Everything you need to know about Oolong Tea

Oolong tea, also known as blue tea or semi-fermented tea, is a variety of Chinese tea that lies between black tea and green tea, and it's one of the most prized varieties around today. The value of this Chinese tea is largely down to its variety of health properties, particularly its antioxidants, but also to its unique flavour, which is instantly recognisable and widely loved. Some of its varieties are among the most highly regarded of the many teas produced by China.

Like any tea, oolong comes from the tea tree (Camellia sinensis). It's mostly harvested in the Chinese province of Fujian, which is also where the Ti-Kuan-Yin variant is produced, known for preserving most of the characteristics of green tea. Another well-known variant is Formosa Oolong, which comes from Taiwan and is stronger in flavour than the one produced in Fujian.

How is oolong tea made?

Unlike other teas, oolong leaves have undergone a special oxidation process that gives them their bluish-black colour and provides some of their most outstanding organoleptic properties.

This oxidation is achieved by putting the tea leaves through a process of aeration and sun exposure. The airing and drying time for oolong tea is much shorter than it is for oxidising black tea. This means only partial oxidation takes place, which locks in its characteristically intense aroma, mild, fruity flavour, and the reddish tones of its infusion. As such, oolong blue tea tastes halfway between green and black tea. It's not as floral as one, and not as strong as the other.

Although Oolong Tea is generally consumed as fresh as possible, shortly after processing, some varieties are given a light roast before consumption. This technique eliminates undesirable odours and makes tea even smoother.

Properties of oolong tea

Anyone wondering about the benefits of Chinese oolong tea is in for a treat, as it boasts a whole host of qualities. One of its principal strengths is its high antioxidant power, which has huge benefits for the immune system. This quality is attributed to oolong tea’s high catechin content. Catechins are flavonoids with a remarkable ability to protect cells and delay their ageing.

Catechins give tea its anticancer properties and contribute to reducing cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels. And as if that weren't enough, it's also known to protect the liver, improve the body's defences and help burn fat.

Also noteworthy is the stimulating power of the tea. This is thanks to its theine content, which is also recognised for being astringent, diuretic and aiding digestion. Among the many benefits of Chinese oolong tea for the body, then, its power to improve digestion, which makes it a great ally for weight loss, is a stand-out. But so too is its fantastic capacity for combatting stress, as well as its ability to strengthen bones and limit the effects of diabetes.

An infusion of Chinese oolong tea is a great way to both provide our body with all the health benefits of Chinese tea and offer a real delight for the senses.

Where to buy Chinese oolong tea

Today, you can buy oolong tea both in our physical stores and online. At Tea Shop, we have a wide range and irresistible selection of Oolongs Teas for lovers of all kinds of flavours (citrus, fruity, sweet, floral and roasted) to enjoy all its properties while savouring its delicious flavour. Discover your next favourite oolong tea or blue tea packed full of healthy properties! Try the best varieties of this Chinese tea:

The NEW Italian Panettone: oolong tea blend inspired by the traditional Italian sweet and made with classic ingredients. Made in a base of silky smooth Oolong tea, together with sweet Sultana raisin and a fused sweet citrus flavor.