{"title":"Wuyi Oolong Tea","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"jiu-long-ke-rou-gui-gorge-of-nine-dragons","title":"Jiu Long Ke Rou Gui \"Gorge of Nine Dragons\" 2024 - Mid-Light Roast","description":"\u003cp\u003eI was able to secure very small amounts of this tea - more for exposure and educational purposes on Wuyi Cliff teas and the impact of various mountain formations can have on a tea (think \"caves\" v.s. \"cliffs\" v.s. \"ravines and gullies\" v.s. \" gorges\"). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a harvest of the Rou Gui \"Cassia\" varietal tea trees grown from the Jiu Long Ke 九龙窠 \"Gorge of Nine Dragons\" - the very same revered garden as the legendary  350 - 400 hundred years old Da Hong Pao mother tea trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tea was crafted at a light roast to preserve the vibrancy of the fresh tea and exemplify how impressive mountain formations, the revered garden's unique micro-climate and diverse ecosystem, can make a breathtaking tea comes alive. The perfect medium of capturing the essence of the eternal mountains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e**** Tasting notes and monitoring: This Rou Gui is a LIGHT ROAST - making it a more finicky one to brew. This 2024 harvest wasn't suitable for the usual three rounds of heavy roasting due to the harvest time, material available, weather conditions, and other various constraints. From initial tastings within the first few months of harvest and roasting, the tea was phenomenal. Due to the lighter roast (unstable nature, very ephemeral), this tea is not suitable for long-term storage and needs to be consumed immediately within the first 6 months. Lately, after 9 months, I noticed it has been going through a drastic change. The tea is waning on the aromatics and the grassiness notes is starting to show (if over brewed). The rock rhyme is still very intact and the cooling sensation is unique to this tea - as it is a Keng Jian \"grown in ravines and in between streams\" tea.  I am not quite sure how it will settle a year or two from now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tea is not the most forgiving and can be overbrewed; proper attention and preparations are needed. Scalding hot water and long brewing time with bring out the more bitter edges (keep brews short when using high temps), as the Rou Gui cultivar needs more thorough roasting to kill\/temper the greeness and sharp grassiness of the material, bringing out the fragrant aromatics innate to the cultivar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLower temperature water around 208F is recommended, gradually increase temperature in the later steeps.  5 grams  in 150ml vessel for Gongfu Cha method of brewing (preferably with a thing gaiwan or a very fast pouring teapot with quick steeps of 5-10 seconds). These are just recommended guidelines to explore the characteristics offered by each tea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is another tea I would say, \"Less is more.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor of Brew: Yellow Orange\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"8 Grams","offer_id":49240214831416,"sku":"","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240802_193603.jpg?v=1726202319"},{"product_id":"san-yang-feng-rou-gui","title":"San Yang Feng Rou Gui 2024 (Mid-High Roast)","description":"\u003cp\u003eSan Yang Feng 三仰峰, direct translation into \"Three Peaks of Respect or Worship\", is know to be the highest peak of Mount Wuyi. Because this is a Zheng Yan tea with nutrient rich and well irrigated soil, biodiverse environment, and a high altitude peak; leaves produced from the tea trees from this peak garden has all the desired characteristics of a Yancha\/ Cliff Oolong. This offering I have available is a aromatic Rou Gui that is excellently crafted with a very rich minerally finish. When brewed dark and strong in a small vessel with quick steeps, we can detect more of the volatile ambrosial fruit notes along with hints of herbal grass jelly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne tip and suggestion is to keep a small cup of the first brew and allow it to completely cool. Go back and try it after you finish your tea session. You'll be amazed by the difference you taste from the different temperatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*Initial tasting notes in July of 2024 was of high vertical fragrance that rushes in the nose (akin to that of new Rou Gui).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevised tasting September 2025. Aromatics starts to soften into a fruity floral and flavor is starting to expand deeper into the liquor\/soup, balanced and tantalizing Yan Yun and sweetness on tongue. