2002 Lishan Mountain Tie Guan Yin "Iron Goddess tea"

This 2002 Lishan Mountain Tie Guan Yin — Yingxiang (迎香) — is a beautiful example of a well-aged, high-mountain Taiwanese oolong. Grown in the Li Shan region at elevations of approximately 5,600–5,900 feet and harvested in the spring of 2002, it reflects the care, craftsmanship, and tradition that have made Taiwan's high-elevation teas so highly regarded.

Yingxiang Oolong is cultivated from Qingxin Oolong and Jin Xuan tea plants and is classified as Taiwan Tea #20. Lightly oxidized (10–15%) and finished with a medium roast (50%), it strikes a beautiful balance between the bright floral qualities of a greener oolong and the warmth and depth that gentle roasting brings with age.

What immediately stands out is its remarkably smooth texture. Delicate floral notes are balanced by nutty, creamy undertones and a clean, lingering finish with the subtle tang that is characteristic of traditional Tie Guan Yin. Each infusion continues to reveal new layers, making this a tea that rewards patience and careful brewing.

Harvest: Spring 2002
Origin: Li Shan, Taiwan
Elevation: Approximately 5,600–5,900 ft (1,700–1,800 m)
Cultivar: Tie Guan Yin (Taiwan Tea #20)
Oxidation: 10–15%
Roast: Medium (approximately 50%)

This tea truly shines when prepared in a gaiwan. I like to fill the gaiwan generously with leaves by feel, though 2–3 grams in a small to medium-sized gaiwan is a great place to start. Use water just off the boil, around 205°F (96°C), and steep the first infusion for about 45 seconds. Increase each subsequent infusion by 20–30 seconds, and you'll be rewarded with five or more flavorful steepings, each revealing a little more of the tea's character.

If you prefer brewing in a mug, use about 2 grams of tea in a strainer for an 8-ounce cup. Steep for about one minute, or longer if you enjoy a stronger brew, then simply re-steep the leaves several more times. While the experience won't be quite the same as Gong Fu brewing, you'll still enjoy a rich, satisfying cup with plenty of life left in the leaves.

If you're new to Gong Fu Cha, I've put together a free guide that walks you through the process of brewing tea in small pots over multiple infusions. You can download it here:

https://ojasnaturals.myshopify.com/products/gong-fu-tea-guide