Oriental Beauty Chiang Mai

Oriental Beauty Chiang Mai – Oolong Tea

Origin: Thailand

Infusion Temperature: 90° Celsius

Infusion Time: 2-3 minutes

Serving Size: 2 grams/200 ml

Originating from the misty mountains of Doi Ang Khan in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, this exceptional Oriental Beauty Oolong cultivar called “Jin Shi Da Pa” presents a sublime infusion that balances delicate honeyed sweetness with subtle fruity undertones. Harvested in August at an impressive altitude of 1200 meters, this tea exemplifies the superior quality attainable in high-elevation tea gardens where cool temperatures and ideal climatic conditions nurture the leaves to perfection.

Oriental Beauty Oolong is celebrated for its remarkable honeyed aroma complemented by light fruity notes that linger gracefully on the palate. Its approximately 70% medium-high oxidation creates a smooth, mellow character with minimal theine, making it a refreshing and soothing tea suitable for enjoying throughout the day. Each sip feels like a gentle caress, offering both hydration and delight in every cup.

What sets Oriental Beauty apart is its distinctive processing influenced by nature itself. The tea leaves are naturally nibbled by the leafhopper (Jacobiasca formosana), whose tiny bites induce micro-oxidation spots visible on the leaves. These small, characteristic marks contribute to the tea’s signature sweetness and complex honeyed flavor profile. Because of the vital role of these insects, Oriental Beauty teas are almost always organically grown, as the use of pesticides would deter or eliminate these essential creatures and alter the tea’s unique qualities.

The history of this tea is deeply intertwined with Thailand’s post-war agricultural transformation. In the years following World War II, Northern Thailand suffered widespread poverty, with many communities relying on opium cultivation, which caused significant social challenges. To foster sustainable development, King Bhumibol Adulyadej initiated the Royal Project Foundation in the 1970s, aimed at promoting diversified and eco-friendly agriculture as an alternative livelihood.

Tea cultivation was a key focus of the project, leveraging the Northern Thai highlands’ proximity to the renowned tea producing regions of Southern China and Laos. The favorable climate and fertile terrain have since supported the growth of some of the finest teas in the region, including this remarkable Oriental Beauty.

The Oriental Beauty Oolong has delicate yet complex flavor with honeyed sweetness and fruity highlights. Low theine content, ideal for multiple infusions and daily enjoyment. Sustainably and organically cultivated, supporting ecological balance and local communities.

For the best experience, we recommend the traditional Gong Fu Cha method, which allows you to fully appreciate the tea’s evolving flavors over multiple short infusions.

Brewing Recommendations:

• Use approximately 5-6 grams of leaves per 120 ml Gaiwan or teapot.
• Infuse with water at 90-95°C
• Start with 20-30 second infusions, increasing slightly with each subsequent brew.
• Enjoy 4 to 5 infusions to unlock the full depth of aroma and taste.

The Oriental Beauty Oolong from Chiang Mai is an elegant tribute to the harmony between nature and tradition. Its rich backstory, combined with the unique influence of the leafhopper and the high-altitude terroir, makes this tea a treasure for both the discerning connoisseur and those seeking a gentle, flavorful daily companion. Discover the subtle sweetness and floral notes that make this tea a true jewel of Northern Thailand’s tea culture.