Chinese oolong tea is very different than its green tea relatives.
The brew from Chinese oolongs are darker, taste sweeter, and the aroma is less grassy for some folks. Yet these teas offer practically the same health benefits as green tea along with more powerful calorie burning properties.
Research done on this tea suggests that drinking 2 or 3 cups a day can help maintain healthier looking skin and abate the appearance of aging. It is also a great fat burner, and along with proper exercise, can help one shed some pounds.
Where does Chinese oolong tea grow?
In the Wuyi mountains which are located in the north-western part of the Fujian Province of China, grows fine Chinese oolongs. The jagged-edged mountains which are always blanketed with clouds and fog create perfect growing conditions for these teas.
From the time of the Yuan Dynasty, a Royal Tea Garden was located in these parts where each harvest was offered as tribute to the emperor. From the time of the Ming Dynasty, these fine oolongs where exported, and till this day are in great demand outside of China.
One great Chinese oolong tea called Ti Kuan Yin, which means "Iron Goddess of Mercy", (also grown in the Fujian Province) is considered the best oolong from China. This tea can sell for over one thousand dollars for just one pound!
Compared to Taiwan oolong tea, the Chinese versions are a bit darker in color giving a golden brown liquor...sometimes why the tea is also called "brown tea", and have a more woody and smooth taste.
The appearance of the leaves are also a bit different for they are rolled lengthwise as opposed to the curly-like balls with Taiwanese oolongs.
For me both Chinese oolong tea and Taiwan oolong teas are great and offer many varieties that all go great after meals, and are a good switch from the more consumed green and white teas I have. They're perfect for those continuing their loose leaf tea journey!
