Lao Cong Shui Xien

This Wuyi oolong, grown in the protected wilderness of a nature reserve, belongs to the Shui Xien variety. It is one of the few teas still propagated from seed, giving it a distinct advantage: unlike hybrids, the tea bushes can thrive for decades. Our Lao Cong Shui Xien grows naturally in the wild, not on plantations. The tea bushes, untouched by pruning, reach impressive heights — often taller than a man. They thrive in the shaded corners of the forest, surrounded by other plants and trees.

The term "Lao Cong" (old bush) refers to tea from bushes over 40 years old, sometimes even 70 years or more. Over the decades, these plants undergo natural transformations. The trunks of the bushes become covered in moss, contributing to the tea's unique flavor profile known as "Ye Wei" (wild taste). This term is widely used in Wuyi and Fujian to describe an exclusive flavor note that embodies a light, pleasant mossy aroma. It unfolds with each steeping and is a hallmark of authentic old-bush Shui Xien, a flavor unattainable in hybrids or younger plants.

This tea is exceptionally rare. The yield is low, and the number of old tea plantings from decades ago is strictly limited.

The dry leaves are filled with a rich aroma featuring notes of chocolate, spices, the sweetness of tropical fruits, and refined pastry-like hints. The infusion is smooth and fragrant, evoking the essence of a tropical forest, pine needles, and flowers. The taste is deep and well-balanced, with a complex profile: dominant mossy notes are complemented by fruity and floral undertones, while bright sparks of noble resin and woody nuances add a touch of elegance. Savoring Lao Cong Shui Xien feels like wandering through a lush forest, breathing in the fresh air of a sunlit clearing, and soaking in the tranquility of nature. All of this captured in a single sip.