Echoes from the Mist: A Journey for Jin Xuan and Dong Ding Oolong

In the lush, verdant expanse of Taiwan's mountainous terrain, where the air is crisp and the earth whispers ancient tales, two young tea enthusiasts, Mei and Jia, embarked on a quest. Their mission was not merely to find tea, but to discover the soul-stirring secrets of Jin Xuan and Dong Ding Oolong, hidden deep within the mists of Alishan and Nantou’s Lugu Township.

The Beginning of the Quest

Mei, a botanist with a passion for the intricate dance of nature's elements, and Jia, a history student enamored by Taiwan’s rich cultural tapestry, met at a university tea club. United by their love for tea, they decided to venture into the mountains after learning about the legendary teas from an old tea master who spoke of leaves that "flavored the clouds."

Ascent to Alishan

Their journey began in the predawn silence as they ascended Alishan, known for its breathtaking sunrises and the mystical Jin Xuan, also known as Milk Oolong for its creamy, buttery texture and light floral undertones. As they climbed, the path grew misty, the mountain seemed to envelop them in a cool, gentle embrace. Here, Mei noted the unique flora contributing to Jin Xuan’s subtle flavors, while Jia documented stories whispered by the wind, of spirits and guardians of the sacred groves.

Reaching a secluded garden at dawn, they were greeted by an old gardener, who demonstrated the art of harvesting and processing Jin Xuan. He spoke of the tea’s rejuvenating properties and its bond with the mountain’s soul. Under his guidance, Mei and Jia prepared their first brew of Jin Xuan Tea, experiencing a flavor that was as enchanting as the sunrise itself.

Journey to Lugu Township

Next, they descended Alishan and headed towards Nantou, where the robust Dong Ding Oolong Tea waited. Originating from the mist-covered slopes of Lugu Township, Dong Ding is famed for its rich aroma and a complex flavor profile that includes sweet, woody, and nutty notes.

In Lugu, they met a family of tea farmers who traced their lineage back several generations. These guardians of tradition taught them the meticulous process of oxidizing and roasting the leaves, a craft perfected over decades. At dusk, surrounded by the thick fog of the mountains, Mei and Jia savored the deep flavors of Dong Ding, each sip echoing the storied history of the region.

The Return

With their backpacks filled with precious leaves and hearts full of stories, Mei and Jia returned. They brought back more than just tea; they carried the essence of the mountains, the whispers of the mist, and a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage that shaped these legendary brews.

Their journey concluded at the university, where they shared their findings and samples with fellow enthusiasts, inspiring others with their tales of the celestial teas of Taiwan. Mei’s botanical notes and Jia’s historical narratives together painted a picture of their journey—a testament to their adventure and a tribute to the timeless tradition of tea.