Taiwanese (Formosa) Tea
Formosa means "Beautiful Island" in Portuguese and was the name given to Taiwan by Portuguese Explorers in 1544. While it is no longer called Formosa today, the name stuck in the tea trade. The first tea bushes were planted in Formosa roughly 300 years ago. The plants were transferred from China's Fujian province. Nearly all plantations are at relatively low elevations (below 1,000 feet). There are a total of five harvests starting in April and ending in December. Formosa is primarily known for its Oolong teas.
Famous Formosa Teas
Formosa Pouchong This lightly oxidized tea has large, wavy, dark green leaves, a pale, yellow-golden cup and a very delicate flavor and aroma with a sweet, fragrant finish. Example: Formosa Pouchong.
Tung Ting Another lightly oxidized, or "green" Oolong, Tung Ting (or Dong Ding) is notable for its tightly rolled leaves and sweet, floral aroma. Ali Shan is another tea in this same style but is exclusive to Taiwan's Ali Mountain. Look for light fragrances, a buttery finish, and floral notes like lilac. Example: Ali Shan.
Formosa Fancy The most popular tea coming out of Taiwan goes by the names Formosa Fancy Oolong, Oriental Beauty, White Tip (Bai Hao) Pong Fong, Dong Fang Mei Ren, Five Color tea and many others. This excellent tea is grown in the highlands of northern Taiwan and is usually oxidized roughly 70%. The open leaves and generous white tips distinguish this tea from most other Oolongs. Look for bold, smooth flavors of honey, ripe fruit and wet stone. Example: Formosa Fancy Oolong #40.