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrewing Recommendations:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse less leaves and you'll experience more of the mineral finish; more leaves will bring out the intense aromatics. Remember, especially with Rou Gui, keep steeps short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRou Gui \"Cassia Bark\" varietal is the most popular choice of varietal in the region right now and can taste vastly different when crafted by different makers or harvested from different mountain gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI highly recommend this Rou Gui and the other ones from different revered gardens in my collection as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a few carefully selected Rou Gui in the collection:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Ma Tou Yan \"Five Horse Cliff\" Rou Gui for a darker roast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Hui Yuan Rou Gui for a taste of True Terrior\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Jiu Long Ke \"Gorge of Nine Dragons\" Rou Gui for a lighter roast \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49240233279800,"sku":"","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49240233312568,"sku":"","price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":49240233345336,"sku":"","price":120.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"16 Grams","offer_id":51011843162424,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240912_151459__01.jpg?v=1726202846"},{"product_id":"ma-tou-yan-rou-gui","title":"Ma Tou Yan \"Horse Head Cliff\" Rou Gui 2024 (High Roast)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA True Zheng Yan Cliff tea from Ma Tou Yan 马头岩 \"Horse Head Cliff“.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe garden is situated under five rock formations that is thought to resemble five galloping horses. Since tea from this garden enjoys a lot more strong rays of sunlight and for longer periods of time, the resulting tea is a lot more powerful, deep, and minerally. This Rou Gui was given a high roast to better display the characteristics of teas from this garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Brewing Recommendations:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart out with less and the gradually increase grams to find the optimum brew. Sometimes less is more, especially with the powerful Yancha teas, as it allows proper judgement of all the dimensions. I usually use 5 grams in a 100 - 120ml teapot, each steep with boiling water and decant within 10 - 20 seconds. The full 8 Grams can be very intense but also very enjoyable. Just remember to decant immediately within 2 to 5 seconds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWays to tell is the color of the brew. Usually a deep golden hued orange is an indicator of a in middle of the road and balanced brew. Darker crimson red might indicate a lot stronger and bolder brew.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"8 Gram","offer_id":49240254284088,"sku":"","price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296203678008,"sku":"","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296203710776,"sku":"","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240910_202159.jpg?v=1726203553"},{"product_id":"hui-yuan-rou-gui","title":"Hui Yuan Rou Gui 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eHighly fragrant and fruity darker roast Rou Gui from the center of the central region. This tea is from the revered garden of Hui Yuan Keng. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is one of my absolute favorites. I highly recommend this tea to any seasoned tea drinker looking for a tea that keeps on brewing and excel in both fragrance, fruit notes, body, depth, and has that highly sought after Yan Yun \"岩韵“.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"8 Grams","offer_id":49240260215096,"sku":"","price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240912_164311__01.jpg?v=1726203880"},{"product_id":"hundred-years-grove-shui-xian","title":"Hui Yuan's Secret - Hundred Years Grove Shui Xian 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eHui Yuan's Secret 慧苑秘竟\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHundred Years Old Grove Shui Xian 慧苑坑百年老丛水仙\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom a very revered garden from the depths of Hui Yuan Keng stands an old grove of a hundred years Shui Xian tea trees. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrequent rain fall and mist throughout the year gets absorbed by the volcanic rocks that surround this garden. The rocks traps the water and slowly releases it, creating a highly humid and supple biodiverse environment that is superb for nurturing the Shui Xian \"Water Sprite\" tea trees. The garden is enshroud in mist and is nested away by surrounding rock formations. Sunlight normally can't even reach this place. The hundred years trees grows with climbing moss hanging all over the trunks and branches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo harvest this tea, we had to take a two to three hour hike into the ravine. There is only one narrow entrance and path back and forth. Leaves are carefully hand picked from the old trees to prevent damaging the delicate branches. Once picked, the leaves are rushed back, traveling on foot, to the nearest workshop to start the withering process. If the window of time is missed, the batch of superb quality material will be rendered completely unworkable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOld grove Shui Xians usually show clear signs of one or layers of multiple characters