
Coffee Spotlight
Ti Kwan Yin Organic Oolong Tea
Author | groundwork coffee Date | October 18, 2016
Background: Legend has it that a goddess gifted this tea to a poor farmer for repairing her temple containing an iron statue. In her honor the farmer named the tea Ti Kwan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy). This tea is a premium variety of oolong originating in the southern part of the Fujian province. It is differentiated from other Oolong teas by a secretive processing methodology consisting of many steps of withering, rolling, oxidation, and high-heat fixation to maintain its distinctively complex floral aromas and nutty flavors.
Ti Kwan Yin generally falls into two categories based on the level of roasting —named after the region each type originates from. Anxi Tieguanyin is reminiscent of Green tea with less oxidation and, therefore, a fresh, floral aroma and delicate flavor. The Anxi variety is what we are currently sourcing for our specialty tea program. Muzha Tieguanyin, on the other hand, is roasted and boasts a stronger, nuttier flavor and reddish-brown color.
In the Cup: This organic Chinese Oolong tea is sweet and floral with notes of toasted chestnuts and dried apricots.
Perfect Brew: Brew at 185-200°F for at least 3 minutes for a crisp, light flavor. The longer you steep, the nuttier and fruiter your brew will be. Typically, 4-5 minutes is ideal.
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