Formosa Oolong Dung Ting Tea

Formosa (present day Taiwan) has shared a long and expansive history with tea, particularly Oolong Tea. Our very special Formosa Oolong Dung Ting Tea stands testament to that history and likewise represents the future of the Taiwanese tea industry. This beverage is produced in the Nantou Province of the country at a relatively low elevation.

It is considered darker than most Oolongs of this style, but offers a delicate floral character and rich liquor. Formosa Oolong Dung Ting Tea, when consumed as part of a healthy and active lifestyle, can greatly improve digestion and may even strengthen bones according to some scientific studies. For whatever reason you decide to drink this tea we are proud to share it with you and your family. So, start a new tradition today with Formosa Oolong Dung Ting Tea.

As famous as Formosa Oolong Tea is, its story actually begins in China, not Taiwan. China was allegedly the birthplace of Oolong Tea, although the exact date of its creation remains a mystery. Some historians suggest that Oolong Tea was created as a tribute to reigning emperors during the Song Dynasty (906 – 1279 CE). Others believe that Oolong Tea was first created in the Wuyi Mountains of the Fujian Province, China. It is likely we’ll never know, although one of the most famous legends refers to a man and a deadly snake.

According to this tale, the man in question had been a tea farmer tending to his crop one day when he was confronted by a poisonous serpent. As a result, the farmer dropped the tea leaves he was then held in a basket and ran away. When he returned the following day, he found that these leaves had oxidised, and in his curiosity, he decided to brew them in hot water and try it. The result was unexpected, yet delicious. But as fascinating as this story is, it’s likely just a tale, nothing more.

Once Oolong Tea had established itself in China, production moved to Formosa as well. This was at a time when the island was still part of China, with many Chinese immigrants travelling to Formosa to start a new life in tea farming. This largely took place during the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912), particularly during the 19th Century. In 1866, a British trader named John Dodd began championing Taiwanese teas on the world market.

His influence saw Formosa rise from obscurity to become one of the best locations to grow and produce quality Oolong Tea. Large-scale industrialisation later swept through Formosa following the Japanese occupation of the island in 1895. This likewise brought about mechanisation, and soon after, productivity was greatly increased. This remains the case today, even after the end of the Imperialist Japanese conquest in 1945, and the independence movement that followed.

Type of Tea: Loose Leaf Oolong Tea.

Origin: The Nantou Province, Taiwan.

Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water left to cool to temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees. Following this, infuse for 2 to 3 minutes.

How to Serve: Formosa Dung Ting Tea is best served without accompaniments.

Tasting Notes: This wonderfully floral infusion is brimming with flavour and is likewise complemented perfectly with an equally enticing aroma. This smooth, delicate beverage is very easy-drinking, and leaves a refreshing aftertaste that lingers on the palate long after you have drained your cup.

Colour in Cup: Pale green liquor with light yellow highlights.

Benefits of Oolong: Drink Formosa Dung Ting Tea for improved digestive health. Consuming this tea on a frequent basis, especially before large meals, can help your body to alkalize foods in the digestive system. It can also reduce inflammation in those with acid reflux and ulcer problems. This tea is also mildly antiseptic, meaning that when consumed hot, this beverage can clear bad bacteria in your stomach.