2024 Wuliang Mountain Ruan Zhi Black Tea from Yunnan

Grown at an elevation of 2100 meters on the pristine Wuliang Mountain in Yunnan, this black tea is crafted from the Ruan Zhi Wu Long cultivar, a tea tree variety with a remarkable history. This cultivar originated from “Ai Jiao Wu Long” (Short Foot Oolong) in Anxi, Fujian, which was introduced to Taiwan in 1855 by Lin Fengchi. Over time, it was carefully cultivated and developed in Taiwan, becoming known as Ruan Zhi Wu Long (Soft Branch Oolong), referencing the tea plant’s characteristic soft branches. In 2000, this treasured cultivar was introduced to Wuliang Mountain, where the high-altitude environment, fertile soil, and unique climate conditions fostered its growth.

While spring leaves are traditionally processed into Taiwanese-style oolong, the late-spring and early-summer harvest lends itself perfectly to black tea production. Leveraging years of refinement by Taiwanese tea masters, this tea was harvested in June 2024 and crafted using a specialized black tea technique tailored to the local terroir. It combines the aromatic elegance of the Ruan Zhi Wu Long cultivar with the robust, full-bodied character of Yunnan’s highland terroir.

The liquor is bright and rich, with a pronounced floral aroma. The taste is smooth and full-bodied, delivering a harmonious balance of fruity sweetness, mellow depth, and a clean, lingering finish. The tea remains refreshing and flavorful over multiple infusions, with little to no bitterness or astringency. Enjoy this rare black tea — a perfect marriage of tradition, innovation, and terroir.