Zhushan Organic Jin Xuan "Lily Phoenix" Oolong Tea - Winter 2021

This was the plantation we did not have time to work with in the spring of 2021. Our schedule was very cramped with harvests elsewhere, so we missed the opportunity to witness the miraculous transformation of this plantation. Yes, this plantation we have been working with since the winter of 2018 ( "Lily Fairy") has transformed into a whole new state.

The sign of this transformation was already there when "Maiden Nectar" was made, but we were not 100% sure whether it was due to the terroir or the super strong bug-bitten character. We were not able to find the answer out in the spring of 2021 due to our absence. The realisation of the lands transformation was a thrilling one, because we were expecting it to happen all long but did not know exactly when. We have Mr. Chen's diligence is to thank for this incredible transformation.

Mr. Chen's small plantation has been entirely free from agrochemicals since the beginning, so the tea trees are not neatly distributed on the land. The tea trees are allowed to grow sporadically among the wild and tall weeds. A majority of the Jin Xuan planted in the garden did not survive these semi-wild condition, leaving lots of blank spots in the plantation. In such a harsh environment, only the strongest trees can survive. Thanks to this 'natural selection', these tea trees should in theory deliver the purest Jin Xuan characteristics under the right processing method.

This Jin Xuan is truly expressing itself in a different form due to Mr Chen's farming methods. We named this tea "Lily Phoenix" for its unbelievable dancong-like character. If you compare carefully each season of this tea from "Lily Fairy" to "Maiden Nectar", you will definitely notice the significant changes the tea trees have undergone. Without the support of tea lovers all over the world, such a magical event may have gone unnoticed and unobserved. We thank you all for your assistance and love towards the land. Enjoy this gift of nature!

Harvest:  Winter 2021 / 冬 貳零貳壹

Varietal:  Jin Xuan / 金萱

Elevation:  200 M / 貳佰 公尺

Region:  Zhushan / 竹山

Fermentation Level:  25% / 分之 廿伍

Roast Level:  1 / 壹 分

 Ready to brew!

 Brewing......

 Needless to say, this plantation is one of an old dog's most beloved one in Taiwan. What made an old dog really surprised was that minty feeling in the mouth which had never appeared before. The aroma is again strong butter like at the bottom of the cup. It actually smells like very high quality cream with a floral flavor. Always pleasant and tender, that's what made an old dog a calm dog every morning.