奇种 "Strange Species"
This aged tea is a hand-crafted masterpiece from a wild, uncultivated varietal. Holding the distinction of being the winner of the Aged Tea Competition in Wuyi two years in a row, the "Qi Zhong" species is an original Wuyi rock tea variety endemic to the Wuyi Mountain Nature Reserve. Locally referred to as "Cai Cha" or "vegetable tea," the "strange species" is renowned for its irregular, ever-changing leaves and shapes that make it almost impossible to find two identical tea trees. Through cross-pollination, the Qi Zhong species is highly impacted by its environment, leading to its ever-changing aroma and flavor. It is the source of many revered Wuyi rock tea varieties and a universe of complexity.
Since 2017, the workshop of Ye Qitong, a renowned Intangible Cultural Tea Master, has been carefully crafting our Wu Yi Yan Cha. Ye Qitong selects the best varietals grown in Wu Yi Shan ravine, resulting in Cliff Rock Oolongs, among the finest in China. These teas are distinguished by the age of their trees and expert use of charcoal-firing techniques.
Origin:
Wuyi, China
Cultivar:
Qi Zhong, age unknown
Flavor Profile:
Med/high roast, deep aged aroma, something from a different era, Kiseru tobacco at first, earthy and sweet like Ripe Shou Puerh, medicinal, yet the green taste is still alive! Refined astringency that dances at the front of the palette. Dried plum, aged port, returning sweetness
Servings:
1 single serving for a 120ml Gaiwan
Net weight:
8g