Tie Guan Yin is one of the most popular types of oolong tea. Oolong teas are semi-oxidized, which puts them in a category of their own somewhere between green and black teas in flavor and appearance. Whats great is they contain both of the health benefits of green and black tea! The intricate level of oxidation creates a complex flavor profile. It also be roasted, adding to its complexity. Depending on the production process, Tie Guan Yin can be rich and floral, or deep and toasty.
Tie Guan Yin Tea originated in the Anxi region of Fujian China in the 19th century. This amazing oolong tea variety is still grown there today. The leaves are from the Tie Guan Yin tea plant variety, although others are sometimes also used. The leaves are rolled into a tight semi-balled shape, which slowly unfurl as you steep the tea in hot water. It is an aromatic tea that can be steeped several times, allowing the leaves to completely open up, and release their bouquet of flavors.