Ben Shan
One of my favorite "go to" oolongs, light bright flavor and very forgiving on steeping.
Arguably one of the more aromatic of the Tieguanyin-style or low-oxidized oolongs, Ben Shan or "Source Mountain" is a classic flowery-flavor tea that cups to an aroma and fragrance and body that will satisfy! Made with a comparatively small-leaf varietal that is grown in the AnXi Region of Fujian Province (Min Nan area), Ben Shan brings a number of distinctive attributes to the cup serving to make this spring oolong a favorite for tea drinkers.
Lot Notes
This lot offers a distinctive aroma that is floral. As well, the very attractive mix of light-green leaves reflects its light oxidizing and low firing to preserve its wonderful aromatics. We noted the taste really opened after the first steep and held up with multiple steeps. Harvest date is April 2021.
Tea Facts
Fujian Province is a primary source of worldclass oolong teas. Ben Shan is gorwn in an area known as Min Nan. Ben Shan is crafted to a lighter, greener oxidization which gives this tea a fresh, appealing range of fruity and flowery aromas. Tea was harvested in the third week of April. It was the 2nd pluck of Ben Shan in the season.
Tasting Notes
It cups to clear, yellow-green liquor that is silky and smooth. Aroma is fresh, stone fruit verging on peachy. Taste is soft and lush, This tea goes well with food and is an excellent beverage served chilled. Ben Shan is an oolong to have on hand for relaxing, at the office, and a wonderful beverage to enjoy while entertaining.
Brewing Suggestions
Use 3 grams of leaf for 7-8 ounces of water. Briefly rinse the leaves with boiling water and pour off to "awaken" the leaves. Re-infuse the leaves for 1.5 - 2 minutes. If steeping by GongFu method, use 6-8 grams of leaf and steep very briefly for 20-30 seconds and taste. The initial steep will release aroma, subsequent steeps will bring out the varied flavors of this mountain varietal.
One of my favorite "go to" oolongs, light bright flavor and very forgiving on steeping.
Met my expectations. I have been drinking your Ben Shan for several years and enjoy its distinct oolong flavors.
An intoxicating, aromatic floral Oolong with a fruity finish. Great price for this organic tea. I was introduced to this tea in a Silk Road Oolong sampler. My favorite was the Ben Shan. I use a generous tablespoon with an initial rinse and then brew for under a minute to capture the first glow of this heady Oolong. I get 'many' steeps and jar the final offerings for a chilled treat.
With all the descriptions of this Varietal Oolong, one would expect a pleasurable experience beyond Tie Quan Yin usual, but this is nothing more than a taint of green, nothing more, steeped double the time on second attempt....there is just is nothing there. So woops, there goes my $30..!!
A great oolong for any time of day. I particularly enjoy it in the afternoon. I definitely recommend giving it a try - you won't be disappointed!
This tea is awesome!! You don't need as much as you think because the balls open to be fresh tea leaves. Brew after brew the flavor holds true!!
Over the years, I've probably tried 20+ Silk Road Teas and this one is my absolute favorite...... great flavor, simply awesome!
My daughter and I were fortunate enough to spend a little time touring China where we both started drinking more tea. I have a rather unsophisticated palate and am perfectly happy drinking green tea with jasmine of no particular provenance of quality. My daughter became a connoisseur of oolong. She had me try this tea and I was blown away by the flavors. This isn't grandma's tea bag.
This tea has a beautiful flavor and the aroma is sweet and floral. It is my daily favorite and I will be saddened if it ever becomes unavailable!!!
