Da Yu Ling · Dayuling High Mountain Oolong · 2026 Grand Cru Taïwan
Da Yu Ling · Dayuling High Mountain Oolong · 2026 Grand Cru Taïwan
Origin: Taiwan · Central Mountain Range
Growing Area: Da Yu Ling (大禹嶺)
Harvest: Spring 2026 or Winter 2026, depending on the specific lot
Altitude: Approximately 2,400–2,600 meters
Cultivar: Qing Xin Oolong (青心烏龍)
Tea Type: Lightly oxidized high-mountain oolong
THE LEGENDARY DA YU LING
Perched high in Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Da Yu Ling (大禹嶺) ranks among the most prestigious high-mountain tea-growing areas in Taiwan. Its exceptional altitude and demanding growing conditions contribute to the remarkable character of its teas.
At approximately 2,400 to 2,600 metres, tea plants develop slowly in a cool mountain environment. Frequent mist, low temperatures and significant temperature variations create distinctive growing conditions.
The resulting tea is prized for its delicate floral character, silky texture and persistent sweetness. Each infusion reveals a refined expression of Taiwan’s high-mountain terroir.
ORIGIN & TERROIR
Da Yu Ling lies within Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, where steep slopes and a cool alpine climate shape the character of high-mountain oolongs.
The Qing Xin Oolong cultivar thrives in these demanding conditions. Its slowly developing leaves produce a delicate aromatic profile, combining floral freshness with a rounded, naturally sweet character.
This distinctive terroir gives Da Yu Ling its reputation among Taiwan’s most sought-after oolongs. However, the exact characteristics vary according to the parcel, harvest season and processing method.
THE ART OF HIGH-MOUNTAIN OOLONG
Crafted from the traditional Qing Xin Oolong cultivar (青心烏龍), this tea undergoes careful withering, controlled oxidation and repeated rolling. These techniques preserve its delicate aromas while developing the characteristic tightly curled leaf shape.
During brewing, the compact pearls gradually unfurl and release their aromatic complexity. Successive infusions reveal subtle changes in fragrance, texture and sweetness.
The result is an elegant oolong that combines artisanal craftsmanship with the distinctive character of Taiwan’s high-altitude tea gardens.
TASTING PROFILE
Aroma: Delicate mountain flowers, wild orchid, fresh butter and subtle vegetal notes.
Palate: Silky and rounded, with notes of pear, white peach and gentle floral sweetness.
Texture: Smooth and enveloping, with a refined body and remarkable clarity.
Finish: Long-lasting and refreshing, with lingering sweetness and a delicate mineral impression.
One of the most distinctive sensations associated with exceptional high-mountain oolongs is known as Leng Yun (冷韻). This expression describes a refreshing, lingering sensation in the throat rather than the physical temperature of the tea.
Combined with the tea’s floral elegance and persistent sweetness, it creates a particularly refined tasting experience.
Suggested brewing
Gaiwan (80–110 ml): 5 g of tea, water at 92–95°C, 35 seconds for the first infusion. Increase steeping time by approximately 10 seconds with subsequent infusions. Enjoy 8–10 infusions.
Small Teapot (200 ml): 6 g of tea, water at 92–95°C, 45 seconds for the first infusion. Gradually increase steeping time. Enjoy approximately 6–8 infusions.
Western-Style Teapot (500 ml): 5 g of tea, water at 90–92°C, 5–6 minutes. Enjoy 1–2 infusions.
Adjust the brewing parameters to your preference. Shorter infusions emphasise freshness and floral aromas, while longer infusions reveal greater body and depth.
How to enjoy it
To fully appreciate its delicate complexity, brew Da Yu Ling using the traditional Gong Fu Cha method. This approach reveals the tea’s evolving floral aromas, silky texture and lingering sweetness, infusion after infusion.
As the tightly rolled leaves gradually unfurl, each cup offers a new expression of its high-mountain character. Take your time, savour each infusion, and discover the remarkable elegance of this exceptional Taiwanese oolong.
Tea Description
Origin: Taiwan · Central Mountain Range
Growing Area: Da Yu Ling (大禹嶺)
Harvest: Spring 2026 or Winter 2026, depending on the specific lot
Altitude: Approximately 2,400–2,600 meters
Cultivar: Qing Xin Oolong (青心烏龍)
Tea Type: Lightly oxidized high-mountain oolong