Imperial Ruby Red Robe Loose Leaf Oolong Tea

About This Tea

Imperial Ruby Red Robe (Da Hong Pao) is one of China's most legendary and revered oolong teas, hailing from the dramatic Wuyi Mountains of Fujian Province. This extraordinary "rock oolong" is cultivated in the unique terroir of steep cliff faces where tea bushes grow in mineral-rich soil between ancient rocks, absorbing the essence of the mountain itself. The result is a tea with an unmistakable "yan yun" (rock rhyme)—a distinctive mineral character that sets Wuyi oolongs apart from all others.

Steeped in centuries of legend, Da Hong Pao translates to "Big Red Robe" and is said to have cured a Ming Dynasty emperor's illness, earning the tea its imperial status. The original mother trees, estimated to be over 350 years old, still grow on the cliffs of Wuyi Mountain and are considered national treasures. Our Imperial Ruby Red Robe is crafted from tea bushes descended from these legendary trees, processed using traditional methods that include multiple rounds of roasting to develop the tea's signature deep, complex flavor. This is tea as heritage—bold, storied, and utterly magnificent.

Ingredients

• Wuyi Rock Oolong Tea: Premium Da Hong Pao oolong from the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian Province, China

Brewing Guide

• Water Temperature: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
• Tea Amount: 1–1.5 teaspoons per 8 oz cup (or 5–7g for gongfu brewing)
• Steeping Time: 3–5 minutes for first infusion (or 30 seconds for gongfu style)
• Infusions: Can be steeped 6–8 times, increasing steeping time by 15–30 seconds with each infusion
• Best Practices: Use filtered or spring water for optimal flavor. This tea is ideal for gongfu-style brewing in a gaiwan or Yixing clay teapot, which allows you to experience the tea's evolving character across multiple infusions. Each steep reveals new layers of complexity.

Tasting Notes

Imperial Ruby Red Robe offers a bold, complex flavor profile with the distinctive "rock rhyme" of Wuyi oolongs:

• Mineral: Pronounced rock minerality that is the hallmark of authentic Wuyi oolongs
• Roasted: Deep, satisfying roasted notes with hints of charcoal and toasted grain
• Fruity: Dried stone fruit, plum, and subtle berry undertones
• Floral: Delicate orchid and osmanthus aromatics
• Sweet: Natural honey and caramel sweetness that lingers
• Earthy: Grounding, woody notes with hints of cocoa and tobacco
• Smooth: Full-bodied, velvety mouthfeel with a long, warming finish

The liquor is a deep amber-red with brilliant clarity. The aroma is captivating—roasted, mineral-rich, and complex—evoking the ancient cliffs and misty peaks of the Wuyi Mountains.

Health & Wellness Benefits

Oolong tea, particularly heavily roasted varieties like Da Hong Pao, is celebrated for its balanced health-supportive properties:

• High in Antioxidants: Rich in polyphenols and theaflavins that help combat free radicals and support cellular health
• Metabolism Support: May help support healthy metabolism and weight management
• Heart Health: May support cardiovascular wellness and healthy cholesterol levels
• Mental Clarity: Contains L-theanine, which promotes calm focus and mental alertness
• Digestive Health: The roasting process creates compounds that may support healthy digestion
• Bone Health: Regular oolong consumption may support bone density and strength
• Warming & Grounding: The deep roast creates a warming effect that is comforting and centering
• Moderate Caffeine: Contains approximately 30–50 mg of caffeine per cup—providing balanced energy without jitters

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.