Tiě Guān Yīn 鐵 觀 音
The Iron Goddess. Tiě Guān Yīn is the most popular of the Oolong tea varieties. It originates from Anxi County in Fujian Province, China, however, much of the quality Tiě Guān Yīn found in Australia also comes from Taiwan.
Why the “Iron Goddess”? It is said that when one drops the leaf of Tiě Guān Yīn into their pot it will make the ringing sound of iron. Guān Yīn is a Bodhisattva of compassion and is often depicted as a female (hence “goddess”, although much of the early Buddhist depicted Guān Yīn as male) and is a model of Chinese beauty and brings relief to those who are enduring suffering. Guān Yīn literally means “observing the cries of the world”.
The Leaf:
The leaf of Tiě Guān Yīn is very aromatic, of a medium size, and can range in colour from a light “fresh” green (as pictured above) or a darker aged brown (roasted). The leaves are more than often “balled” or “rolled”. The aroma is most vital – it should have sense of cleanliness on your palate immediately and one should also be able to “smell the green”. This can take time to appreciate, however, it is worth experimenting with as it can enhance you tea experience greatly.
Brewing:
Brewing is where tea comes to life, the interaction between water, tea, pot, heat, steam, cup, and mouth are part of the meditation of tea (often seen within the ceremony Chadao or Chanoyu). Finding the right water can be difficult, however, out of practical means it is best to ensure you use clean water (sometimes twice boiled). If you have the time boil your water over a live flame. The right pot can make all the difference to the taste and health benefits of tea. Below are some recommendations for making great Tiě Guān Yīn:
- Yixing purple clay pots are the ideal pots for all high-quality Chinese teas and are a must for Gongfu tea,
- Treated cast-iron pots are great for everyday use, traditional Japanese pots allow for a very smooth taste and keep you tea warm for a long time.
- A Gaiwan (pictured below) is recommended for any tea and are especially useful for those making tea for one.
- Ceramic and glass are fine for everyday brewing.
- If using stainless steel for Tiě Guān Yīn you will most likely find that the tea will taste slightly harsh, especially if you let it sit for too long.
Tiě Guān Yīn is a tea that welcomes a higher temperature to most, so water that is just off the boil is perfect for allowing the leaf to fully open and the aromas to expand. Oolong in general is better as a “hot” tea so ensure that you don’t let the water cool too much.
Finding the right Tiě Guān Yīn:
This will naturally depend on your location and how much you are willing to spend. Rather than suggest brands i feel it is more appropriate that you experiment with different brands and importers. If Tiě Guān Yīn is a tea to your liking then the journey of finding the right one and learning how to brew it will be part of the enjoyment of tea.
In good health,
David White Classical Acupuncture
www.classicalacupuncture.com.au