of moss fragrance, bamboo leaves fragrance, or wood fragrance. This particular tea exemplifies a woodsy character, which is the marker for quality old grove Shui Xians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are around a few revered mountain gardens producing the remaining two thousand Shui Xian trees that are over a hundred years. This is one of them. I will try to work on trying to secure small amounts from the other gardens as well but it extremely difficult as a small project to be able to even get close enough to this kind of tea leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause this is a new production and harvest of 2024, the roast (mid-high roast, not high-dark roast) have just started to slowly dissipate and reveal more of how the tea can be brewed. Although it would had been best to allow it to rest for a year before making available, I just got too excited and had to put it up on the list this year. In the past year, I stashed away a small amount of the 2023 harvest in a canister to allow maturing. To my surprise the 2023 harvest showed notes of toasted chestnuts and a slightly thicker viscosity. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI would love to hear your thoughts on this tea (and all of the Yan Chas in my collection). Please leave your comments in the contact page. I had spent the last decade of my life in pursuing tea and making it my life's work. Your feedback and generosity is what keeps me going.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"8 Grams","offer_id":49240288952632,"sku":"","price":48.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240906_142706__01.jpg?v=1726204426"},{"product_id":"dong-ding-cold-summit","title":"Dong Ding \"Cold Summit\" 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eDong Ding \"Cold Summit\" is a classic Taiwan oolong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMid-oxidized and lightly convection roasted creates a toasty, nutty, and very light hints of fruit profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA great choice for everyday and introduction to oolong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrewing recommendations:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeigh out 4 -5 grams (approximately a small tablespoon) to brew in a 150ml teapot\/vessel at 195-200 F temperature water for 1 minute. Decant brew from teapot\/vessel fully to prevent leaves from continuing to release flavor. Add additional 20-30 second per subsequent brew. Adjust parameter accordingly to your taste.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"60 Grams","offer_id":49240355143992,"sku":"","price":13.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"120 Grams","offer_id":49240355176760,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240912_181941.jpg?v=1726206082"},{"product_id":"rou-gui-oolong","title":"Classic Rou Gui \"Cassia\" 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fruity aromatic and mid-high charcoal roasted Rou Gui Wuyi Rock Oolong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI know sought-after Yan Chas or Rock Teas from the revered central region of the ecological reserve are very limited and can command astronomical prices. So, I had to work on securing a harvest of leaves, from a garden a little bit further away but is still within the reserve, to create a classic oolong tea with the aromatics and depth that embodies the classic characteristics of a classic standard Wuyi Oolong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis harvest of Rou Gui went through three successive rounds of fruit wood charcoal roasting, each lasting around 12 hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a great Rou Gui that can be enjoyed everyday, without the hefty price tag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e**HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for best value \"Yancha\" Cliff Oolong Connoisseurs. This is my everyday go-to favorite and I'm sure it will be yours too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49246887313720,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":49246887346488,"sku":"","price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240914_161750__02.jpg?v=1744256773"},{"product_id":"orchid-fragrance-shui-xian","title":"Orchid Fragrance Shui Xian 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is what a excellent crafted Shui Xian should taste like. Another true Zheng Yan Cliff tea from center of the ecological reserve. It embodies a high fragrance and deep notes of orchids, sinking deeply into the body of the brew. This was a small hand crafted batch that was thoroughly and skillfully roasted over logan fruit charcoal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoast Level: Mid-High (Not Dark)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended brewing with 7-8 grams in a 120 -150ml vessel, preferably a yixing purple clay tea pot.