What is Oriental Beauty Oolong?
Oriental Beauty (Bai Hao) is a unique variety of Formosa (Taiwanese) oolong, with an interesting, ‘organic’ method of cultivation associated with it. Skilled tea farmers pick the leaves of the tea plant in the summer months (June and July), choosing only those that have been bitten by a tiny insect known as the leafhopper (Jacobiasca formosana). Science backs this up; when bitten by this insect – considered a pest in most other parts of the world – the Bai Hao plant produces certain hormones that impart a unique flavor to the tea leaves. Successfully harvesting a batch of Oriental Beauty oolong is no less than precision work. Pesticides cannot be used, lest they kill the leaf hoppers. And the leaves have to be carefully chosen based on the number of insect bites on them.
What kind of tea is it?
Every batch of Oriental Beauty is the result of hard work and specialist cultivation. But the result is highly rewarding. The leaves are gorgeous to look at, presenting shades of white, green, gold, browns and reds. They make a beautiful infusion as well, producing a clear, bright, amber colored liquor. Oriental Beauty is a heavily oxidized Formosa oolong, its oxidation scale (65%-85%) placing it very close to black teas. It is slightly sweet and velvety smooth, its flavor commonly referred to as “peach and honey”.
Tasting notes
Oriental Beauty oolong is primarily known for its sweet, “intoxicating” aroma and “honeyed undertones”. The taste is often described as “autumnal”, thanks to its hints of fruits, spices and roasted nuts. Its “citrusy, spicy flavor” is accompanied by “a brown sugar like sweetness” and an “agreeable amount of astringency”. The overall floral palate balances the earthiness of the tea, making it “strong, but not overpowering”.
Tea tips
Taiwanese Oriental Beauty Oolong leaves will have characteristic white furry tips. They can be used for multiple infusions, though it is best to not steep them for too long, as this can lead to a bitter taste in your cup. Depending on the strength of the brew you’re going for, adjust the amount of tea you use rather than its steeping time. It is also advisable to use fresh water at about 85°C to brew your batch of Oriental Beauty oolong.
(see our top 3 picks below)
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Top 3 Best Bai Hao Oolongs To Buy Online
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Oriental Beauty Oolong Tea (Stash Tea)
Oolong tea. Oriental Beauty is a rare tea, grown exclusively in the Northwestern region of Taiwan. Often called Champagne Oolong, it is smooth and subtle without astringency or bitterness. It yields a beautiful floral fragrance with slightly sweet honey notes. Sip it plain to savor its ...
Formosa Bai Hao
Formosa Bai Hao is known by many names - Oriental Beauty, White Tip Oolong, Champagne oolong and Fancy Formosa Silver Tip, to name just a few. This heavily oxidized Taiwanese tea is one of the most prized oolongs in the world. Incredibly sweet, fruity and lush with a delicate warm spicy ...
Oriental Beauty Oolong Tea (American Tea Room)
Hsinchu Oolong tea. SUMMER 2014 HARVEST - Legend has it that Oriental Beauty was bestowed its poetic name by the Queen of England, but it is also known as Formosa White-Tipped Oolong, Bai Hao Oolong and a whole host of other names. The good news is that Oriental Beauty, by any other name, still ...
2015 Oriental Beauty Oolong Wulong
This unique Taiwanese tea consist of thick and juicy leaves picked at the time of the bug bites creating the highest grade leaves. The taste is reminiscent of a fruit honey. A totally unique oolong that is a special addition to your shelf. 2015 crop. This is a refreshing and unique Taiwanese tea ...
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