Ying Xiang

This Ying Xiang Oolong from Master Liao Wei-Chun (aka Ryan) stands out for its clean and well-crafted profile. Made from the Ying Xiang cultivar (Tai Cha #20), this half-rolled tea offers a rich, woody aroma balanced by a creamy smoothness. Fruity notes unfold alongside subtle vegetal notes reminiscent of spinach and asparagus, with earthy undertones of coffee and tobacco leaves. As the tea cools, a delicate red fruit aroma emerges.

The cultivar of this tea is a cross between Qing Xin Oolong and 2022-Strain, giving it a distinctive creamy character in addition to the typical Qing Xin flavor, making it a unique experience even for Taiwan Oolong lovers.

Written by Mauzi

 

The tea master

Liao Wei-Chun, based in Taipei City, is a distinguished student of Huangtan Chen, known in the Western world as Atong, arguably Taiwan’s most renowned tea expert. Master Chen’s tea classes at the community college in Taipei attract numerous enthusiasts, yet only two students have the privilege of teaching alongside him. Master Wei-Chun is one of these select few.
With extensive connections throughout Taiwan, Master Wei-Chun dedicates much of the harvest season to visiting various tea gardens, where he processes tea in small batches. He possesses a deep expertise in traditional Oolong processing, yet he is also known for his innovative spirit, experimenting with new leaf varieties and processing techniques. This modern approach, coupled with the solid foundation inherited from Master Chen, yields impressive results. The consistency and quality of his exceptional teas are unparalleled in our tea sourcing journey.
During the tea off-season, Master Wei-Chun can often be found in ski resorts in Japan, where he teaches downhill skiing.


  • ORIGIN: Pinglin, New Taipei City, Taiwan
  • MEANING: Welcoming Scent (ying xiang)
  • CULTIVAR: Ying Xiang (Tai Cha #20)
  • HARVEST TIME: 20 April 2023
  • TASTE: Wood, aspargus, red fruits

IN THE TEAPOT
  • Quantity: 6g / 500ml
  • Water temperature: 100°C
  • Infusion time: 5 min
GONGFU CHA METHOD
  • Quantity: 5g / 100ml
  • Water temperature: 100°C
  • 5 infusions: 30, 30, 45, 45, 60 sec

For best results in gongfu cha, brew in the traditional gaiwan or in a Yixing teapot.