Ya Shi Xiang

Ah, Ya Shi Xiang—the comic treasure of the tea world. This oolong has the dubious distinction of being the only Dancong to be named after a scent it not only doesn't possess, but which is an unpleasant one at that. Whether a gaffe or an attempt at dissuasion (legends abound), it instead exudes the wonderfully aromatic mélange of stone fruit, cream, and minerality typical of the type.

In this version, the roast remains firmly within the bouquet style—lifted, airy, and tuned to preserve the cultivar’s natural exuberance. The aromatics open with bright nectarine and succulent stone fruit, carried on a soft, almost confectionary warmth that recalls light brown sugar without becoming heavy. A gentle, sparkling astringency keeps everything buoyant, while a subtle mentholic whisper lingers at the edges, adding refreshment rather than weight.

Effortlessly fragrant yet surprisingly brisk, it’s the sort of Dancong that vanishes one cup at a time.

Written by Dominik