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"8 Grams","offer_id":49310334452024,"sku":"","price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"16 Grams","offer_id":49310334484792,"sku":"","price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240925_141827__01.jpg?v=1727328016"},{"product_id":"fo-shou-buddhas-hand","title":"Fo Shou \"Buddha's Hand\" 2023 (Aged Traditional Dark Roast)","description":"\u003cp\u003eFo Shou \"Buddha's Hand\" 正岩佛手岩茶\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eType: Oolong Tea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eRegion: Wuyi Mountains, Fujian\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eHarvest: 2023\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eElevation: 400 - 500m\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eRoast: Traditional Fruit wood Charcoal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eThe darkest Wuyi Oolong in the collection - high oxidation with a dark roast.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitial strong mocha, expresso, and cream. Descending into light notes of tobacco and vanilla scotch with minerals. Darkly roasted and stored for a year to mellow out. There is still a small tinge, although not much, of the tingling pear sensation (showing in later steeps) which the cultivar is known for when processed in a lighter style. This varietal also goes by the name \"Xue Li 雪梨\" aka \"Snow Pear\" for it's subtle cooling sensation on the tongue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA true Zheng Yan rock tea from north of the ecological reserve center - nested away in a small garden surrounded by tall cliffs with its own unique micro-climate. This tea is considered a rare varietal as there isn't many of these tea trees left in the reserve, as most of what is being planted is of the more popular varieties of either Rou Gui (Cassia) or Shui Xian (Water Sprite).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular varietal is called Fo Shou \"Buddha's Hand\" for its large, burly thick, and wide palm-like leaves - making it rather difficult tea tea to craft. This is very much a challenge from the tea to the tea maker, as not many crafters would not choose this as their first choice of materials to work with. After much withering and shaping, the wide circular harvested leaves transforms into beautiful long twisted curls. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tea will be interesting to age for a few more years to see how it would change. When brewed in higher concentration and allowed to completely cool, I was able to taste flavors of lotus paste. I imagine it to get more textured and smoother over the years as it continues to settle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*Traditional Dark Roast has a more coffee and Expresso flavor profile and textured body (not high fragranced).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrewing Recommendations:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart out with 4 - 5 grams in a 120-150ml vessel. Gradually increase gram dosage, perhaps 6 - 7 grams for a strong brew. FLASH BREW at water temperature of 208-212 F. Once doused with boiling water, immediately decant and pour out all liquid within seconds. Remember to allow the leaves  rest and cool between each brew throughout the session to prevent over brewing or cooking the leaves - this will ensure longevity of the leaves throughout the brewing session.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296190505272,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296190538040,"sku":"","price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":50372096983352,"sku":null,"price":74.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240929_115617.jpg?v=1727642032"},{"product_id":"bai-ji-guan-2018","title":"Bai Ji Guan 白鸡冠 \"White Rooster's Comb\" 2018 (Aged Oolong)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA different Bai Ji Guan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd not the usual yellow leaves with a light roast. The brewed leaves looks orange and red as it went through a bit more oxidation and got added a bit more of a roast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of the light and crisp sweet corn flavor profile typical to the lighter style Bai Ji Guan varietal, this aged Bai Ji Guan brews more of a mellow minerally red hue with finishing notes of dry sour plum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those looking for the classic aged oolong taste. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrewing Reccomendations:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLess is more with this one - at least when starting out. Brew with less and for longer - this will bring out the succulence and water character of the tea. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeigh 3 - 4 grams to brew in a 120ml vessel at 208 - 212F. For darker hue brews, flash brew with increased dosage of 6-8grams. Decent within a few seconds.