Baihao, or white filament tea, is made by picking the bud and first two leaves of the tea plant and then processing them to greater oxidation than the other oolongs. This results in dried tea leaves which are darker than normally expected for an oolong mixed with white from the tea buds that give the tea its name. When brewed, Baihao tea has a deep red color and smooth, mild flavor. The inclusion of the tea buds also gives it a characteristic and highly developed floral aroma. I most often find myself drinking Baihao after dinner for its rich flavor, a nice compliment to desserts.
This tea is a great value, with a malty, rich fruit flavor and robust color in the cup. It brews up quickly, so I recommend keeping infusion times short at first.
year:
2009
season:
summer
country:
Taiwan
region:
Hsinchu
varietal:
qing xing wulong
15g
sample
$4.25
75g
bag
$19.00
150g
bag
$36.10
300g
foil bag
$68.40
Premium Spring 2009 Wenshan Baihao
Light and smooth with fine floral subtlety. There is clearly a higher bud/leaf ratio in this tea than the summer batches, which probably accounts for the less intensely red liquor and absence of any maltiness in the flavor. Perfect for summer consumption. Very limited availability.
Exceptionally long-lasting: this is easily a ten-infusion tea. Great balance between rose-floral aromas and smooth, mildly fruit-sweet finish. The dry leaves of this tea resist packing tightly, so this one is available in bags only.