Collection: Phoenix Dancong
Phoenix Dancong: The Aristocrat of Oolong Tea, a Poetic Blend of Mountain and Water
I. Phoenix Dancong: A Treasured Tea from Chaozhou
Phoenix Dancong, originating from the Phoenix Mountains in Chaozhou, Guangdong, is a premium variety of oolong tea renowned for its distinctive "mountain essence" (Shan Yun), floral aroma, and rich, mellow taste. With a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, it became a tribute tea during the Song Dynasty and was widely exported by the Qing era.
II. The Unique Charm of Phoenix Dancong
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Diverse Varieties, Rich Aromas: Phoenix Dancong boasts hundreds of cultivars, each with its own signature fragrance—honey orchid (Mi Lan Xiang), magnolia (Zhi Lan Xiang), osmanthus (Gui Hua Xiang), almond (Xing Ren Xiang), and more—earning it the title "Perfume of Teas."
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Exquisite Craftsmanship, Superior Quality: Made using traditional methods, it undergoes multiple steps—sun-withering, air-withering, oxidation, fixation, rolling, and roasting—each step meticulously executed.
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Distinct Mountain Essence, Lingering Aftertaste: Grown at high elevations, the tea absorbs the essence of its natural surroundings, delivering a profound Shan Yun that lingers on the palate.
III. A Guide to Tasting Phoenix Dancong
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Observe the Leaves: Tightly rolled, uniform strands with a glossy dark brown hue.
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Inhale the Aroma: Delicate fragrance when dry, blooming into an intoxicating floral bouquet when brewed.
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Savor the Flavor: The golden-amber liquor is smooth, rich, and sweet, with a pronounced mountain character and a long-lasting sweetness.
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Examine the Spent Leaves: Soft, bright leaves with a "green leaf, red edge" appearance indicate high quality.
IV. Brewing Phoenix Dancong
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Teaware: A gaiwan (lidded bowl) or Yixing clay teapot is ideal.
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Water Temperature: Near-boiling (95–100°C) to fully release the aroma.
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Tea-to-Water Ratio: ~1:15 (adjust to taste).
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Steeping Time: Quick initial infusions (5–10 sec), gradually increasing with later brews.
V. Aging Potential
Like fine wine, Phoenix Dancong improves with age. Properly stored, its aroma deepens, and its taste grows mellower and sweeter over time.
VI. Conclusion
Phoenix Dancong is a harmonious fusion of nature and craftsmanship—a rare gem among teas. Each sip transports you to the misty peaks of Chaozhou, offering a poetic experience of oolong tea’s finest artistry.