So-called “authentic Tieguanyin” refers to a partially fermented tea made specifically from the Tieguanyin variety of tea trees. Because Tieguanyin tea trees are delicate and costly to maintain, yields are relatively low. Many Tieguanyin teas on the market are actually “non-authentic” versions made from substitute tea tree varieties. That brings us to the questions: Where can you buy authentic Tieguanyin, and where are its producing regions in Taiwan?
Where to Buy Authentic Tieguanyin? Traditionally Roasted Tieguanyin
If you are looking to buy traditional authentic Tieguanyin—meaning medium-fermented and medium-to-heavily roasted—the most famous producing region in Taiwan is the Muzha tea district in Taipei City. However, to cut costs, some farmers also plant other varieties (such as Sijichun or JinXuan), so be sure to ask carefully before purchasing. Aside from direct tea farmers, you can also buy from local farmers’ associations.
High-Mountain Lightly Fermented Tieguanyin
In addition to traditionally heavy-roasted Tieguanyin, “high-mountain Tieguanyin tea” has also gained popularity in recent years. This style features lightly fermented, unroasted ball-shaped oolong tea. Small amounts are cultivated across several high-mountain tea regions, including ShanLinXi, Alishan, Lishan, the area near Cingjing Farm, Malieba, and Cuifeng. Even so, production remains very small compared to Qingxin Oolong. You can search online for local tea farmers in these regions to make a purchase.
Additionally, the well-known Fushoushan Farm also grows Tieguanyin tea trees, though in very limited quantities. Although Fushoushan Farm sits at a very high altitude, they use a traditional heavy-roast method, bringing its flavor closer to that of the Muzha tea district. You can order Tieguanyin directly from the Fushoushan Farm official website.