Fenghuang Dan Cong
Mi Lan Xiang
Honey Orchid Fragrance
2008 Late Spring

• Wu Dong Mountain, Chao Zhou county (Phoenix Mountain)

• Guangdong Province, China

• 70-80% Oxidation

• Charcoal-fired in the traditional manner

• Fairly-large, single, open, flat leaf - this pluck is more slender than most dan congs

• Scotch-like layers of complex flavor with a touch of citrus

• Long-lingering aftertaste of honey and richly-scented flowers

• Bright, slightly floral aroma, with an occasional earthy note

• Multiple infusions

• Light amber-orange liquor

• 3 years aged

Our Mi Lan Xiang dan cong is a real show-stopper. We discovered this by surprise among a group of samples of 'unusual' teas that a trusted colleague sent us several years ago. Having not pointed this tea out to us as anything special, we didn't taste it right away but instead went about tasting the other, time-sensitive samples in the box. Later, when we went back to visit the few teas that we had delayed tasting, we were completely 'wowed' by this dan cong.

This tea gains complexity and becomes more intoxicating with age. We are very glad that we purchased an ample amount of it, as it is drinking so well. I can't imagine being without it, but there will come a day when it is gone. In the meantime, if you are a dark oolong enthusiast, you should not miss this one.

Mi Lan Xiang has subtle layers of 'earth' and honey flavors, and an exotic, floral aroma that is reminiscent of the delicate perfume of orchid flowers. We have featured our 2008 Mi Lan Xiang at many tastings and special events and it always ‘wows’ everyone in the session.

Western-style steeping: (Medium to large sized teapot: 20-32 oz)
Use 1.25 Tablespoons (2-3 grams) of tea per each 6oz water
Steep 1-3 infusions at 2-3 minutes each.
Water temperature should be 195˚ - 205˚ F

Asian-style steeping: (small teapots under 10 oz or a gaiwan)
Use 2.5 Tablespoons (5-6 grams) of tea per each 6oz water
Steep upwards of 6-8 infusions (or more!) at 10 seconds to 1 minute each
Water temperature should be 195˚ - 205˚ F