EN
Alishan Lü Gaba is a ball-rolled oolong from the high-mountain plantations of Alishan, processed using the GABA technology. The name "lü" (绿) means "green": the leaf keeps its fresh green color because it is dried at a lower temperature.
GABA technology appeared in the 1980s in Japan, at a tea research institute at Osaka University. After picking and withering, the leaves are placed for several hours in a nitrogen-rich environment, which makes them accumulate gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The leaf is then dried, which stops oxidation. The result is an unusual tea: light, brightly acidic and very aromatic.
Characteristics
- Tea type: oolong, GABA
- Region: Alishan mountains
- Form: ball-rolled, green leaf
- Processing: aging in a nitrogen atmosphere, low-temperature drying
- Flavor: floral-fruity, creamy, with a tart note
- Number of infusions: up to 8
Aroma and Taste
Dry leaf: sweet and deep, milky, with shades of wildflowers, ripe melon and vanilla.
Liquor: clear, light yellow liquor; the taste is soft and multifaceted: floral and fruity notes, young apricot, plum and a currant tartness. The flavor is fresh, with a light cooling sensation and nuances of meadow herbs. By the fourth infusion a hint of homemade apple and pear compote appears.
Aftertaste: refreshing and long, with a creamy softness and a note of buckwheat honey with forest herbs.
Why You'll Love It
A beautiful, smooth tea for the warm season: it refreshes and sets a calm mood for work. For its level, it is an aromatic and expressive oolong at an accessible price, and an excellent way to get to know the unusual GABA technology.
How to Brew
Gongfu brewing (short infusions; gaiwan or small teapot):
- 5-7 g of tea for a 150 ml gaiwan or teapot
- Water 90-95 °C
- A short rinse if desired, then infusions of 10-15 s
- Gradually increase the time; the tea gives up to 8 infusions
Western-style brewing (teapot or heat-resistant mug):
- 3 g of tea per 200 ml of water
- Water 90-95 °C
- Steep for 3-5 min
- The leaf can be brewed once more
Storage
Store in a dry, cool place, away from light and foreign odors. A tightly closed jar or zip-lock bag works best, as ball-rolled oolong is very sensitive to moisture.
