King Oolong Tea – Loose Leaf Caddy from Art of Tea Collection (Limited Edition)

Anyone who enjoys a sophisticated cup of tea will appreciate the finesse of our Art of Tea King Oolong blend. This traditional whole leaf green tea from China’s southern Fujian province is prized around the globe for its sweet and satisfying floral character. This is achieved through an ancient manufacturing process that sees premium tea leaves gently withered and partially oxidised to bring out unique characteristics. The finished dried tea is said to resemble the head of a dragonfly – a symbol often associated with prosperity, harmony and good luck in Chinese culture. Drink a cup of King Oolong for a deliciously restorative infusion, savouring the floral notes and toasted walnut flavours.

The flavour of Oolong tea varies widely depending on where the leaves are grown, when they’re harvested and the specific stages of the tea’s manufacture. Our Art of Tea King Oolong is from Fujian province on the southeast coast of China, an area famed for the quality of its whole leaf teas. The subtropical climate and rich mountainous terrain create the perfect environment for tea bushes to thrive. The leaves for this tea were harvested in October, when they are renowned for having a distinct sweetness and often contain a higher concentration of aromatic oils.

Processing the Oolong requires the expertise of a skilled Tea Master and begins as soon as the leaves are plucked. Techniques dating back hundreds of years are still used today, starting with the tea leaves being gently withered in direct sunlight and then shaken to delicately ‘bruise’ them before they are partially air-dried. The process can’t be mechanised as each step requires the judgement of a Tea Master to recognise the minute changes in the tea leaves. The Tea Master repeats the withering and air-drying stages until he feels the right amount of oxidation for this particular tea has taken place. When ready, the leaves are carefully hand-rolled to release their inner oils and create the unique ‘dragonfly’ appearance. The final phase is ‘fixing’ the tea by drying it over open fires locks in the flavours and aromas, which are only released again when brewed.

The Art of Tea range brings home some of the best teas from around the world, delivering both excellence and elegance to true tea lovers. With this range we celebrate the art of the Tea Master: the unsung artisans who handcraft quality tea leaves into truly memorable brews. Luxurious on both sides of the tin, the Art of Tea range satisfies those with a taste for tea of character and quality. The exquisite aromas and flavours of these brews come solely from the best natural ingredients, crafted for excellence. We don’t add any flavourings or preservatives, letting the natural finesse of the ingredients and their origin shine through. You’ll see all whole leaves and tips in each blend, picked at their peak to deliver truly memorable brews.

Our luxurious Art of Tea King Oolong caddies are limited edition, so there’s only so much of this tea to go around. You’ll find 100 grams (g) of tea inside the pretty metal tea caddy, foil-sealed so it reaches you full of fresh flavour. Steep the tea with hot (but not boiling) water to bring out the sweet flavours without extracting any bitterness. The naturally coppery infusion is rich in antioxidants and caffeine, making it great for giving a gentle boost throughout the day or a cleansing finish to a meal. This is a wonderful treat for anyone who drinks Oolong tea or as an introduction for those who enjoy whole leaf black and green teas. The pretty caddy is a fitting vessel for the fine blend within and makes a luxurious addition to any kitchen. With only so many available, treat yourself or loved one to a caddy before this ‘Oolong’ turns to ‘all gone’.