Lao Cong Shui Xian

A Wuyi rock oolong (武夷岩茶) from old-bush Shui Xian (水仙) trees in the Wuyi Mountains of northern Fujian. The “lao cong” (老枞) marker indicates aged tea bushes — older plants with deeper roots, drawing more mineral character from the cliffs they grow on.

The leaf is robust and green-brown with a jewel-like sheen. Brewed, the liquor pours bright golden. The producer’s tasting notes call out a distinctive orchid fragrance (兰花香), full body, and the pronounced “yan yun” (岩韵) — the rock rhyme that Wuyi tea is known for. Holds up to many infusions.

Brewing. Gaiwan, 100°C, 15 second first steep. Subsequent steeps 10 seconds, extending as the leaves open.

Provenance. Wuyi Star Tea Industrial Co. (武夷星茶业), based in Wuyishan City, Fujian. The Wuyi region is recognised by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site.