2009 Old Bush Meizhan Oolong

Experience the unique elegance of our 2009 Old Bush Meizhan (梅占) Oolong, a rare gem from Wuyi Mountain. Crafted from mature tea plants over 80 years old, this tea captures the depth and complexity only time and nature can bestow. The “Old Bush” designation signifies not only the age of the plants but the rich, nuanced flavor profile they yield, with roots drawing nutrients from deep within mineral-rich soil.

Aged for 15 years, this tea has a warm, sweet aroma layered with woody notes and a subtle spice reminiscent of star anise. The infusion unfolds into a beautiful amber liquor, carrying a silky mouthfeel that glides effortlessly down the throat. Each sip reveals delicate and mellow flavors of dark cocoa and orchid, balanced by a bright minerality that brings vibrancy to the cup. The finish is slightly dry, yet a soft floral honey sweetness lingers, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Grown in misty Wuyi Mountain, the Meizhan cultivar is a “yancha” or rock oolong that thrives in high humidity, ample rainfall, and fertile, mineral-laden soils that shape its unique character. Known for its resilience, the Meizhan plant adapts to varied climates but performs best in subtropical conditions with consistent moisture and well-drained, acidic soil. With proper care, these revered Old Bush plants continue to produce high-quality leaves that bring the essence of their native terroir into every cup.

To Brew: For this oolong we recommend Gongfu Style brewing using 5 grams of tea leaves in a 90 ml gaiwan. To rinse, without filling the gaiwan all the way, use lower temperature water (about 190F) to quickly rinse the tea without rinsing away all of its delicate flavors. Then bring the water temperature up to 200F and steep for 15 seconds before pouring. Brew this way for the first 3-4 infusions. After that raise the temperature of the water again to 204F and steep for 5 seconds longer than the previous brew. This tea should give you up to 6 infusions. A remarkable part about this tea is that, even when over-steeped, this tea does not develop a bitter flavor nor does it become drier. This characteristic of this Meizhan Oolong speaks to it high quality as a premium tea. 

Indulge in the refined complexity of this 2009 Old Bush Meizhan Oolong—a tea that celebrates the legacy of age-old cultivation and the distinctive taste of Fujian’s prized oolong tradition.