Biluxi tea is a premium Taiwanese high mountain tea produced in Ren’ai Township, Nantou County. Grown along the Central Cross-Island Highway between 95k and 99k, it has historically been considered on par with Dayuling tea. Biluxi tea is primarily crafted as lightly fermented oolong tea.
Biluxi Tea: On Par with Dayuling
Dayuling tea is produced at the Central Cross-Island Highway between 100k and 105.5k, while Biluxi tea is located between 95k and 99k. Due to their close proximity and similar climatic conditions, the two share comparable quality. Because Biluxi tea is relatively more affordable, it is often used as an alternative to Dayuling tea. Even so, the retail price of Biluxi tea still ranges from NT$4,000 to NT$6,000 per 600 g (2023 market price).
Read more: Introduction to Dayuling Tea Region
The tea gardens for Biluxi tea sit at altitudes between 2,000 and 2,200 meters, trailing only HuaGung, Dayuling, and Fushoushan, placing it firmly among the elite tier of Taiwan’s high mountain tea origins. Known for its low bitterness, high sweetness, and distinct orchid aroma, it is highly sought after by tea enthusiasts.
Tea Gardens Shrinking Year by Year
Much like Dayuling tea, Biluxi tea faces the issue of tea gardens being reclaimed by the government. Since 2015, the plantation area has steadily decreased, leaving only two tea gardens in the 95k to 99k section today. With a seasonal yield of only about 600 kg, supply falls far short of demand. In recent years, local tea insiders have included the tea gardens from the 85k to 90k section of the Central Cross-Island Highway into the Biluxi tea origin. These gardens sit at elevations between 1,900 and 2,200 meters, yielding about 6,000 kg per season. Yet even with this added volume, the demand for Biluxi tea still vastly outweighs production.
Biluxi Tea Pricing
Spring and winter harvests from the 95k to 99k section retail for NT$5,000 to NT$6,000 per 600 g, while the 85k to 90k section retails for NT$4,000 to NT$5,000 per 600 g. Autumn tea is relatively more affordable, retailing at NT$2,000 to NT$3,000 per 600 g (2023 market prices).
Liao Chang Xing's Review of Biluxi Tea
Highly praised, the quality is unquestionably top-tier. Thanks to the exceptional altitude, favorable orientation, and pristine forest environment, Biluxi tea reaches the highest standards of quality. However, due to its scarce production and high price, the market is flooded with counterfeits, so extra caution is advised when purchasing.