Oolong Formosa Tea

Oolong Formosa is a Specialty Tea originating from the vast mountains of Taiwan. It’s our House Oolong, which, when brewed, consists of a mild aroma with traditionally grassy flavours. After harvesting, these large, wild, curly leaves undergo fermentation and oxidation to approximately 50%.

This makes it a so-called ‘in-between’ Tea, meaning it sits in the middle of Green and Black Tea in terms of processing. We pack it fresh to order here at our Kent-based factory.

What’s more, this nourishing, invigorating beverage comes with Oolong Tea Benefits. This is according to the latest scientific research, which notes that Oolong can aid digestion and improve heart health. Additionally, there are suggestions that it can promote weight loss by boosting the metabolism of fat cells. Pretty neat for your morning cuppa, wouldn’t you agree?

A Brief History of Formosa Tea

During the 14th Century, Portuguese sailors dubbed what we today know as Taiwan as “Formosa”, which means “beautiful island”. Located 100 miles from the southeast coast of mainland China, it started producing Tea in only the mid-19th Century. This coincided with Chinese Qing dynasty rule (1644-1912 CE), a time of great political upheaval.

A British merchant and entrepreneur named John Dodd (1839-1907) essentially kicked-started the Formosan (now Taiwanese) Tea Industry during the 1860s. He transported Tea bushes from the Chinese Fujian province to Taiwan with his associate, Li Chunsheng.

Together, John Dodd and Li Chunsheng persuaded local farmers to increase the cultivation of Tea by providing financial support. This, in turn, gave rise to the establishment of numerous plantations and factories in and around the Formosan capital of Taipei.

The Tea movement in Formosa during the late 1800s coincided with mass-immigration from China’s eastern mainland provinces. These immigrants came equipped with centuries of Tea-producing knowledge passed down through generations. During this time, and even still today, Oolong Tea production reigned supreme in Formosa/Taiwan.

Useful Information

Type of Tea: Oolong Tea.

Origin: Taiwan.

Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water left to cool to temperatures between 80 and 90°C. Infuse for 2 to 3 minutes.

How to Serve: Best served without additions.

Tasting Notes: Embrace traditional ‘Oolong’ flavours with particularly grassy undertones.

Colour in Cup: Golden-yellow liquor, light in tone.

Health Benefits of Oolong Formosa Tea

According to research, Oolong Formosa can alkalise the digestive tract, reducing inflammation in those with acid reflux and ulcer problems.

Additionally, some scientists believe that it’s antiseptic, meaning it could clear harmful bacteria in the stomach. And if that wasn’t enough, there are suggestions that it can improve skin health!