Oolong Tea: A Unique Brew Between Black and Green Tea

Neither quite black nor quite green, oolong tea is often referred to as "blue tea" or "blue-green tea." It is also known as "wu long," meaning "black dragon," which refers to the dark hue some tea leaves take on when dried. At Betjeman & Barton, oolong tea comes in a variety of delicate, high-quality blends from Taiwan, Korea, Java, and Thailand. Our tea house invites you to (re)discover the uniqueness of this tea color through infusions with diverse dominant notes, appealing to both connoisseurs and newcomers.

Exploring Oolong Tea: A Unique Production Process and Rich Flavor Profile

Among classic teas, oolong stands out primarily for its level of oxidation. It is a semi-oxidized tea, differing from fully oxidized black tea and non-oxidized green tea. The oxidation of oolong ranges from 10% to 70%, depending on the craftsmanship of each plantation and the flavor profile sought, whether vegetal or woody.

The production of lightly oxidized oolong requires young tea shoots, while more oxidized varieties are made from mature leaves. Lightly oxidized oolongs are less bitter with vegetal and floral notes, whereas more oxidized oolongs carry woody flavors reminiscent of certain black teas. Medium oxidation oolongs strike a balance with a stronger bitterness, blending floral and fruity notes.

Each oolong promises a unique sensory experience. Once relatively unknown in the West, oolong has now gained a broad following due to its varied flavors. Its low caffeine content also adds to its global popularity, making it an ideal tea for any time of day.

Enjoy Oolong Tea in Every Form with Betjeman & Barton

Our collection of oolong teas brilliantly showcases the diversity of blue-green tea. It infuses in water at 80°C to 90°C for 3 to 7 minutes, depending on the particular variety. Available loose-leaf and presented in elegantly designed boxes, our oolong teas make exceptional gifts for special occasions.

Start your day on the right note with a cup of "Formose Lapsang Crocodile" oolong, a Taiwanese tea with a pronounced smoky flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a sweet-and-savory English breakfast or a Sunday brunch.

Throughout the day, indulge in the natural or vegetal notes of our Formosa oolongs with subtle hints of cinnamon, chestnut, or peach blossoms. Journey to Thailand with our organic "Jing Shuan," perfect for tea enthusiasts, or explore Korea with our organic "Oolong Dragon" offering both smoothness and character. Alternatively, discover Java with our delicate "Halimun" organic blend, featuring light vegetal notes.

In the evening, unwind with the tangy flavor and chestnut aftertaste of "Formose Dragon Noir," a classic Taiwanese oolong best enjoyed plain, without milk.