Lan Xiang Shui Xian 蘭香水仙 dark wulong tea (rock tea) we have sourced from Chengdun town, Wuyi Shan, North Fujian Province, China. This semi-roasted wulong (oolong) has a delicate orchid aroma (hence its name in Chinese), a dominant Qi energy, and a complex, rich fruity flavor profile with plum notes. Liquor is thick and huigan leaves a great texture hardly astringent.

Traditionally made from the native Shui Xian 水仙 variety grown on tall tea trees (gao cong 高樅) 30-40 years of age, unlike most yan cha cultivars which are grown on younger bushes. Hand-picked in mid-April 2023, this tea is graded as "half-rock" because of the farm location. The leaves underwent double roasting over charcoal for 12 hours at 100°C, a slower roasting process than average, characterized by a fruity aroma with less charcoal flavor, befitting an aromatic variety like Shui Xian.

This budget-friendly version offers high value for money, being one of the most prestigious and sought-after teas in China today. We also offer two premium versions from the core of Wuyi Shan range, grown on ancient trees over 60 years old: Lao Cong Shui Xian Red 2022 and Lao Cong Shui Xian Oolong 2023 - both among the highest graded teas we've ever sources so far.

The tea is packed in thick aluminum bags, with each portion packed individually (8g), and is designed for aging for at least 3-4 more years without the need for additional roasting. Beyond that, it’s a matter of taste. The tea participated in our blind tasting club in winter 2023, through which we shared its story and the recent revival of the Shui Xian variety in China.

Suitable for drinking as a hot or cold brew (click here for cold brew instructions).