Oolong is the most diverse tea category in the world — semi-oxidized between 10% and 85%, it ranges from creamy and floral to roasted and mineral. Brewing oolong correctly depends on which style you're working with. Here's your complete guide.
Two Key Variables: Temperature & Vessel
Oolong rewards you with 6–10+ infusions when brewed Gongfu-style in a small gaiwan or Yixing teapot. The small vessel concentrates flavour and lets you taste the tea evolving with each pour.
Temperature by Style
- Light oolongs (Milk Oolong, Nai Xiang Jin Xuan): 85–90°C
- Medium oolongs (Tie Guan Yin, Dan Cong): 90–95°C
- Roasted / rock oolongs (Da Hong Pao, Zhou Gui, Shui Xian): 95–100°C
Gongfu Brewing — Standard Method
- Warm your gaiwan or teapot with boiling water. Discard the rinse water.
- Add 5–6g of oolong per 150ml.
- Optional but recommended: a quick 5-second rinse to open the leaves.
- First infusion: 20–40 seconds (shorter for first, longer as you go).
- Add 10–15 seconds per subsequent infusion.
- Most oolongs give 6–10 infusions; Wuyi rock oolongs can go even longer.
Brewing Tips by Type
Milk Oolong (Nai Xiang Jin Xuan)
Use 85–90°C water. Its creamy, buttery character is delicate — too hot water will flatten it. Short first infusion, 30–40 seconds. Shop Milk Oolong →
Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy)
90°C water. Light oxidation style: bright, floral, orchid. Roasted style: warmer, nutty, caramel. Both benefit from multiple short infusions. Shop Tie Guan Yin →
Wuyi Rock Oolongs (Da Hong Pao, Zhou Gui, Shui Xian)
Use near-boiling water (95–100°C). These teas are built for high heat — it's what unlocks their characteristic mineral depth (yan yun). A Yixing clay teapot works especially well here. Shop Wuyi Rock Tea →
Phoenix Dan Cong (FHDC)
90–95°C. Each batch has its own aromatic character — honeyed, orchid, or fruity. Start with a 5-second rinse, then brew 20–30 seconds for the first infusion. Shop Dan Cong →
Oolong Teas at Gaba Tea House
We carry the full range of premium oolongs — from Taiwanese high-mountain teas to legendary Wuyi rock oolongs. Explore our Oolong collection →