Those who find green tea too mild and black tea too strong are now turning to oolong. Because the champagne among teas experiences a new hype in 2023. What makes it so special?

Each infusion brings new aroma

Oolong teas can be infused up to five times and each infusion has a different flavour. They are especially enjoyed by fans of mild teas. From infusion to infusion, the often spherically rolled tea leaves open more and more until the whole leaf can be seen. So the tea changes not only in taste, but also visually, says Kyra Schaper of the "German Tea & Herbal Tea Association".

The "Black Dragon" and its antioxidants

Oolong tea is semi-fermented. That is, its leaves are not heated after harvesting, as is the case with green teas, for example, but they wilt classically in the sun and are then gently rolled to induce the subsequent fermentation. Oolong, which translates as "black dragon," is said to contain more antioxidants than green tea. It is also said to have a digestive effect, which is why it is often served with dim sums at lunchtime in China.

Origin, taste and availability

Oolong teas come mainly from China and Taiwan, but also from Japan and Tanzania. They are primarily available in speciality stores and online stores and come in many flavours, ranging from strong-bready to mild-sweet. Especially popular is the Milky Oolong with a pleasant creamy taste. Fans of milk in their tea can rejoice, because the (Milky) Oolong tastes great with milk or milk alternatives - oat milk being particularly suitable here.