Oriental Beauty Hao

Oriental Beauty – Oolong Tea

Origin: Vietnam

Infusion Temperature: 95° Celsius

Infusion Time: 2 minutes

Serving Size: 2 grams/200 ml

Originating from the misty highlands of Môc Châu in Son La province, Vietnam, this exquisite Oriental Beauty Oolong embodies the unique fusion of tradition, terroir, and masterful craftsmanship. Harvested in the summer at 1200 meters above sea level, this tea is a testament to the skill and vision of Mr. Hao, one of Vietnam’s most esteemed tea masters, whose expertise was honed during formative years spent in Taiwan.

Here, he mastered the cultivation techniques and refined the classic Qing Xin (Thanh Tam) cultivar to thrive in the Vietnamese terroir, crafting a tea that is both deeply rooted in heritage and uniquely spontaneous.

The Oriental Beauty crafted by Mr Hao is an embodiment of nature’s spontaneity and the mastery of human hands. Central to its uniqueness is a small cicada like insect that feeds on the sap of the tea leaves while still on the plant. This natural nibbling induces micro-oxidation before harvesting, stimulating the production of special chemical compounds known as terpenes. These terpenes not only contribute to the tea’s intensely aromatic profile but are also associated with various health benefits.

After hand-picking the leaves-rich with several tender buds-the tea undergoes a natural sun-withering phase, followed by a longer oxidation process compared to typical high-mountain oolongs with a high oxidation around 60%-70%. This meticulous treatment results in a tea with a full, rounded body and an exceptionally aromatic bouquet.

The sensory journey of this Oriental Beauty is evocative and deeply memorable. Its aroma captures the warmth of a summer evening gently yielding to autumn, with the soft rustling of dry leaves underfoot. On the palate, the tea unfolds like a blooming flower, revealing an initial fragrant hints of cardamom, a subtle notes of geranium and elderflower, s bright, refreshing lemon nuance. These floral and fruity layers harmonize beautifully, rounded off by a lingering sweetness reminiscent of golden honey and ripe grapes.

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Mr. Hao’s Oriental Beauty, the traditional Gong Fu Cha method is recommended.

Brewing Recommendations:

Gong Fu Cha infusion:

• Use 4.5 grams of tea leaves per 100 ml of water heated to 95°C
• Begin with a 30-second infusion, increasing by a few seconds with each subsequent brew.
• Expect to enjoy 4 to 5 rich infusions that evolve in character.

Western Style infusion:

• Use 2 grams of tea leaves per 200 ml of water at 95°C.
• Steep for approximately 2 minutes.
• Extending the infusion time by 30 seconds with each additional brew.

Mr. Hao’s Oriental Beauty Oolong is not just a tea; it is a poetic expression of nature’s generosity, cultural heritage, and artisan skill. Its complexity, both aromatic and gustatory, offers tea enthusiasts a rare glimpse into Vietnam emerging highland tea culture, blending Taiwanese tradition with local terroir. For those seeking a richly aromatic, full-bodied oolong with a dynamic and evolving flavor profile, this tea is a truly unforgettable experience.