Legacy Wuyi Rock Oolong Iron Monk Zhen Yan Tie Luo Han
Tie Luo Han – A Legendary Treasure of Wuyi Rock Oolong
Tie Luo Han, one of the original four famous varietals of Wuyi rock oolong, is a rare and legendary tea steeped in history and authenticity. Indigenous to the core-producing rocks of the Wuyi Mountains, its origins trace back to the Song dynasty, predating even the renowned Da Hong Pao. By the Qing dynasty, Tie Luo Han had gained a formidable reputation, especially in Southeast Asia, for its unique medicinal properties and exceptional taste. As the oldest tree bush in the Wuyi rock oolong tradition, it remains one of the most coveted teas in the world, with true Zhen Yan (core rock) tea in perpetual high demand and limited supply.
This extraordinary Tie Luo Han comes from Hui Yuan Keng (慧苑坑), one of the three most celebrated depressions of rocky micro-terroir within the Wuyi Mountains' heart. Hui Yuan Keng is revered not only for its indigenous rock tea varietals but also for its historic Hui Yuan Temple, which adds a spiritual dimension to this exceptional area. Crafted by Master Liu, a tea artisan continuing the legacy of his father, a renowned roasting master from the state-owned Wuyi Rock Tea Factory, this tea embodies generations of expertise. Roasting, a crucial step in achieving Wuyi rock tea’s unparalleled quality, is masterfully executed, bringing out the tea's legendary flavors.
A Tasting Experience Like No Other
Tie Luo Han enchants the senses with its rich layers of flavor and compelling aroma. The strong camphor fragrance – a hallmark of its pristine, natural growing environment – lingers from the first sip to the last. Robust and full-bodied, the tea reveals notes of papaya, peach, rhubarb, baked plum, fig, and creamy minerals, balanced by subtle medicinal hints. Its silky texture and natural sweetness leave a long-lasting impression in both the mouth and nose. Later infusions unveil woody undertones and a remarkable Hou Yun – the throat sensation connoisseurs seek in Wuyi rock oolong.
A Rare and Authentic Masterpiece
This Tie Luo Han is more than just tea; it is a legendary delicacy that embodies the artistry, heritage, and terroir of Wuyi rock oolong. With every sip, it invites you to explore the unparalleled complexity and authenticity that have captivated tea lovers for centuries. A true treasure for those seeking to expand their horizons and experience the pinnacle of Wuyi tea craftsmanship.
Click here for steeping instructions.
Additional Info
Origin: Huiyuan Keng, Wuyi Mountains, Fujian province
Varietal: Tie Luo Han
Harvest: May 2023, completed charcoal-firing in October 2023
Tasting Profile:
Very fragrant, slightly smoky, fruity, notes of papaya, peach, rhubarb, baked plum, fig, and creamy minerals, balanced by subtle medicinal hints. Full bodied and creamy with a sweet aftertaste.