer to this question is an emphatic YES! And here’s why:

All the benefits of Oolong tea

For millennia, tea has been known to be the source of a whole range of health benefits, and oolong tea is no exception. Whether it’s to help with eczema or prevent heart disease, oolong teas have a huge following of fans who swear by medicinal qualities.

But those aren’t the only benefits of this delicious beverage: drinking oolong tea consumption helps in weight loss. It is a particularly popular claim with all the science to support it.

A lot of the properties of oolong tea are partly due to the presence of catechins, a special type of flavonoid. The number of benefits contributed to these flavonoids isn’t exactly small.

Oolong tea may lower the risk of cancer, obesity, and heart disease. Drinking at least one cup of oolong tea per day helps prevent diabetes, create stronger, healthier bones, reduce both oxidative and inflammatory stress.

Also, scientists believe it promotes an increase in our cognitive functions.

Besides these awesome health benefits, oolong tea has gained a reputation as one of the best teas to aid weight loss.

Possible Side Effects of Drinking Oolong Tea

The caffeine and polyphenol percentage in an average cup of oolong is almost the same as in green tea. Polyphenols are one of the main reasons why many people consume green and oolong teas since they are potent antioxidants and help fight the so-called free radicals that may harm body cells.

Polyphenols in Oolong tea

However, we are all different. It is possible, although rare, that you might react to the tea consumption in a less beneficial way, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine.