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November 28, 2004
Monkey Picked Oolong
Name: Monkey Picked Oolong
Kathy's Rating: 9.0/10.0
Company: Teavana
Origin of tea: China
Price: $25/2 oz.
Tea form: Rolled loose oolong leaves
What they say: The ultimate oolong. When infused, the unbroken, evenly sized leaves gracefully unfurl to reveal the most complex oolong bouquet available. Its legendary name refers to Buddhist monks who trained monkeys to harvest the youngest leaves from the top of the wild tea trees. Presently the term “Monkey Picked” refers to the highest quality of oolong available. Made from the youngest tea leaves, this tea is perfect for multiple infusions. True tea connoisseurs dedicate a Yixing teapot exclusively for brewing this exceptional oolong.
Preparation method: Pour boiling water over leaves and infuse for 3-5 minutes.
Review: Since this is advertised to be the 'ultimate oolong', I set my bar high for Monkey Picked Oolong. It would be good to note that the term 'Monkey Picked' is not exclusive to Teavana, and is used in the oolong tea world to refer to a specific method of tea making method. When drinking oolong, I like to make a large pot and drink the tea in various steep stages. There's a big difference between each of oolong tea's subsequent cups. Monkey Picked Oolong has a delicate taste, which never really becomes more bold, even as the tea steeps longer. This is interesting, because many oolongs are much more full-bodied. I did enjoy this oolong, and would recommend it for new oolong tea drinkers especially, because of the more mild taste. This is a great oolong for the times when simplicity is desired.
Posted by Kathy at November 28, 2004 04:55 PM