When it comes to tea, most people are familiar with green and black tea—but somewhere between the two lies oolong, a fascinating category of tea that offers a complex and dynamic flavor experience.
At Taria, we’re passionate about bringing the finest, cleanest teas to tea lovers, and Zealong’s oolong teas are some of the most exceptional in the world. But what exactly is oolong tea, and how does it compare to green or black tea? Let’s dive in.
Oolong Tea vs. Green and Black Tea: What’s the Difference?
All tea—whether it’s green, black, or oolong—comes from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. The difference between them lies in how they’re processed, particularly in oxidation.
- Green Tea is the least oxidized, meaning the leaves are quickly dried or steamed to prevent browning. This keeps the flavor fresh, grassy, and light.
- Black Tea is fully oxidized, leading to its rich, bold flavors with deep malty, caramel, or even chocolatey notes.
- Oolong Tea sits in between—it’s partially oxidized, which means it retains some of the fresh, floral characteristics of green tea while developing the deeper, roasted complexity of black tea.
The level of oxidation can vary widely in oolongs, leading to a broad spectrum of flavors—from light and floral to deep and toasty.
Zealong’s Oolong Collection
Zealong produces three flagship oolongs, each at different oxidation levels to create distinct flavor profiles:
Pure Oolong (Light Oxidation - 25%)
Closest to green tea in taste and color, Pure Oolong has delicate floral notes, a fresh and crisp character, and no roasting. It’s smooth, refreshing, and perfect for those who enjoy a lighter brew.
Aromatic Oolong (Medium Oxidation - 50%)
This oolong is lightly roasted, striking a perfect balance between green and black tea. It has floral and creamy notes with a slightly richer body, making it one of Zealong’s most popular teas.
Dark Oolong (High Oxidation - 75%)
Deeply roasted and close to black tea in body and complexity, Dark Oolong boasts warm, toasty flavors with a hint of caramel and lingering sweetness.
Introducing Zealong’s Aged Oolong
For those looking for a truly special tea experience, Zealong’s Aged Oolong offers something remarkable. This semi-oxidized tea is repeatedly roasted over several years and stored in clay urns to allow the flavors to mellow and deepen over time.
Aged oolongs develop a smoother, more refined taste, with roasted nutty notes and a lingering sweetness. Much like fine wine, the aging process enhances its complexity, making it a treasured choice among tea connoisseurs.
Why Drink Oolong Tea?
Oolong tea isn’t just about incredible flavor—it’s also a wonderful choice for those who love a versatile tea that can be steeped multiple times, revealing new notes with each infusion. With Zealong’s clean, organic growing practices and commitment to purity, you can sip with confidence knowing you’re enjoying some of the finest oolong teas in the world.
Try Zealong’s Oolongs
Whether you’re a seasoned oolong drinker or new to this unique tea category, we invite you to explore Zealong’s Pure, Aromatic, Dark, and Aged Oolong. Experience the beauty of oolong—one steep at a time.
Ready to try? Shop Oolong Teas Here