OOLONG TEAS
Are sub-divided into Ankois, Amoys, Foochows, Formosas, Saryune and Pekoe-Oolongs, grading from lowest to highest in the order named.
Ankoi Oolong—Is a doubtful species of the genus tea and said to be prepared solely from the leaves of a shrub closely resembling but widely distinct from those of the true tea plant. The leaf is rough and coarse, reddish-black in color, indifferently prepared, and ragged in general appearance, while the liquor is dark-brown, oily or earthy in flavor and bitterly astringent to the taste. It is generally used for mixing with low-grade Amoys, to which it imparts a wild, rank or weedy flavor, and should be avoided by the dealer altogether.
Amoy Oolongs—Embrace Kokew, Mohea and Ningyong Oolong teas and are fairly good teas for blending purposes, many of them drawing and drinking exceedingly well in the cup. The leaf, while large and somewhat coarse in appearance, is well prepared as a rule, while the liquor is clear, strong and frequently pungent. The poorer grades, however, possess a wild or herby flavor, strongly objected to by the majority of tea consumers.
Foochow Oolong—Ranks among the best of the black teas of China. The leaf of the finer grades being black and silky in appearance, rich and mellow in liquor and fragrant in flavor, while the medium and lower grades are somewhat larger and looser in make they possess splendid cup qualities, making the most suitable foundation for all blends in this country, being useful and serviceable for the purpose.
Formosa Oolong—Is unique in leaf, liquor and flavor, differing widely in character and flavor from the former varieties. They possess a rich, fragrant aroma, the leaf being very pleasing in the hand, evenly curled and crapy in texture, and impart tone and character to any combination in which they may be introduced.
Saryune and Pekoe Oolongs—Are very rare sorts in this market, the latter deriving its trade-name from being liberally sprinkled with Pekoe-tipped leaves. They are somewhat large and bold in style, evenly curled and pleasing in appearance. The infusion being dark brown in color, heavy and full in body and very fragrant in flavor.