Shui Xian

Description

Shui Xian Tea Heritage

• Fujian tea heritage – deeply rooted in the long tradition of oolong tea production in Fujian, China
• Wuyi tea tradition – closely associated with the famous Wuyi Mountains and the world of traditional rock oolong teas
• Shui Xian cultivar – made from the renowned Shui Xian tea variety, valued for its aromatic depth and full character
• Traditional craftsmanship – careful withering, rolling, oxidation, and roasting develop the tea’s distinctive personality
• Classic oolong character – beautifully positioned between green and black tea, offering complexity, richness, and depth

Flavour Profile & Characteristics

• Roasted character – warm, toasted notes provide depth and satisfying richness
• Woody nuances – subtle woody and mineral tones contribute to its distinctive personality
• Natural sweetness – gentle sweetness balances the deeper roasted flavours
• Mineral character – a refined mineral quality associated with traditional Wuyi-style oolong teas
• Long, lingering finish – layers of flavour continue to develop well after each sip

Traditional Shui Xian Oolong

• Distinctive leaf character – larger, mature leaves contribute body and depth to the finished tea
• Careful oxidation – develops the tea’s characteristic aromatic complexity
• Traditional roasting – enhances warmth, sweetness, depth, and persistence
• Layered flavour – each infusion can reveal different aromatic and flavour nuances
• Excellent re-steeping potential – the leaves can be infused repeatedly while continuing to release flavour

Wuyi Mountain Terroir

• Rocky mountain environment – mineral-rich landscapes contribute to the character associated with traditional rock oolongs
• Distinctive terroir – soil, rock formations, water, climate, and elevation influence the finished tea
• Misty mountain conditions – natural mountain weather creates favourable conditions for tea cultivation
• Fujian origin – part of one of China’s most important regions for traditional oolong production
• Rock tea tradition – reflects the craftsmanship and flavour style associated with Wuyi Yancha

From Leaf to Cup

• Selective harvesting – appropriate mature leaves are carefully picked for processing
• Withering – allows the fresh leaf to soften and begin developing its aromatic character
• Rolling and shaping – helps release the leaf’s natural compounds and prepares it for oxidation
• Controlled oxidation – creates the characteristic balance between freshness, richness, and depth
• Roasting – carefully applied heat develops the tea’s warm, toasted, woody, and mineral qualities

Perfect For

• Oolong enthusiasts – ideal for those who appreciate rich and traditional Chinese oolong teas
• Tea connoisseurs – an excellent choice for exploring classic Wuyi-style tea character
• Gongfu brewing – particularly enjoyable when prepared through multiple short infusions
• After meals – its rich, warming character makes it a satisfying tea to enjoy after food
• Mindful tea sessions – layered and complex enough to reward slow, attentive tasting

Brewing Instructions

• Water temperature: 195-205°F (90-96°C)
• Steeping time: 3-5 minutes for Western-style brewing
• Tea amount: 1 tsp per 8oz cup
• Gongfu brewing: Use approximately 5-7g per 100-120ml of water with short successive infusions
• Best served: Plain to fully appreciate the roasted, woody, mineral, and naturally sweet character

The Art of Traditional Oolong

• Careful leaf selection – mature, healthy leaves provide the foundation for a full and expressive cup
• Skilled oxidation – careful control creates balance between aromatic freshness and deeper flavours
• Traditional roasting – develops the tea’s characteristic warmth and complexity
• Layered character – the tea evolves through repeated infusions, revealing new nuances
• Craftsmanship over time – careful processing allows the natural character of the Shui Xian leaf to shine

Authentic Chinese Oolong Character

• Chinese oolong heritage – rooted in the centuries-old tea culture of Fujian
• Shui Xian cultivar – recognised for its rich aromatic and full-bodied character
• Roasted depth – warm toasted and woody notes create a satisfying cup
• Mineral complexity – a refined mineral character adds depth and structure
• Lingering finish – persistent flavour makes it particularly rewarding for multiple infusions