China: Mount Wuyishan Scenic Area – Rock Tea

You can’t visit Wuyishan without tasting the legendary Rock Tea aka Yancha – a type of oolong tea produced exclusively in the volcanic, mineral-rich rock terraces of the Wuyi Mountains. Because the tea bushes grow in the narrow, rocky gorges and cliff crevices, the roots absorb a unique mineral composition from the weathered sandstone. This terroir results in a highly prized characteristic known as Rock Rhyme aka Yan Yun – a complex interplay of deep mineral, roasted, floral, and dark-honey notes that linger on the palate for hours. Unlike light green oolongs, Wuyi Rock Tea undergoes heavy charcoal roasting over many months, resulting in bold woody flavors. And there is a special process or ceremony to brew an drink the tea – first warming the cups with boiling water, then smelling the dry tea leafs for their aroma, then “awakening” the tea with a quick splash and discard of boiling water, then rapid first infusion, followed by long decanting, and finally enjoyment.