Flame Tie Guanyin Oolong Tea (Nong Xiang Tie Guanyin)

Deep in the misty mountains of southern Fujian, where spring water flows over granite rocks and clouds wrap ancient slopes, a traditional oolong tea is crafted with fire, patience, and precision—Nong Xiang Tie Guanyin, or "Strong Aroma" - strongly roasted (baked) Tie Guanyin oolong.

This tea traces its roots to a legend from the Qing dynasty, when a villager in Anxi dreamt of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, guiding him to a unique, fragrant tea bush. From this revelation, Tie Guanyin was born—“Iron Goddess” for its strength and spiritual scent. The traditional version, known for its rich roast, preserves that heritage.

Processed from one bud and three leaves of the Tie Guanuin cultivar, hand-picked at 1300 meters altitude in Sanming County, the leaves undergo a complex multi-day process: outdoor withering, indoor withering, heavy bruising, oxidation, de-enzyming, rolling, breaking, and deep baking, hongbei. This precise charcoal firing balances intensity and elegance, transforming grassy notes into honey-orchid aroma and deep, smooth minerality.

The resulting tea has a tight semi-ball shape with a dark, glossy appearance. The infusion is amber-red, clear and bright. Its aroma is mellow and persistent, reminiscent of baked fruit and orchids, while the taste is full-bodied, smooth, and comforting. The aftertaste is long and sweet, making it a favorite for those who seek depth and tradition over fleeting trends.