Oolong Tea

Oolong tea originates from China and is actually transliterated from two words meaning “black” and “dragon” in English describing the shape of the oolong leaves in their novel state. Shortly after picking, the leaves are withered and semi-oxidized in the sun then shade dried. After this they are basket-tossed to break down the cells on the surface of the leaves and wok fired, which halts the oxidization process.  Oolongs are often processed over charcoal or wood which gives them a unique flavor profile.