2024 Ya Shi Xiang “Duck Shit Aroma” Dancong Oolong Tea

Ya Shi Xiang (鸭屎香, Duck Shit Aroma) is one of the most intriguing Dancong varieties, known for its creamy texture and floral notes. This tea is grown in Dongjiao Village at an elevation of 750 meters and is traditionally processed and roasted three times.

The peculiar name of this tea stems from a clever tale told by a local farmer in Fengxi Village. To protect his prized tea tree from being cut or stolen, he spread a story that the distinctive yellowish-brown color of the soil came from duck excrement. Over time, this tale not only kept the tea tree safe but also lent the variety its unique name.

Despite its name, Ya Shi Xiang offers a naturally sweet flavor with a soft, smooth texture. The tea leaves are dark and glossy, producing a fragrant, floral aroma with hints of almond and honeysuckle. The liquor is a clear, pale yellow, providing a sweet and lingering aftertaste that is both elegant and long-lasting.

The aroma of Ya Shi Xiang is often categorized under the Xing Ren Xiang (Almond Aroma) type, but it also contains complex floral notes. The tea's rich aroma, combining elements of gardenia flower, honeysuckle, natural freshness, and nutty notes, provides a distinctive and memorable drinking experience.