Can classic Taiwanese oolong tea—Dongding Oolong—be cold brewed? How does the flavor change when it’s cold-brewed? Let’s take a look at the best ways to cold brew Dongding Oolong tea!
Can Dongding Oolong Tea Be Cold Brewed?
Theoretically, any type of tea can be cold brewed, and Dongding Oolong is certainly no exception. However, because its leaves are tightly rolled, it requires a slightly longer steeping time than green tea with the same amount of leaves to fully release its aroma.
When cold-brewed, Dongding Oolong yields a smoother taste with a lighter aroma. Without the robust flavor and sweet aftertaste of hot brewing, the tea aroma becomes more delicate and fruit notes tend to stand out a bit more.
Ideal Tea-to-Water Ratio for Dongding Oolong Tea
Based on our 8-hour cold brew tests, the most convenient Dongding Oolong tea-to-water ratio is 1:110 (1 gram of tea to 110 ml of water). That’s about 9 grams of Dongding Oolong per 1 liter of water. Simply pop it in the fridge to chill for 8 hours, and it’s ready to enjoy.
Additionally, the Tea Research and Extension Station (TRES) in Taiwan has recommended a cold brew guideline for Dongding Oolong with a ratio of 1:50 (1 gram of tea to 50 ml of water), which means 20 grams of Dongding Oolong per 1 liter of water. They also suggest using 4°C cold water and refrigerating for 6 hours.
With the 1:110 ratio and an 8-hour cold brew, you can effortlessly enjoy a refreshing glass of cold-brewed Dongding tea. If you’re looking for an even higher quality brew, try the 1:50 ratio using 4°C cold water and 6 hours of refrigeration to bring out the absolute best in the tea’s aroma.