Cho Long Moon Bear Assamica Oolong

Description

Cho Long Moon Bear Assamica Oolong is a complex oolong that is grown in the north of Vietnam, in Chồ Lổng, Yên Châu District of Sơn La Province. This oolong is made from large leaves picked from wild assamica trees growing at an altitude of around 1,200 metres close to the border with Laos. Named after the native endangered Asiatic black bear, it was harvested and crafted in Autumn 2019, after which it was stored for 2 years to mature the flavours.

The trees that this Moon Bear Assamica Oolong is picked from are of local Vietnamese stock, which is a local Camellia sinensis var. assamica. It is a native tree to this part of Vietnam that has been growing here for millions of years. It is thought that this tree type is the first tea plant to come into existence; it is found in western Vietnam but also in Yunnan Province in China, northern Laos, northern Thailand and eastern Myanmar. The wild trees of this assamica varietal grow in this part of the world on their own without human interference of fertilisers or pesticides. While this tea has no organic certification, it is grown to organic standards as it is wholly picked from wild trees. The same leaves are also used for making pu-erh tea both in Vietnam and in Yunnan Province in China, where they are often sold to.

This Moon Bear Assamica Oolong comes in the classic tightly rolled leaf shape. When brewed, it produces a clear, bright, golden liquor with a floral and malty aroma. The taste is complex, with a herbal profile and a sweet and tangy flavour. Tasting notes include peppery, medicinal flavours and notes of malty toasted bread, rose florals and tangy minerals. The maltiness tends to stay on the scent, while the taste is more floral. The aftertaste is brisk with a pleasant light astringency. It leaves a complex but comforting impression and is a unique example of a wild assamica oolong.

We suggest brewing at 90°C for 3-4 minutes according to your taste. It should be brewed 3+ times depending on your brewing method and taste preferences to fully experience the multitude of flavours. For best results, brew gong fu style.