Shan Lin Xi Oolong
Shan Lin Xi, Nantou County, Taiwan
Forest-high oolong with notes of bamboo and forest air—Shan Lin Xi means 'Cedar Forest Creek,' and you can taste it.
The Story
Shan Lin Xi sits at 1,600 meters amid cedar forests and bamboo groves in Nantou County. The name means 'Cedar Forest Creek,' and the environment infuses the tea with woody, bamboo-like notes absent from other high mountain oolongs. The region's slightly lower elevation than Li Shan means more affordable prices while maintaining remarkable quality. Tea gardens here are often small, family-run operations passed down for generations.
Flavor Notes
Perfect For
- Forest bathing indoors
- Cool weather drinking
- Those who love woody notes
- More affordable high mountain experience
- Nature lovers
Pairs Well With
Related Variants
How to Brew
Our recommended approach for the best cup
Water Temperature
195°F
(90°C)
Amount
6g per 100ml (gongfu) or 3g per 200ml (western)
Steep Time
45 sec first steep, +15 sec each (gongfu)
Resteeps
6-8 steeps
Recommended Vessel
Porcelain gaiwan
Brewing Tips
The bamboo-cedar notes are more prominent in earlier steeps; later steeps become sweeter and more floral. If the tea tastes grassy or vegetal, your water is too hot. This tea likes patience.