Li Shan Black Forest Oolong (Taiwan)

Li Shan, or Pear Mountain, lies 72 km from the city of Taichung in Taiwan. At an altitude of 2000–2200 meters, the Black Forest nature reserve ends there and the Slamaw Garden plantations begin, tended by master Li Minfang.

Proximity to the reserve's centuries-old trees shapes a special microclimate and gives the tea leaves a distinctive freshness. This is a light imperial-grade oolong with delicate notes of lilac, wildflowers, corn, almond, buttercream, honey, and peach.

The tea is best brewed gaiwan-style or in a small ceramic teapot with small pours of hot water.