Top 5 Oolong Teas You Must Try This Year – Expert Tasting Guide

Oolong tea occupies a magical middle ground between green and black tea, offering an astonishing range of flavours—from delicate orchid notes to deep, toasty caramel. For tea lovers looking to expand their palate, 2024 is the perfect year to explore this versatile category. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, these five oolong recommendations will elevate your tea tasting experience.

In this guide, we have curated a selection of award-worthy oolongs that showcase the craftsmanship of traditional producers and the innovation of modern tea makers. Each tea has been chosen for its unique character, brewing versatility, and overall drinking pleasure. Get ready to discover your new favourite brew.

1. The Floral Masterpiece: High-Mountain Oolong from Alishan

High-mountain oolongs from Taiwan are legendary for their creamy texture and floral perfume. Grown at elevations above 1,000 metres, these teas capture the misty essence of their terroir. The liquor is pale golden, with aromas of lilac, honeysuckle, and a hint of fresh butter. On the palate, expect a silky mouthfeel and a long, sweet finish that lingers pleasantly.

This year, we recommend seeking out a well-oxidised Alishan oolong. It brews beautifully in a gaiwan or a teapot, and can be steeped multiple times, each infusion revealing new layers of flavour. For those new to oolong, this is a gentle yet profound introduction to the category.

• Brew at 90°C for 3-4 minutes for a balanced cup.
• Use 3 grams per 200ml of water for best results.
• Try it gongfu style for a more immersive experience.

2. The Roasted Classic: Traditional Tieguanyin

Tieguanyin, or 'Iron Goddess of Mercy', is one of China's most famous oolongs. The traditional roasted version offers a completely different profile from its modern green counterpart. Darker leaves produce a rich amber infusion with notes of roasted nuts, dried fruit, and a subtle charcoal smokiness. The flavour is bold yet smooth, with a comforting warmth that makes it ideal for cooler months.

This style of oolong is a favourite among tea enthusiasts who appreciate depth and complexity. It pairs wonderfully with hearty foods or can be enjoyed on its own as an afternoon pick-me-up. For the best experience, use water just off the boil and extend steeping times with each infusion.

• Water temperature: 95°C.
• Steep for 2 minutes initially, then add 30 seconds for subsequent infusions.
• Store in a cool, dark place to preserve its roasted aroma.

3. The Exotic Indian Oolong: GUEST TEA Kangra Valley Oolong - Loose Leaf

While Darjeeling oolongs are well known, the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh produces an oolong that is truly distinctive. The GUEST TEA Kangra Valley Oolong - Loose Leaf offers a bright, fruity character with notes of green apple, wildflower honey, and a touch of spice. It is a limited-production tea that showcases the unique microclimate of the region.

This oolong is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy lighter, more aromatic teas. Its lively flavour profile makes it an excellent candidate for cold brewing in the summer. The leaves are carefully hand-rolled, unfurling beautifully during steeping to release their full potential.

• Brew at 85°C for 3 minutes for a delicate cup.
• For cold brew, steep 5 grams in 1 litre of cold water overnight.
• A perfect afternoon tea that pairs with light pastries.

4. The Dark Horse: Wuyi Rock Oolong (Yancha)

Wuyi Rock oolongs, grown on the mineral-rich cliffs of Fujian, are revered for their complex, 'rock rhyme' character. These teas are heavily oxidised and roasted, resulting in a dark, almost black liquor with intense flavours of dark chocolate, dried plum, and a distinct mineral finish. The aroma is reminiscent of orchids and roasted grains.

Yancha is a tea for those who appreciate bold, unapologetic flavours. It can be brewed strong for a robust experience or lighter to explore its subtler notes. Many collectors consider these teas among the finest oolongs in the world, and they age beautifully if stored properly.

• Use boiling water and steep for 1 minute for the first infusion.
• Expect 6-8 infusions from quality leaves.
• A small Yixing teapot is ideal for brewing Yancha.

5. The Everyday Elegance: Favourites Collection - Tea Bags

Not all oolong experiences require loose leaves and elaborate rituals. For a convenient yet satisfying cup, the Favourites Collection - Tea Bags includes a carefully selected oolong that delivers consistent flavour every time. This collection is perfect for busy tea lovers who still want quality, offering a balanced oolong with floral and slightly toasty notes.

The tea bags are made with whole-leaf pieces, ensuring a robust infusion without the fuss. This is an excellent option for the office or travel, allowing you to enjoy a premium oolong experience anywhere. It also makes a great gift for someone new to the world of oolong.

• Steep one tea bag in 200ml of water at 90°C for 3 minutes.
• Great with or without milk – experiment to find your preference.
• A reliable choice for daily enjoyment.

Exploring the world of oolong tea is a journey of endless discovery. From the floral heights of Alishan to the robust depths of Wuyi Rock, each cup tells a story of tradition and terroir. We invite you to start your adventure with the GUEST TEA Kangra Valley Oolong - Loose Leaf, a truly unique expression of Indian oolong craftsmanship. Visit our online store to explore this and other award-winning teas today.