# The Diversity of Oolong Tea Types

Oolong tea, also known as wulong tea, is a traditional Chinese tea that falls somewhere between green and black tea in terms of oxidation. With its rich history and complex production process, oolong tea offers a wide range of flavors, aromas, and appearances. Let’s explore some of the most notable oolong tea varieties from different regions.

## Main Categories of Oolong Tea

Oolong teas can be broadly classified into several categories based on their oxidation levels and processing methods:

– Lightly oxidized oolongs (10-30% oxidation)
– Moderately oxidized oolongs (30-50% oxidation)
– Heavily oxidized oolongs (50-70% oxidation)
– Charcoal-roasted oolongs

## Famous Oolong Tea Varieties

### 1. Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy)

Originating from Anxi County in Fujian Province, Tie Guan Yin is one of the most famous Chinese oolong teas. This lightly oxidized tea (about 15-20%) is known for its floral aroma and smooth, sweet taste. The leaves are tightly rolled into small balls that unfurl beautifully during brewing.

### 2. Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe)

Hailing from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian, Da Hong Pao is a heavily oxidized (50-70%) and roasted oolong with a rich, mineral flavor profile. This legendary tea comes from ancient tea bushes that are hundreds of years old, with some original plants dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

### 3. Dong Ding Oolong

From Taiwan’s Lugu Township, Dong Ding is a medium-oxidized (25-30%) oolong with a distinctive roasted character. The name means “Frozen Summit” or “Icy Peak,” referring to the high mountain where it’s grown. This tea offers a balance of floral notes and roasted undertones.

### 4. Oriental Beauty (Bai Hao Oolong)

This unique Taiwanese oolong is notable for its natural sweetness, achieved through a special process where tea leaves are bitten by small leafhoppers before harvesting. The insects’ saliva triggers a chemical reaction in the leaves, creating a honey-like flavor. It’s moderately oxidized (50-60%) with beautiful multicolored leaves.

### 5. Phoenix Dan Cong

From Guangdong Province, these single-bush oolongs are famous for their complex aromas that often resemble fruits or flowers. Each tea is made from leaves of a single tea bush, with oxidation levels varying from 20% to 70%. Common aroma types include orchid, almond, and pomelo.

## Regional Differences in Oolong Tea Production

The characteristics of oolong tea vary significantly depending on the region where it’s grown and processed:

### Fujian Oolongs

Fujian Province is considered the birthplace of oolong tea, producing both Anxi-style (like Tie Guan Yin) and Wuyi-style (like Da Hong Pao) oolongs. The teas from this region are known for their mineral complexity and often undergo charcoal roasting.

### Taiwanese Oolongs

Taiwan specializes in high-mountain oolongs grown at elevations above 1,000 meters. These teas tend to be more floral and creamy, with a lighter oxidation level compared to many mainland Chinese oolongs. The cool mountain climate contributes to their delicate flavors.

### Guangdong Oolongs

The Phoenix Mountain region produces the distinctive Dan Cong oolongs, which are prized for their aromatic complexity and ability to produce multiple infusions without losing flavor.

## Choosing the Right Oolong Tea

When selecting an oolong tea, consider these factors:

– Oxidation level: Lighter oolongs are more floral and fresh, while darker ones are richer and more robust
– Roasting: Some oolongs undergo charcoal roasting, adding depth and warmth to the flavor
– Elevation: High-mountain