Oolong tea is a fresh, flavorful, and aromatic tea grown in the high mountains of Taiwan. Not everyone is familiar with this tea, but experts are, and they consider it one of the best. Here, we'll tell you what high mountain tea is.
Among its organoleptic characteristics is its color, which ranges from red to green. It enjoys a great reputation and is one of the healthiest. It is considered an unoxidized tea (barely 5%), and the green leaves used to make it are delicately processed.
When oxidation is light (between 5% and 15%), it approaches green tea status. The properties of mountain green tea are preserved, the strong flavor and astringency are lost, and the tea remains pure and floral. The taste of this tea is long-lasting and lingers on the taste buds longer.
Why high mountain tea is called that
The quality and flavor of a tea depends on certain factors, one of which is altitude. The higher the altitude, the better the climatic conditions for tea. When there is little sun during the day, very cold night temperatures, humidity, and rain, the plant becomes nutrient-depleted. During the cold nights, the plant grows slowly.
While some teas are harvested at least four times a year, those produced in the high mountains have two harvests (winter and spring). However, it's not just a high-altitude tea that's required; the location is also important, as excessive cold can kill the Camellia sinensis plant.
In the 17th century, Taiwan was discovered to have a favorable climate, so this type of tea is grown in these highlands. High-altitude teas are rare, of high quality, and very expensive. It is in this region that high-mountain teas make their mark.
Properties of high mountain tea
There aren't many differences between teas. They all have similar properties because they come from the same plant, but certain nuances can differentiate them.
Its caffeine content
Most teas rely on the amount of caffeine they contain, although the amount is lower than that of coffee. As a good stimulant, it replaces the molecules in the brain that make us feel tired.
Another benefit is weight loss, increased athletic performance, and protection against cardiovascular disease. However, it's important to know that excessive consumption can cause problems for the body. Because high mountain tea leaves are more mature, they contain less caffeine than white tea.
Theanine
This compound works in conjunction with caffeine, ensuring its effects last a long time and are gradual. It influences mood, emotions, and sleep, improves concentration, and provides a feeling of relaxation.
Antioxidants
High mountain tea contains catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins. Antioxidants are associated with youth and well-being, preventing free radicals that cause cell oxidation.
Promotes digestion
Drinking a cup of Oolong tea helps in the proper functioning of digestive processes.
Helps you lose weight
Oolong green tea burns abdominal fat, regulates cholesterol, and relieves diarrhea. Thanks to its catechin content, it helps with weight loss because it speeds up metabolism and aids digestion.
According to research conducted in China, drinking one cup a day can help you lose up to 3 kilograms per month. However, drinking tea alone isn't enough to lose weight; it must be accompanied by a balanced diet and exercise.
Experts say the best time to drink high mountain tea is after lunch and dinner.
How to prepare high mountain tea
Preparing this tea is very simple, just like preparing any loose leaf tea. First, boil water in the teapot and then pour the oolong tea into it using a strainer. For a perfect brew, let it steep for 5 minutes, so that its flavor will be enhanced and it will acquire its characteristic color.
It's recommended to drink it hot, as it's excellent for digestive health. In the end, you'll get a drink with a sweet, smooth, and long-lasting flavor. Its medicinal properties make it a healthy beverage for everyday consumption.
The tradition of drinking high mountain tea
Drinking mountain green tea is a Taiwanese custom; in fact, it's part of Chinese herbal medicine. Its preparation and the value of the beverage are as important as the tea itself.
The preferred vessels for preparing it are handmade teapots made of unglazed clay. Collectors of Chinese tea art often collect the pots, teacups, and other accessories used for this purpose.
If you travel to Taiwan and drink high mountain tea , you'll notice the way it's prepared. To prepare it, hot water is poured into a pot of dried leaves and then poured into another container. This eliminates dust and other impurities, allowing you to appreciate its pure flavor and delicate aroma.
Drinking high mountain tea is an art. It's more than just drinking it; you must experience its flavor and take the time to do so. This art takes a lifetime to master.
