Ume Blossom (Plum Blossom ) Oolong Tea
In many Asian countries, the blossoms of the Ume varietal of Plum tree signal that spring is close at hand. The Ume blossoms appear before the leaves even as snow blankets the tree limbs. This dual character of beauty and perserverance, delicacy and resiliency endear the blossoms to the people of Japan, China and Taiwan. Japan celebrates a plum festival, "Ume Matsuri", in China the blossoms are frequently a symbol of Chinese New Year celebrations, and the Ume blossom is the national flower of Taiwan.
Our Ume Blossom Oolong tea is an inspired blend of organic oolong tea leaves combined with fruit and floral ingredients that echo the flavor of plum and the clean aroma of winter Ume blossoms. In China, the 5 petals of the Ume blossom are symbolic of 5 blessings: living to an old age, good health, wealth, virtue and passing peacefully in a natural death. The plum tree is also one of the "Three Friends of Winter" along with the pine tree and bamboo.
We hope that this oolong blend becomes one of your favorite tea celebrations leading into spring and throughout the year.
How to Prepare Ume Blossom Oolong Tea:
Heat water to 175-180˚F (add a little cool water to boiling water to reduce temperature) and add one rounded teaspoon loose leaf Ume Blossom oolong tea per cup (apprx. 8 ounces). Infuse the tea blend for 2-3 minutes depending on taste preference. May be infused 2-4 additional times. Drink plain. If the natural tartness of the rosehips and hibiscus is too strong, moderate lightly with a sweetener.
Oolong teas are traditionally prepared in smaller earthenware or porcelain tea pots and shared in smaller cups using the pot to brew subsequent infusions. Create your own ceremony or prepare the tea by the cup. Experiment - oolong teas have an incredible range of subtle flavor profiles depending on how they are prepared, how long they are brewed, how pure the water used, etc. and yet they are hardy enough to shine through such a wide range of brewing methods. Everyone finds their own favorite way to prepare and enjoy an exceptional oolong tea.
INGREDIENTS: Organic oolong tea leaves, organic schizandra berries, organic rosehips, organic hibiscus, organic osmanthus blossoms, natural plum flavor. Blended in the USA.
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