2024 Autumn Qing Xiang Tie Guan Yin Oolong Tea

2024 Qing Xiang Clear Fragrant Tie Guan Yin (清香鐵觀音) Tie Guan Yin, one of the most renowned semi-fermented oolong teas from the southern region of Fujian, is named after the revered Chinese Iron Goddess of Mercy.  “Qing Xiang” which means “clear fragrant.” in Chinese. This autumn batch of Qing Xiang Tie Guan Yin is very refreshing, at the same time very strong aroma with lingering sweetness. What is the differences between Qing Xiang(Clear Fragrance) and Nong Xiang(Heavy Fragrance) Tie Guan Yin? Tie Guan Yin tea can be classified into two main types: Qing Xiang (Clear Fragrance) and Nong Xiang (Rich Fragrance), based on the level of oxidation achieved through different green-making and roasting processes during production. Qing Xiang (Clear Fragrance) Tie Guan Yin: Compared to Nong Xiang Tie Guan Yin, Qing Xiang has a lighter oxidation and roasting level. It undergoes a gentler and lighter shaking of the leaves, along with a longer withering time, resulting in a lower level of oxidation. It is then lightly roasted at temperatures usually around 50-70°C.  The dry leaves exhibit a lighter and bright green color, while the tea liquor appears as a light yellow-green hue. The flavor profile is characterized by a clear, sweet floral aroma with notes of orchids. Nong Xiang (Heavy Fragrance) Tie Guan Yin: Compared to Qing Xiang Tie Guan Yin, Qing Xiang has a higher oxidation and roasting level. It involves a heavier shaking of the leaves and a shorter withering time, leading to a medium level of oxidation. It is then charcoal roasted at temperatures typically ranging from 120-180°C. This results in darker green leaves with a brown tone and a tea liquor that displays a darker golden amber color. The flavor profile of Nong Xiang Tie Guan Yin is robust and stronger compared to Qing Xiang, with noticeable charcoal and roasted notes, along with floral and fruity undertones. It may also exhibit flavors reminiscent of roasted nuts and rice. In summary, the differences between Qing Xiang and Nong Xiang Tie Guan Yin lie in the level of oxidation, the intensity of roasting, and the resulting flavor profiles. Qing Xiang offers a lighter and clearer fragrance, while Nong Xiang presents a richer and more robust aroma. Harvest Time: 2024 Autumn Weight: 50g/ 100g/ 250g Varietal: Tie Guan Yin Tea Farm Location: Tea Farm at Anxi, Fujian Province, China Tasting Notes: sweet floral notes with lingering finish, unique “Yin” flavor” specially found in Tie Guan Yin Tea. Tea Liquor Colour: bright and clear yellowish-green colour Dry Leaves: bright green rolled shape like a dragonfly head Wet Leaves: Green, thick and spiral shaped, sometimes with broken red edge on the leaves