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296136438072,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":50897020518712,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240928_185255.jpg?v=1727579491"},{"product_id":"ban-tian-yao","title":"Ban Tian Yao \"Half Way Sky\" 2022 (Aged Traditional Dark Roast)","description":"\u003cp\u003eBan Tian Yao \"Half Way Sky\" 半天妖\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA good toasty introduction into Wuyi oolongs\/Rock teas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Ban Tian Yao \"Half Way Sky\" is a Zheng Yan cliff tea. This particular harvest is from a small garden growing beside a cave very close to the central region of San Keng Liang Jian. The leaves are much smaller and finer compared to other bigger leaf cultivars like Beidou and Fo Shou. The finished tea is given a dark traditional roast and is now settling into a more glutinous and starch like texture and subtle hints of spice at the end when brewed with concentration. The Yan Yun \"岩韵“ mineral finish has a pleasant warm energy. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e**Aged traditional dark roasts can be very dim-sum tea-like. More deep and brown flavors of coffee and expresso, which is one-side or type of Wuyi Cliff Oolong flavor tasting profiles. Trading off fragrance and viability for stability.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296186212664,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296186245432,"sku":"","price":36.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":51207091093816,"sku":null,"price":72.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240928_181653.jpg?v=1727583591"},{"product_id":"shi-ru-stone-milk","title":"Shi Ru \"Stone Milk\" 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eA mid-high roast Yan Cha, named Shi Ru 石乳 \"Stone Milk\" or \"Stone Essence\", clustered away in between rocks and crags. Because it is often found growing in rock formations with water seeping through, the flavor of the tea distills essences of stone. For centuries, Shi Ru garnered much attention and was recorded and referred to in many ancient records. During the Song and Tang dynasties, this varietal were grown in the imperial gardens of Bei Yuan - making it a reserved varietal for tribute tea at the time. Throughout the passage of time, this cultivar is now still a favorite of many; but perhaps not as popular as newer varietals found today. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular Shi Ru is from a garden within the ecological reserve. The harvested fresh leaves were of excellent quality this year. Compared to the previous year's, I added a higher roast to bring out the singing notes. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe initial steeping yields a undercurrents of peaches and stone fruit aromatics. As we progress onto the later steeps, we'll be able to detect more of the floral orchids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended brewing parameters:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 5 grams per 100-130ml of water at 208+F. Brew for 10-20 seconds and decant from vessel\/teapot. Add approximately 10 seconds or more to each additional steep. High leaf to water ratio and short steeps preserve vibrancy of leaves and prevents \"cooking\" or burning\/stewing the leaves - keeping vegetal or grassiness at bay.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296209510712,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296209543480,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":49296209576248,"sku":"","price":68.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240928_190746_1.jpg?v=1727585026"},{"product_id":"que-she-sparrows-tounge","title":"Que She \"Sparrow's Tounge\" 2024","description":"","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296215703864,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296215736632,"sku":"","price":33.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":49296215769400,"sku":"","price":66.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20240928_192953.jpg?v=1727585233"},{"product_id":"mei-zhan-2022","title":"Old Grove Mei Zhan Yancha 老从梅占正岩茶 2023 (Mid-Roast)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAnother classic small workshop tea - fully handcrafted. A True Zheng Yan tea from the deep parts of the center of the central region of the \"San Keng Liang Jian\" or \"Three Ravines and Two Streams\" of the ecological reserve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotes of toasted nori, umami, dry plums, and a persistent and sustaining sweetness. Body is on the viscous side with a heavy mineral broth-like soup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to being grown deeper in the ravines and gorges, old age, deep roots, limited sunlight, ample water, and breeze flowing through the both sides of the crevices of tall cliffs; this environment creates a very subtle and tranquil tea. This Old Grove Mei Zhan has a rock rhyme \"岩韵“ and Qi like feeling that sinks far down and then flows up after drinking. This really surprised me during my first time brewing it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*This is a high roast Wuyi Yancha that went through three rounds of fruit wood charcoal roasting. This is a personal favorite of mine. The making of this was truly painstaking but well worth it - from the long hike into the reserve, to picking the fresh leaves, rushing it back to start the oxidation process, carefully roasting it over the ambers in a insanely smoldering hot and enclosed area, sorting through the dried leaves and repeating again and again. Each round of roasting lasted around 16 hours. With every 40 minutes or so, we would give the tea a turn to ensure proper and even roasting. The 68 or more turns greatly reduces our finished yield as some of the whole twisted leaves breaks down during this part of the process (broken or smaller part leaves does not mean lower quality). Thus, resulted in a limited production of the finished tea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCurrently in the continuous process of gradually mastering the craft of Mei Zhan from this select old grove. The weather was very good this year and the harvested material is of very high quality. I am pleased and excited to bring on the 2025 harvest with potentially a even deeper roast. Available later this year in May 2026. