Organic Cui Yu T-13 (Jade) Oolong Tea

It’s no secret that Cui Yu T-13 is one of our favorite cultivars at Taiwan Tea Crafts. Jade oolong, as it is also called locally, was one of the common passions that triggered mutual respect between this writer and Yuwen, our tea maker, when we first met over 10 years ago. We’ve shared this common passion for this cultivar until we could finally feel that we can rely on an as passionate grower in Mr. Zhang to bring about the best it can offer and share it with our tea friends everywhere. The T-13 cultivar was introduced alongside the famous Jin Xuan T-12 that has since become an emblematic cultivar for Taiwan. Unfortunately, Cui Yu was overshadowed by its sibling’s success and suffered a long slide into near oblivion due to its lower yields and more demanding nature with tea growers. Today, not only is it a rare find, but finding a caring grower that is willing to understand the character of this cultivar and work with it, not against it, is quite rare. Mr. Zhang is this rare pearl. You can expect to be rewarded by a more than satisfying cup with a surprising floral component that reveals layered complexity without being overbearing. A pleasant buttery aroma precedes the first sip. Then, a bouquet of subtle, pastoral flowers (lily of the valley) accompanies the smooth, silky slightly sweet vegetal notes. This is an easy drinking tea at first sight, but also one that invites a level of respect for its exuberance that finally welcomes indulgence. Enjoy it compulsively, it’s naturally good for you!