Beidou Tea (2022)

Beidou Tea is a rare oolong cultivar originating from Wuyi Mountain, Fujian, named after the Big Dipper (北斗七星) constellation for its celestial aroma and exceptional quality. Developed in the 1960s from clonal selection of Dahongpao mother trees, it inherits the legendary “rock rhyme” (yan yun) of its ancestry while expressing a more floral and fruity personality.

The tea’s tight, twisted leaves unfurl to release a golden-orange infusion with a captivating bouquet of osmanthus blossom, roasted apricot, and a whisper of volcanic minerality. Its texture is velvety yet structured, with a lingering honeyed huigan (回甘) that distinguishes it from other Wuyi oolongs.

Grown on sun-bathed cliffs with morning fog, Beidou bushes develop thicker leaves rich in aromatic compounds. Processed with moderate roasting (30-40% oxidation), it strikes a perfect balance between fresh floral top notes and deep roasted undertones—making it a modern favorite among yancha enthusiasts.