iteaworld northern fujian oolong collection

I'd be remiss if I started this review without talking about the extensive resources that iteaworld has available on oolong. As I've seen discussed on this sub before, the easily-digestible informational posts and graphics they have prepared are one of the best features of the site. In these sampler packs, they include a booklet detailing the history, processes, and cultivars included, and although the information is also available on their website, the physical booklet makes nice light reading material while you're drinking it.

Wuyi Qizhong (Caicha) - I am writing this one after getting home from a long day of lab work and the way the flavor lingers is like a hug to the throat. It is a nostalgic cup with strong mineral sweetness and a lovely light orchid scent. Evokes the feeling of trying oolong for the first time long ago as a tea novice and recognizing the world of complexity that just opened up to you.

Old Bush Shuixian - Like drinking an old growth forest in early spring; the misty drizzle sucks the heat out of your body as you walk over decomposing leaves, but the first light of sunrise and tinges of green from breaking buds bring it back little by little. The tea tree's roots carry half a century of the rocky forest floor's history to your nose.

Wuyi Rougui - Rich and aromatic like daphne blossom. Exceedingly lingering floral sweetness undergirded by a base of mineral. This cultivar is named for its distinct aroma, which is usually described as cinnamon-like. Personally, I mainly get stone fruit notes off of it up front, but there is an element of cinnamon behind.

Blended Da Hong Pao - Dark and complex. Mildly bitter richness and stone fruit and honey notes bring to mind the flavor and aroma of chocolate covered cherries. Leaves a whisper of cocoa in the mouth like a good qimen. Probably my favorite one of these oolongs so far (although I am biased as cocoa-forward black teas are consistently my favs)

Jian'ou Dwarf Oolong - Sweet, effervescent and fruity; like a mountain spring under a peach tree. Wonderfully light. The second steep tastes noticeably juicier than the first. Peach and cherry blossom notes are dominant, but not aggressive. What an american ginger peach tea tries for with artificial flavors this oolong accomplishes effortlessly.

Rui Xiang - Velvety and floral. The mouthfeel is thick and has a bit of Jin Xuan/milk oolong-like character to it, but more floral. Rose is the dominant aroma to me, with a supporting cast of pear, gardenia, apple, magnolia, and maybe a hint of jasmine. Later steeps pick up the slightest whisper of cocoa. I can see why the informational booklet describes this tea as a shapeshifter.

Thank you again to iteaworld for this sampler! I thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely be reordering some of these oolongs in the future.