Guifei oolong

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Jacobiasca formosana

Guifei Oolong, also known as Concubine Oolong (貴妃烏龍), is a distinctive Taiwanese oolong tea characterized by its unique production process and flavor profile. Originating from Lugu Township in Nantou County, Taiwan, this tea is renowned for its natural honeyed sweetness and complex aroma, resulting from a combination of traditional oolong processing techniques and the influence of leafhopper insect (Jacobiasca formosana) activity.

History and Origin

Guifei Oolong was developed in the early 21st century as an innovative response to challenges faced by tea farmers in Taiwan. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Dongfang Meiren (Oriental Beauty) tea, which also utilizes insect-bitten leaves, Guifei Oolong incorporates similar principles but applies them to the production of rolled oolong teas. The name "Guifei," meaning "noble consort," reflects the tea's elegant character and esteemed status among Taiwanese teas.

Production Process

The production of Guifei Oolong involves several meticulous steps:

• Cultivation Without Pesticides: Tea plants are grown without the use of pesticides to encourage the presence of the tea green leafhopper (Jacobiasca formosana). These insects feed on the sap of young tea leaves and buds, inducing a defensive response in the plant that leads to the development of unique aromatic compounds.
• Insect Interaction: The leafhopper bites initiate partial oxidation in the leaves while still on the plant, contributing to the tea's distinctive honey-like flavor and aroma.
• Harvesting: Typically harvested in the summer months, the timing ensures optimal interaction between the tea plants and leafhoppers.
• Processing: After harvesting, the leaves undergo traditional oolong processing, including withering, tossing, oxidation (approximately 40-50%), fixation, rolling, and drying. A medium roast is often applied to enhance the tea's flavor profile.

Flavor Profile

Guifei Oolong is celebrated for its complex and rich flavor, featuring:

• Aroma: A fragrant bouquet with notes of honey, ripe fruit, and floral undertones.
• Taste: A smooth, sweet taste with hints of honey and a subtle tartness reminiscent of grapefruit.
• Mouthfeel: A velvety texture that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Cultivar and Growing Conditions

This tea is commonly produced from the Jin Xuan (TTES No. 12) and Qing Xin cultivar. The tea gardens are typically situated at elevations around 500 meters, where the climate and environmental conditions are conducive to both tea cultivation and leafhopper activity.

Significance

Guifei Oolong represents a harmonious blend of traditional tea craftsmanship and ecological awareness. By embracing natural pest interactions, Taiwanese tea producers have created a tea that not only offers a unique sensory experience but also reflects sustainable agricultural practices.

See also

• Oriental Beauty (Dongfang Meiren)
• Taiwanese Tea
• Oolong

References

• Tea and Beverage Research Station. Official Website