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Honey Orchid Phoenix

Honey Orchid Phoenix

Grade
Year
Option
Regular price $49.95 USD
Regular price Sale price $49.95 USD
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Extremely complex dark oolong tea, busting with flavor. It contains 25 servings, which can be infused more than 7 times each.

Region πŸ’¬The region where tea is grown influences its flavor, aroma, and quality. Different climates, altitudes, and soil types contribute to unique characteristics specific to each area.
Phoenix (Fenghuang), Mountain, Guangdong, China
Harvest πŸ’¬The season when the tea is harvested affects its flavor profile. Early spring teas, known as first flush, are often lighter and more delicate, while later harvests can be bolder and more robust.
Mid spring 2024
Cultivar πŸ’¬ Cultivar refers to the specific variety of tea plant used. Different cultivars have distinct flavor profiles, growth patterns, and adaptability to environmental conditions.
Mi Lan Xiang
Pluck set πŸ’¬ The pluck set describes the combination of leaves and buds that are harvested. For example, 'one bud and two leaves' is a common standard that can impact the tea's flavor, texture, and quality."
1 bud with 2-3 leaves
Caffeine πŸ’¬Caffeine levels vary between tea types and can be influenced by factors like leaf size, processing methods, and steeping time.
High
Roast πŸ’¬Roast level refers to how much heat has been applied to the leaves during processing. A higher roast imparts deeper, toasty notes, while lighter roasts preserve the tea’s natural floral or vegetal character.
Medium (multiple stages)
Oxidation πŸ’¬Oxidation is the process of exposing tea leaves to air, which changes their color and flavor. Higher oxidation levels result in darker, more robust teas, while lower levels maintain lighter, more delicate flavors.
40%β€”60%
Fermentation πŸ’¬Fermentation is a microbial process used in certain teas like Pu'er to develop complex flavors over time. Higher fermentation levels often produce richer, earthier notes and darker liquor.
N/A

Suggested water temperature

90–95Β°C
(194–203Β°F)

OR Allow kettle to cool for 3 minutes before pouring

Simple brewing method

+ + +
2g
(1 tsp)
tea infuser 240ml
(1 cup)
4-5 mins

To learn more about how to brew Honey Orchid Phoenix, refer to our Universal Tea Brewing Guide.
This tea is part of our Artisan tier, the pinnacle of our three grades, making it a great choice for gifting or celebrating special occasions.

Learn more about how we grade our teas.
100% whole leaf tea
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3 cups of honey orchid phoenix (mi lan xiang) tea being served with the dried tea leaves in the background

Taste & Aroma

Honey Orchid Phoenix (Mi Lan Xiang, θœœε…°ι¦™) is a dark oolong from Guangdong’s Phoenix Mountain, celebrated for its complex profile of lychee sweetness, roasted honey fragrance, and a refreshing hint of astringency. Its pronounced lychee notes, complemented by almond and peach undertones, and orchid-like aroma create an unforgettable tasting experience.

An aerial view of Phoenix river near Phoenix Mountain in China, showing the beautiful, blue water and vast landscape.

Terroir

Honey Orchid Phoenix’s distinctive profile is shaped by the iron- and magnesium-rich soil of Phoenix Mountain. The subtropical climate, with heavy rainfall and sunny intervals, enhances the tea's broad flavor spectrum, allowing for an intense sweetness counterbalanced by a crisp, refreshing astringency.

a 600 year-old  honey orchid phoenix (mi lan xiang) tea tree

History

Honey Orchid Phoenix oolong has been cultivated in the Phoenix Mountain region for generations, with origins tracing back over a thousand years and rising to prominence during the Song dynasty (960–1279). Ancient "mother trees," some over 600 years old, are prized for their deep roots that absorb unique minerals, giving the tea a distinct character and connecting it to its rich heritage.

A multilayered oven roasting honey orchid phoenix (mi lan xiang) tea

Production

The crafting this tea is an intricate process involving key stages: careful spring harvesting, withering to reduce moisture, gentle shaking to initiate oxidation, and roasting to lock in its floral and fruity notes. Rolling and drying complete this labor-intensive process.

a map of where honey orchid phoenix (mi lan xiang) is grown and produced

Geography

Phoenix Mountain in Guangdong Province, China, is home to many prized Phoenix oolong cultivars, including Almond Fragrance (Xing Ren Xiang) and Yellow Sprig (Huang Zhi Xiang), each reflecting the mountain’s rich terroir. Today, this ecological and cultural treasure attracts both tea enthusiasts and conservationists dedicated to protecting its heritage.