Ginseng Oolong

Oolong teas are semi-oxidized teas, typically made from the larger, more mature leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Ginseng oolong is a rolled oolong coated with powdered ginseng and licorice root.

Our ginseng oolong brews a nutty and smooth cup with a light roasted flavor that gives way to a long lasting sweetness.

What is Ginseng Oolong?

Ginseng oolong, also known as the King’s tea and Lan Gui Ren (Lady Orchid), was developed in China to be served to the emperor. This tribute tea was made by coating rolled oolongs with ginseng powder, licorice powder, and occasionally other herbal powders. Ginseng oolong teas have a distinct sweet licorice aftertaste.

The particular ginseng oolong we are offering is a Taiwanese oolong coated with American ginseng powder and a touch of licorice powder for sweetness. This tea brews a deep amber liquor that is smooth with a light roast and nuttiness. The licorice adds a lingering sweetness, reminiscent of monk fruit.

What is Ginseng?

Ginseng is revered in traditional Chinese medicine as the king of herbal medicines. Stories of anti-aging, energy-boosting, ailment-warding, and curse-all effects can be found throughout history. While these claims about ginseng don't have any conclusive evidence, many people get a boost of energy and claim to feel healthier after consuming the herb.

How to enjoy Ginseng Oolong

Our ginseng oolong can be enjoyed in several ways. Brewed gongfu style, you get a smooth, roasted cup with a lasting sweetness that coats the mouth. This sweetness is fairly pronounced for the first few steeps before fading to woody, mineral notes with a slight tingle of menthol. Ginseng oolong also does well when brewed in a more western style. This particular tea can be steeped quite a few times as the leaves hold a lot of flavor.

The crowd favorite method of drinking this tea is with milk and sugar. The roasted, nutty notes of this tea pair well with a splash of cream and just a touch of sweetener for an indulgent milk tea. This drink reminds me of a traditional roasted oolong milk tea with a uniquely sweet aftertaste.

My personal favorite way to enjoy this oolong is iced with a squeeze of lemon. You can even skip the sugar since there is the natural sweetness of the tea. I do recommend brewing the tea hot and then chilling or pouring over ice as the ginseng and licorice release more flavor in near boiling water. 

Darwin Wu - Co-Founder of Camellia Rd, Chronic Procrastinator