Among the many different kinds of oolong teas, Zhangping Shuixian is one of the most remarkable, and the only traditionally pressed oolong in China.
To make this beautiful square-shaped tea, pickers select only the strongest leaves from the Shuixian cultivar, which are able to withstand the pressing process. After picking, the leaves are shaken in bamboo baskets to activate a light oxidation that turns the edges of the tea leaves red and creates a traditional floral aroma. The leaves are then pressed using a wooden utensil that shapes them into squares.
During infusions, the tightly rolled leaves unfurl in the boiling water, opening up like a blooming flower, releasing the most intense and inebriating floral bouquet. The air is immediately filled with a floral fragrance that ranges from elegant orchids to narcissus, magnolia, or gardenia. Each bag contains 8 individually-wrapped tea squares of approx. 10g. each.
Our Zhangping Shuixian is selected by golden medal awarded tea master Tong Shaoming 童哨明.
SUGGESTED BREWING METHODS
DETAILED BREWING
Quantity: 1 tea square for each 100-250ml. teapot
Rinse: Before starting the infusion, drop the tea leaves in the teapot and cover them with boiling water for a few seconds. Then pour out all the liquid but leave the tea leaves in the teapot. Now add hot water to the teapot to make the first brew. (This method allows the tea leaves to rehydrate and to release a more intense brew.)
Brewing time: Begin with a 20 second brew. Increase with each successive brew as needed.
Water temperature: about 85-100°C or 185-212°F
SIMPLE BREWING
Quantity: 1 tea square for each 100-250ml. teapot
Brewing time: 3-4 minutes
Water temperature: about 85-100°C or 185-212°F
COLD BREW
Quantity: 1 tea square for each 100-250ml. teapot
Brewing: Put the tea leaves in room-temperature water and steep for 7-8 hours. Filter the liquor and drink within 24 hours.
