Whispering Branch Oolong (Qingxin Ruan Zhi Wulong)

Qingxin Ruan Zhi is a lightly oxidized oolong tea. The name Qingxin (清心) literally means “pure heart,” symbolizing clarity, serenity, and the refined spirit of tea. This cultivar originates from Taiwan and is one of the most representative varieties used in high-mountain oolong production. It is known for its tender, flexible branches (“ruanzhi” 软枝 means “soft branch”) and for producing teas with a distinctive floral aroma and elegant sweetness. The cultivar was introduced from Fujian to Taiwan during the late Qing dynasty and adapted perfectly to the island’s cool, misty mountain environments. Today, it was returned back to original homeland - Fujian province, and grown at approximately 1100 meters elevation in Minnan (Souther Fujian). This tea was harvested in summer and processed using traditional semi-oxidized oolong techniques. The leaves are lightly rolled and baked to preserve the delicate aromatics and soft structure characteristic of this variety.

This oolong offers a refined floral aroma with hints of gardenia, sweet pea, and light stone fruit. The liquor is golden-amber, with a soft, round body and a lingering sweetness that evolves gently across multiple steeps. The taste is elegant and layered—creamy, clean, and slightly herbaceous—making it an ideal tea for slow, focused brewing.