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Taiwan is recognised worldwide for the excellence of its Oolong teas, particularly those from the high mountains. In autumn 2024, Carine Baudry, Sourcing and Creation Director at nunshen, travelled there to discover new exceptional crus. This exploration took her to the heart of the mountainous regions of Nantou, and more precisely to the Lishan and Alishan mountains, cradles of the island’s finest Oolongs.
Altitude plays an essential role in the unique character of Taiwanese Oolongs. Grown between 1,000 and 2,500 metres in altitude, these teas develop a remarkable aromatic complexity, influenced by a cool climate and persistent mists that slow the growth of the leaves and concentrate their flavours.
During this immersion, Carine Baudry had the opportunity to meet passionate producers, guardians of an ancestral know-how. Each exchange was a source of enrichment, highlighting the importance of terroir, rolling techniques and the degree of oxidation in the creation of an exceptional Oolong.
Carine Baudry — Sourcing and Creation Director at nunshen, sourcing Oolongs in Taiwan
Oolongs stand out for their exceptional aromatic richness. Depending on the degree of oxidation and the method of manufacture, they can develop floral, fruity, woody or even toasted notes.
Lightly oxidised Oolong teas often recall green tea, with notes of white flowers and honey, while heavily oxidised or roasted Oolongs offer flavours of candied fruit, cocoa or hazelnut.
The selection of these three Oolongs responds not only to exceptional quality criteria, but also to a desire to share knowledge. The aim is to offer a sensory experience that helps to better understand the influence of terroir, altitude and cultivar on an Oolong’s aromatic profile.
As in oenology, the choice of cultivar plays a fundamental role in the tea’s identity. The teas presented here illustrate this diversity while retaining a common typicity: light oxidation and a predominant floral profile.
Thus, this exploration of Taiwanese lands revealed rare and authentic teas, testaments to the invaluable know-how of local producers. An invitation to discover and appreciate high-mountain Oolongs, in all their subtlety and refinement.