What is Osmanthus Oolong Tea? - Liao Chang Xing Tea

Osmanthus Oolong tea is a reprocessed tea made with tightly rolled oolong as the base tea, scented with fresh osmanthus flowers using traditional jasmine tea scenting techniques, ultimately blending the rich aroma of oolong with the sweet fragrance of osmanthus.

The Origins of Osmanthus Oolong Tea

Much like Osmanthus Pouchong, Osmanthus Oolong tea evolved from jasmine tea. Traditional jasmine scented tea originally used green tea and jasmine flowers as raw materials, but over time, other floral varieties and tea types were introduced to the craft. In the late 19th century, Wu Fu-lao, a tea merchant from Fujian, came to Taiwan to found the “Yuanlong” tea factory, setting the precedent for making osmanthus tea using Taiwanese oolong as a base.

How Osmanthus Oolong Tea is Made

Osmanthus oolong tea is crafted using a traditional scenting technique similar to jasmine tea:

A layer of oolong tea is spread over fresh osmanthus flowers.
Under specific temperature and humidity conditions, the tea leaves gradually absorb the fragrance of the osmanthus.
Depending on the quality of the blossoms, the ratio of oolong tea to osmanthus ranges from 3:1 to 6:4.
The result is a harmonious osmanthus oolong tea that blends the refined aroma of oolong with the sweet fragrance of osmanthus.

How to Brew Osmanthus Oolong Tea

Osmanthus oolong tea offers both the elegant aroma of oolong and the sweet floral notes of osmanthus. For hot brewing, use about 6 g of osmanthus oolong tea per 100 ml of water, and steep for 60–90 seconds. Add 20 seconds for each subsequent steep.

Compared to jasmine tea, osmanthus oolong has a slightly subtler aroma but boasts a more exceptional, sweet flavor profile. Drinking it in moderation can also help soothe the mind, promote relaxation, and freshen your breath.