Taiwan
Oolong Tea
Summer
Heavy Fermentation & Light Roasting
Dong Fang Mei Ren, also known as 'Oriental Beauty' or 'Bai Hao Oolong,' is a sweet, honey-like oolong tea from Taiwan. Made from leaves bitten by leafhoppers, it is known for its unique fruity, honeyed flavor and beautiful appearance.
Dong Fang Mei Ren (東方美人), also known as "Oriental Beauty" or "Bai Hao Oolong" (White Hair Oolong), is a unique and highly prized oolong tea from Taiwan. Its name, meaning "Oriental Beauty," reflects its distinctive appearance and exceptional taste.
The tea is made from the Qingxin Oolong cultivar and is distinguished by its extremely high level of oxidation (often 60-80%), much higher than typical oolongs. This, combined with the unique growing condition where the tea leaves are intentionally bitten by small insects called leafhoppers (Jacobiasca formosana), triggers a specific reaction in the plant, leading to the production of unique aromatic compounds.
The leaves are covered with fine white hairs (bai hao), giving it its alternative name. The resulting tea has a bright, clear liquor with a golden or amber hue, a complex, sweet, honeyed, and fruity flavor, and a smooth, mellow character. It is often considered a "bug-bitten tea" (chong xiang cha 蟲香茶).
Strong, sweet, honeyed, fruity, floral
Sweet, honeyed, fruity, complex, smooth
Long-lasting, sweet, honeyed aftertaste
The origin of Dong Fang Mei Ren is shrouded in legend, often tied to the late 19th or early 20th century. One popular story tells of tea farmers in Beipu Township, Hsinchu County, whose tea leaves were damaged by leafhoppers just before harvest. Fearing the crop was ruined, they processed it anyway, resulting in an unexpectedly sweet and fragrant tea.
The tea was reportedly presented to a British tea merchant who was so impressed by its unique character that he called it "Oriental Beauty." Another account suggests the name comes from its beauty when brewed.
Today, it is primarily cultivated in Hsinchu, Miaoli, and Nantou counties in Taiwan, where the specific climate and the presence of leafhoppers contribute to its unique character. It has gained international recognition as a distinctively Taiwanese tea.
"Dong Fang Mei Ren is born from nature's challenge, transformed into liquid gold by the tea maker's art." — Ancient Tea Saying
Possible accidental discovery in Hsinchu region.
Development and recognition of the unique processing style.
Introduction of agricultural practices, limited commercial growth.
International recognition and controlled production.
Leaves are hand-picked, typically during the summer months (June-August) when leafhopper activity is highest. Only leaves showing signs of leafhopper bites are selected.
Fresh leaves are spread out and allowed to wilt slightly, reducing moisture content and preparing them for the next steps.
The leaves are shaken to bruise the edges slightly, promoting the oxidation process. This step is crucial for developing the tea's complex flavor profile.
This is the most critical step for Dong Fang Mei Ren. The leaves undergo a very high level of oxidation (often 60-80%), much higher than typical oolongs, developing the tea's signature honeyed and fruity notes. The process is carefully monitored and controlled.
Heating halts the oxidation process at the desired level, preserving the developed flavors.
The leaves are rolled to shape them and further break down cell walls, concentrating the flavors. The rolling is often light.
The tea is dried at a low temperature to remove the remaining moisture, stabilizing it for storage while preserving its shape and aroma. Roasting, if done, is very light.
High Oxidation Process
"The soul of Dong Fang Mei Ren is forged in the harmony between insect and leaf, where nature's challenge becomes the tea's greatest gift." — Master Tea Maker
Use water at 90-95°C (194-203°F). High temperature extracts the full sweetness and complexity.
First infusion: 30-60 seconds. Subsequent infusions: Adjust to taste.
Use 3-5 grams of tea per 150-200 ml of water.
Use soft, filtered water for the purest taste.
Use to appreciate the beautiful liquor color and aroma.
Can be steeped several times, with flavors evolving.
Focus on the honeyed, fruity, and complex character.
Suitable for any time of day, especially enjoyed for its sweetness.
In TCM, Dong Fang Mei Ren, as a partially fermented oolong tea, is generally considered to have a neutral or slightly warm nature with sweet properties. It is believed to aid digestion, promote urination, and clear heat.
Its sweet and mellow nature makes it suitable for various constitutions, particularly recommended for supporting digestion and general well-being.
Like other oolong teas, Dong Fang Mei Ren contains polyphenols (including catechins and theaflavins), caffeine, and L-theanine. The high level of oxidation creates a unique profile.
Research suggests that oolong tea consumption may support weight management, cardiovascular health, bone health, and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative benefits.
Contains polyphenols that may help fight free radicals.
Caffeine and L-theanine provide focused alertness.
May support healthy cholesterol and circulation.
Can aid in boosting metabolism.
Traditionally used to promote healthy digestion.
Natural compounds may help reduce harmful bacteria.
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 | 0% |
| Caffeine | 30-50mg | 6-10% |
| Antioxidants (Polyphenols) | Moderate-High | Significant |
| L-Theanine | Moderate | Beneficial |
| Vitamin C | Trace | Minimal |
| Fluoride | Moderate-High | Supportive |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.
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Gao Shan Wu Long, meaning 'High Mountain Oolong,' refers to premium oolong teas grown at elevations above 1,000 meters in Taiwan. Known for their delicate, floral aromas, smooth, mellow flavors, and clean, refreshing finishes.
Dong Fang Mei Ren, also known as 'Oriental Beauty' or 'Bai Hao Oolong,' is a sweet, honey-like oolong tea from Taiwan. Made from leaves bitten by leafhoppers, it is known for its unique fruity, honeyed flavor and beautiful appearance.
Wenshan Baozhong, a light oolong tea from the Wenshan region in Taiwan, is known for its floral, delicate aroma, light body, and a clean, refreshing finish.
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