When people hear “Champagne Oolong Tea,” many assume it’s a specialty drink mixed with champagne, but that’s not quite right. Champagne Oolong is simply another name for Oriental Beauty tea.
What is Champagne Oolong Tea?
So-called Champagne Oolong tea is actually our well-known Oriental Beauty tea! In the past, this tea didn’t have a standardized name, so it went by many local monikers, such as “Bragging Tea,” Five-Color Tea, and Baihao Oolong. Though the names differ, they all refer to the exact same tea.
As for the origin of the name “Champagne Oolong,” it is said to stem from a creative twist by Westerners. Legend has it that foreigners loved adding a drop or two of champagne to this oolong tea to enhance its aroma, and over time, the tea came to be known as Champagne Oolong.
Characteristics of Champagne Oolong Tea
The defining characteristic of Champagne Oolong comes from its production method: it must be made from tea leaves nibbled on by the Jacobiasca formosana (small green leafhopper). When the leaves are bitten by these tiny insects, they develop a natural ripe-fruit and honey-like aroma, resulting in a sweet brewed tea rich in fruity notes.
Additionally, Champagne Oolong is the most heavily oxidized of all oolongs, combining the mellow richness of black tea with the refreshing fragrance of oolong. To attract these insects, tea gardens must remain pesticide-free and practically chemical-free, making it widely regarded as a healthy beverage favored by health-conscious tea lovers.
Next time a friend asks you, “What is Champagne Oolong tea?” you can proudly tell them: Champagne Oolong is Oriental Beauty!