Dong Ding Oolong

This is one of our favourite Teas to come from Taiwan. Workers handpick the leaves near the Dong Ding Mountain in Nantou county. When it arrives at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, we then hand-pack it fresh to order. This ensures not only quality but also consistency with every cup of this delicious Formosa Oolong Tea brewed.

Better still, there are benefits to be had from frequently drinking this infusion. Providing one strives for a healthy and active lifestyle, this Tea can improve daily living in small yet significant ways. Studies indeed suggest that it can aid digestion, boost the immune system, improve cardiovascular health and reduce diabetes risks.

What is Oolong Tea?

Oolong is a semi-fermented Tea that can vary in profile, taste and character depending on its oxidation levels. Some have qualities that closely resemble Black Teas. Others have notes more reminiscent of Green Teas. And there are also Teas that sit squarely in the middle between both other types. However, less than 2% of Tea drinkers choose Oolong. This is because these beverages are a relative unknown outside of the East.

Formosa Oolong Tea History

This particular beverage comes from Taiwan, but the story of Oolong begins in mainland China. The details of this tale, however, are scarce. There are indeed a few theories, but none as of yet that most historians can agree on definitively. Yet when it comes to Formosa Oolong Tea, in particular, things are a little different - and clearer.

The potential for a Formosan (present-day Taiwan) Tea Industry began through the Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC). The VOC was a Dutch trading company founded in 1602 that started by selling Formosan commodities such as deer hides, sugar and rice. This changed in 1645 when reports from the time allude to the discovery of wild Tea growing in Formosa.

Additionally, mass immigration from the Chinese mainland saw Tea farmers arrive in Formosa. The VOC encouraged this immigration, believing that the Tea knowledge brought over by these farmers could increase their profits. However, in 1662, the Chinese expelled the Dutch from Formosa. Centuries later, it was the Chinese that took on the building of the island's Tea Industry.

The Chinese Civil War (1927-1936 & 1946-1950) created a controversy that persists today regarding the political status of the island. Despite this uncertainty, Taiwan has continued with widespread Oolong Tea production. Our Dong Ding Oolong is indeed one of the best examples.

Useful Information

Type of Tea: Oolong Tea.

Origin: Nantou County, Taiwan.

Brewing Instructions: Brew with fresh water at temperatures between 75 and 80 degrees. Infuse for 2 to 3 minutes, being sure not to burn or over-brew the leaves.

How to Serve: This Tea suits the addition of lemon. However, most choose to drink it without any accompaniments to appreciate its taste to the fullest.

Tasting Notes: This scrumptious Tea has grassy and herbaceous notes that are consistently smooth and refreshing with every sip.

Colour in Cup: Yellow liquor, light in tone.

Health Benefits of Dong Ding Oolong 

Preliminary research suggests that Oolong Tea can potentially improve bone mineral density and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Dong Ding Oolong, like all Oolongs, contains high levels of magnesium and calcium.

These two beneficial components can aid bone health in several ways. Additionally, it can protect oral health by inhibiting the production of acid and bacteria in the mouth.