Taiwanese oolong tea, with its captivating aromas and layered flavors, has charmed tea drinkers across the globe. This island nation, blessed with a varied landscape and fertile soil, has become synonymous with high-quality oolong, a reputation built on rich history and deep respect for tradition.

From Tradition to Science: The Origins of TRES

A pivotal moment in this history is the establishment of the Taiwan Tea Research & Extension Station (TRES) in 1904. During the Japanese colonial period, TRES began shaping the island’s tea industry in profound ways. Imagine a time when tea cultivation was largely based on inherited knowledge and traditional methods. TRES stepped in, introducing scientific rigor to the process. They spearheaded research into tea varieties, cultivating new cultivars better suited to Taiwan’s unique climate and more resistant to diseases. This wasn't just about bigger yields; it was about enhancing the inherent qualities of the tea itself.

This focus on improvement extended beyond the tea bushes. TRES also championed sustainable agricultural practices, promoting methods that minimized environmental impact. This foresight has preserved the natural beauty of Taiwan’s tea gardens, ensuring the long-term health of the industry. They also set rigorous quality control standards, ensuring that Taiwanese tea earned its reputation for excellence in the global market.

For Taiwanese tea farmers, TRES became an invaluable partner. It became a hub for the latest research on everything from cultivation and processing to quality control. Farmers could attend workshops, access publications, and receive direct technical assistance. This support was crucial for those experimenting with new cultivation methods and processing techniques, driving innovation within the industry.

TRES's Impact on Modern Taiwanese Oolongs

This innovation is reflected in the incredible diversity of Taiwanese oolong. Take, for example, the revered Ali Shan High Mountain Oolong , a tea you'll find in our collection. Grown in the high altitudes of the Ali Shan mountain range, this tea embodies the delicate floral aromas and smooth, lingering sweetness that characterize high mountain oolongs. It’s a testament to how terroir, combined with careful cultivation techniques championed by TRES, can create a truly exceptional tea.

Then there’s Shan Lin Xi , another gem in our selection. This tea, grown in the misty mountains of Shan Lin Xi, is known for its fragrant, almost milky aroma and smooth, buttery texture. The higher elevation and cooler climate of this region, combined with the guidance provided by TRES, results in a tea with a unique character.

Even the lighter, greener styles of oolong, like Pouchong , have benefited from TRES’s influence. While Pouchong is less oxidized than other oolongs, its delicate floral notes and smooth mouthfeel are a testament to the careful processing techniques refined over time, often with the support of TRES research.

To truly appreciate these teas, we encourage you to brew them using the gongfu cha method. This traditional brewing style, with its small teapots and multiple infusions, unlocks the full spectrum of flavors and aromas present in each tea.

From the high peaks of Ali Shan to the misty slopes of Shan Lin Xi, and even in the delicate character of Pouchong, the influence of TRES is undeniable. It’s a story of collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to quality that has made Taiwanese oolong tea a treasure for tea lovers worldwide, and a legacy we’re proud to share through our carefully curated collection.

John Chan