Wu Yi Shan Rou Gui Oolong, also known as Cinnamon Oolong, is a renowned variety of Wuyi rock tea. It is named after its distinct cinnamon-like aroma, which sets it apart from other oolong teas. This tea has been appreciated for its unique characteristics, combining the essence of rock tea with a delightful and enduring fragrance reminiscent of cinnamon.
History
Rou Gui, or Cinnamon, is one of the notable floral oolong teas of Wuyi Mountain. It was originally one of the famous cultivars within the Wuyi tea bushes. Its reputation dates back to the Qing Dynasty, and its distinct characteristics have made it a beloved choice among tea enthusiasts.
Rou Gui is appreciated not only for its rock tea attributes but also for its enduring, sharp, and delightful fragrance. Tea connoisseurs often describe its aroma as reminiscent of cinnamon. The infused tea has a rich, mellow, and refreshing taste, with a clear, golden-hued liquor and bright, brownish-green tea leaves that are tightly rolled, appearing oily and glossy. The origin of Rou Gui is traced back to Ma Zhen Feng in the Wuyi Mountains.
Brewing Method
- Prepare Your Tea Utensils: Before brewing Rou Gui Oolong, ensure your tea utensils are ready. You’ll need a 110ml white porcelain gaiwan or a fair cup, tasting cups, a tea towel, and more.
- Warm Your Utensils: To eliminate any unwanted odors and maintain the purity of the tea’s aroma and taste, rinse your tea vessels with boiling water. This includes the gaiwan, fair cup, and tasting cups.
- Measure the Tea: For Rou Gui, use approximately 8 grams of tea leaves. The gaiwan should be filled with 110ml of water. This tea-to-water ratio allows you to experience the tea’s true flavor.
- Brewing the Tea: Bring your water to a rolling boil, and then, in a circular motion around the gaiwan’s edge, pour the water over the tea leaves. This technique, known as “circular pouring,” allows the tea leaves to be evenly saturated in the boiling water. This way, the tea leaves have maximum contact with the water, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful infusion. Make sure not to pour too forcefully, as this can lead to splashing and affect the brewing process.
- Pour the First Infusion: The first infusion of Rou Gui should be brief, typically around 1-2 minutes. After pouring the tea, let it steep, and then you can adjust the brewing time based on your preferences for subsequent infusions. High-quality Rou Gui can be brewed multiple times, and each infusion may require an additional 10-15 seconds of steeping time.
Health Benefits
- Warming Properties: Rou Gui Oolong has warming properties, making it suitable for individuals who experience cold extremities or have a weak digestive system. It can help alleviate symptoms like cold hands and feet.
- Calming Effect: This tea is known to have a calming effect, which can improve the quality of sleep and reduce symptoms of insomnia or excessive dreaming, resulting in extended sleep duration.
- Digestive Aid: Rou Gui Oolong can promote digestion and help reduce symptoms of indigestion or bloating, making it a suitable choice for those with mild digestive issues.
In addition to these benefits, Rou Gui Oolong can provide essential nutrients and should be used in moderation. It’s essential to understand how to incorporate tea into your overall health and wellness routine effectively.
Rou Gui Oolong, with its cinnamon-like aroma and distinct characteristics, is a noteworthy variety within the world of oolong teas. It brings together the essence of Wuyi rock tea with a unique and enduring fragrance that sets it apart, making it a popular choice among tea enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
