Red Oolong Tea, which is also called Black Oolong Tea or Dark Oolong Tea, is an excellent yet unique variety that carries the characteristics of both black and oolong teas. Red Oolong Tea is able to attract tea enthusiasts worldwide with its rich and sturdy flavors and fascinating fragrance, making the entire experience complex and highly invigorating.
In this article, we will dive deep into the world of red oolongs, where we will explore their history and origins, the production process, their flavor profile, and how they have risen to fame amongst tea enthusiasts worldwide.
History and Origins of Red Oolong Tea
When studying Red Oolong Tea, you can trace its roots back to Taiwan. It was discovered late in the 20th century when tea farmers in Taiwan initiated an experiment with new processing techniques for the sake of creating a unique tea with a distinct flavor and aroma.
As a result of this, they made different types like the Luye Red Oolong and the Si Ji Chun, which translates to “four seasons’, etc. After experimenting for some time, they were able to deduce that if they increased the oxidation level and roasted the dry leaves heavily, a new, distinct variety of oolong tea would be produced that would have sturdy and intense flavors.
This is what led to the birth of Red Oolong Tea
. However, the Wu family farm in the Luye valley was responsible for perfecting this variation.
The Red Oolong Tea discovery was based on an innovation where the tea farmers wanted to produce a variety that would stand out in the market and entertain consumers. When oolong and black tea were combined together, tea enthusiasts were intrigued, and hence it was able to gain popularity in Taiwan.
Production Process of Red Oolong Tea
Producing Red Oolong Tea requires time and high expertise throughout each step of the process. It begins by harvesting the tea leaves from renowned cultivars such as Hong Xin or Qing Xin.
Then, the tea leaves have to undergo the processes of withering, rolling, oxidation, and roasting. The process of oxidation is the reason for the popularity of Red Oolong Tea, which is why it must be carried out with care.
It is important to note that since it is a combination of black and oolong tea, the oxidation level should be 30% to 70%. The heavy oxidation process is responsible for the characteristic flavor of Red Oolong Tea. Once the process of oxidation is concluded, the tightly rolled leaves are sent for roasting.
Furthermore, the process of roasting is carried out at very high temperatures. The roasting process contributes to the warm and toasty aroma of Red Oolong Tea.
Flavor Profile of Red Oolong Tea
Red Oolong Tea is able to cast its consumers under an enchantment with its sturdy and unique flavors. When you finish brewing, you will get a reddish-brown liquor that will give off a soft, toasty aroma.
After taking a sip, you can appreciate the blend of floral and fruity flavors mixed with woody notes with shades of honey and caramel. As mentioned earlier, the length of the oxidation process is responsible for adding depth and uniqueness to the flavor profile of Red Oolong Tea.
It is further enhanced by roasting the tea leaves which adds a warm sensation after each sip. In the end, you will get a cup of soothing beverage that will have your taste buds dancing and leaving a lingering aftertaste which would allow you to hold it in high regard.
Growth in Popularity
Recently, Red Oolong Tea has seen exponential growth in its popularity as tea enthusiasts have shared their appreciation online. However, it didn’t happen overnight, but there are many factors that have contributed to a rise in its fame.
The primary reasons for its recent success are its unique flavor profile and its warm toasty aroma that captivates the mind of the consumer. The experts partially oxidize the tea leaves and then roast them at high temperatures which gives Red Oolong Tea its distinctive traits which appeal to tea enthusiasts worldwide.
The consumers are vexed with its sturdy taste that offers an excellent combination of floral and fruity notes added with woody notes. Furthermore, you can also taste the hint of honey and caramel that further add sweetness to this soothing beverage.
The unorthodox flavor of Red Oolong Tea has tea enthusiasts drooling over it worldwide. They get to taste a magnificent union between black and oolong tea.
Conclusion
Red Oolong Tea provides a smooth and rich experience to tea enthusiasts that seek new unique flavors to appeal to their palates. When the better of two worlds (black tea and oolong tea) are brought together, it results in a unique beverage that is guaranteed to attract you.
Since the time it is harvested in the mountains of Taiwan, its production process is monitored by experts who are able to showcase the excellent tea craftsmanship of the farmers.
Furthermore, the woody aroma and sturdy flavor of Red Oolong Tea stand out in the world of tea, where new consumers are attracted to it each day. We can guarantee a drinking experience unlike anything you would have experienced before, and we can promise it would be both stimulating and memorable.