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrewing Recommendations: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest brewed with 5-8 grams in a small 100ml-120ml yixing clay teapot. Douse with off boiling. Very versatile tea to brew. Use sparse amounts and brew a little bit longer to yield a more sublte milky sweet plum soup-like brew; increase dosage for a more intense savory finish with deeper notes of toasty nori and woodsy undertones. I advise to reframe from using thin porcelain pots or vessels as heat retention doesn't hold up as well for flavor extraction.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"8 Grams","offer_id":49296223306040,"sku":"","price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"16 Grams","offer_id":50189899137336,"sku":null,"price":26.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296223338808,"sku":"","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296223371576,"sku":"","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_d6b4ddf8-deee-436f-ad42-a53f43c4f9d6.jpg?v=1749780294"},{"product_id":"da-hong-pa-grand-scarlet-robe","title":"Da Hong Pao \"Grand Scarlet Robe\" Cliff Oolong (Mid-High Roast)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA great Da Hong Pao tea crafted from a blend of Wuyi varietals for everyday gongfu cha brewing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296429908280,"sku":"","price":24.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":49296429941048,"sku":"","price":46.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"250 Grams","offer_id":49296429973816,"sku":"","price":115.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20241003_182318.jpg?v=1728014981"},{"product_id":"shui-xian","title":"Classic Shui Xian Cliff Oolong 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eA mid-high roast roast Shui Xian oolong, from the ecological reserve, fantastic for everyday gongfu cha brewing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe roast has mostly dissipated, showing a settled tea with more of a mossy and mineral body, finishing with deep orchids and a pleasant grape-skin bite at the end of each sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Brewing Recommendations:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeigh approximately 5 - 7 grams in a 120ml vessel. Douse with boiling water around 208F - 212F. Immediately decant and pour out brew within 5 - 10 seconds. For subsequent brews, add another 5 - 10 seconds.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49296436658488,"sku":"","price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49296436691256,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 Grams","offer_id":49296436724024,"sku":"","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_f2551461-4aec-438e-8d9b-965e61801f1d.jpg?v=1749783937"},{"product_id":"keng-jian-rou-gui","title":"Keng Jian Rou Gui 2023","description":"","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"16 Grams","offer_id":49310271668536,"sku":"","price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49310271701304,"sku":"","price":33.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 Grams","offer_id":49310271734072,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20241001_182249.jpg?v=1728014398"},{"product_id":"keng-jian-shui-xian","title":"Keng Jian True Cliff Shui Xian 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eA high roast (not the super dark kind) Shui Xian from the Central region 坑间, a true Zheng Yan, which has mellowed into a very soft and subtle tea. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotes of sandalwood and frankincense. Thick, smooth, cloudy texture with deep notes of minerals. Heavier than it looks and more comforting steep after steep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 6-8 grams to steep in 100-140ml tea vessel. Douse at 210-212F boiling water. Quickly decant all liquid within a few seconds of flash brewing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Tea Wanderer","offers":[{"title":"16 Grams","offer_id":49310274126136,"sku":"","price":32.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"25 Grams","offer_id":49310274158904,"sku":"","price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"8 Grams","offer_id":50073645908280,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0889\/2674\/8984\/files\/IMG_20241001_182724.jpg?v=1728014474"}],"url":"https:\/\/teawanderer.com\/collections\/oolong.oembed","provider":"The Tea Wanderer","version":"1.0","type":"link"}