Magnolia Aroma Dan Cong (Yu Lan Xiang)

Yu Lan Xiang Dan Cong, also known as Magnolia Aroma Dan Cong, is a distinctive cultivar of the famous Dan Cong oolong teas from the Phoenix Mountains (Feng Huang Shan) in Guangdong Province, China. The history and unique characteristics of this tea are deeply intertwined with the region's rich tea culture and traditions.

Yu Lan Xiang, or Magnolia Aroma, is one of the numerous Dan Cong cultivars that have been selectively bred for their unique aromatic profiles. The term Dan Cong means single bush, single tree, single grove or single strain, referring to the traditional method of cultivating tea bushes individually to preserve their unique characteristics. Each Dan Cong tea bush can produce leaves with distinct flavors and aromas, leading to a wide variety of Dan Cong teas.

Characteristics of Magnolia Aroma | Yu Lan Xiang Dan Cong

1. Aromatic Profile: Yu Lan Xiang Dan Cong is celebrated for its strong, natural floral fragrance, reminiscent of magnolia blossoms and ylang ylang flowers. This cultivar has been selectively bred to enhance its aromatic qualities, making it one of the most fragrant Dan Cong teas.

2. Leaf Appearance: The leaves of Yu Lan Xiang Dan Cong are long, twisted, and dark green. When brewed, they unfurl to reveal their full size and release their complex aromas.

3. Flavor Profile: The tea offers a smooth and silky texture with a bright, golden-yellow liquor. Its flavor is characterized by floral notes, hints of toasted almond, and a sweet, lingering aftertaste of magnolia and honey.

4. Cultivation and Harvest: Yu Lan Xiang Dan Cong is typically harvested in the spring when the tea leaves are young and tender. The traditional processing methods involve withering, rolling, oxidation, and roasting to bring out the tea's full aromatic and flavor potential.
   

The origins of Dan Cong teas date back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and gained significant prominence during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). The Phoenix Mountains (Feng Huang Shan) in Guangdong Province, China, have been known for centuries for their tea cultivation. The high altitudes, misty climate, and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for growing exceptional tea.

Dan Cong tea, a type of oolong, is celebrated for its unique flavor and aromatic profile, which can range from floral and fruity to nutty and herbal. These teas often draw comparisons to natural scents such as orchid, magnolia, and honey. The term "Dan Cong" translates to single bush, single tree, single grove, or single strain, indicating that each tea comes from a single tea tree or bush.

Unique Terroir of the Phoenix Mountains

The Phoenix Mountains provide an ideal environment for tea cultivation. The combination of high altitudes, misty climate, and rich, fertile soil contributes to the distinctive qualities of Dan Cong teas. This unique terroir, paired with traditional cultivation and processing methods, results in teas with complex flavors and aromatic profiles.

Development and Cultivation of Dan Cong

The method of cultivating tea bushes individually, known as "Dan Cong," allows each bush to develop its unique characteristics. This approach has led to a wide variety of Dan Cong teas, each with a distinct flavor and aroma. The meticulous process involves hand-picking the leaves, withering, rolling, oxidizing, and roasting, which enhances the tea's unique attributes.

Dan Cong teas are renowned for their distinctive fragrances, often reminiscent of orchid, magnolia, and honey, providing an exceptional sensory experience. This meticulous cultivation and processing ensure that each cup of Dan Cong tea offers a rich and varied tasting experience.

• • Antioxidant Properties: Rich in antioxidants that help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

  • Aids Digestion: This tea is often consumed after meals to aid in digestion and promote overall digestive health.

  • Energizing Effects: Contains a moderate amount of caffeine, providing a sustained energy boost without the sharp rise and fall associated with coffee.

  • Stress Relief: The natural floral aroma is considered soothing, helping to reduce stress and improve mood.

Preparation Method

1. Western Preparation:

   • Use 4 grams of tea per 6-8oz of 190°F (88°C) using a teapot, kyusu or infuser mug

   • Steep for 1-3 minutes

   • Good for multiple steeps

2. Eastern Preparation with rinse (Gong Fu Cha):

   • Use 4-5 grams of tea per 100ml of water at 200°F (93°C) using a gaiwan or small teapot

   • Flash rinse the leaves to awaken and prepare

   • Steep for 10-20 seconds

   • Increase steeping time by 5-10 seconds with each subsequent infusion

   • Enjoy multiple infusions to savor the evolving flavors