The Tao of Tea Black Dragon Oolong Loose Leaf Tea — 3.5 oz Tin, Tightly Rolled Pellets & Toasted Sweet Grain Finish

Black Dragon from The Tao of Tea is a 3.5-ounce loose-leaf oolong from Anxi, Fujian, that brews tightly rolled leaves into multiple cups with a toasted, sweet grain finish.

Harvested and hand-processed in the notable tea region of Anxi, this Black Dragon oolong sits around a mid-range oxidation level that yields a deeper color and rounder flavor than light green oolongs. The leaves arrive tightly curled into small pellets; when steeped they unfurl to release layered aromas and permit repeated infusions. Packaged in a compact tin, this tea is suited for daily sipping, gongfu-style tasting sessions, or as a portable home select.

What does Black Dragon taste like and how does it change across infusions?

Expect a toasted, slightly nutty aroma followed by a sweet, grain-like aftertaste with persistent strength. Early steeps emphasize toasty and vegetal notes; later infusions soften into mellower, sweeter nuances while maintaining body and clarity.

• Primary notes: toasted/nutty aroma and sweet grain finish.
• Structure: medium body with clear liquor and lasting flavor.
• Infusions: leaves allow multiple steepings, each evolving in sweetness.
• Oxidation level: roughly 40% for deeper color and rounder taste.

How should I brew this 3.5 oz loose-leaf oolong for best results?

Use water just below boiling to coax open the rolled leaves without burning them. Shorter, repeated steepings bring out complexity; adjust time and leaf amount to suit strength preferences.

• Leaf dose: 5–7 g per 150–200 ml for gongfu; 1–2 tsp per cup for Western-style.
• Water temperature: 90–95°C (194–203°F).
• Steeping times: 15–30 seconds for initial gongfu infusions, increasing gradually; 2.5–4 minutes for a single larger cup.
• Re-steeping: leaves typically deliver 4–6 reliable infusions.

Where does this tea come from and what makes its processing distinct?

Black Dragon is sourced from Anxi in Fujian province, an area known for producing refined oolongs. Leaves are partially oxidized and gently roasted, then rolled into pellet shapes that preserve freshness and release flavor gradually when brewed.

• Origin: Anxi, Fujian, China—an established oolong region.
• Processing: partial oxidation (~40%) and light toasting for depth.
• Form: tightly rolled pellet leaves that unfurl on infusion.
• Handcrafted: artisanal handling yields consistent aroma and finish.

How is this packaged and how long will it stay fresh?

The tea arrives in a sealed 3.5-ounce tin that shields leaves from light and moisture for everyday storage. Kept in a cool, dry place away from strong odors, the tea maintains its character for several months to a year depending on conditions.

• Packaging: compact metal tin for light and moisture protection.
• Size: 3.5-ounce (approximately 100 g) loose-leaf portioning for regular use.
• Storage tips: airtight container, cool and odor-free environment recommended.
• Shelf life: best enjoyed within months for peak aroma; remains usable longer if stored well.

Who this is for: Black Dragon appeals to tea drinkers who enjoy structured, medium-oxidized oolongs with toasted character and multiple infusions. It's a good choice for people exploring Anxi-style teas, those who prefer a richer oolong than very light greens, and anyone who values a reusable tin and handcrafted leaf presentation for daily ritual or tasting sessions.

Ingredients

Oolong Tea Leaves