The 10 best oolong teas to buy in the UK
Finding the best Oolong tea is always worthwhile, with the delicious hot beverage offering a wonderful alternative to black tea or coffee. However, choosing a new tea can be quite a daunting prospect, especially if you are unfamiliar with the type of tea, which is why we’ve created a handy buying guide!
Below you will find all the information you need to know about Oolong tea making it much easier to find that perfect tasting brew!
What are oolong teas?
Oolong tea is a type of tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant, commonly known as the tea plant, which is the same plant that produces the very popular green tea and black tea. The main difference between these teas is how the plant is processed, with Oolong tea being made from partially oxidised and slightly matured tea leaves. Black tea is produced from fully oxidised leaves whereas green tea leaves are not oxidised at all. So Oolong tea falls somewhere in between these two.
Why should you buy a good oolong tea?
The partial oxidisation of Oolong tea gives it unique properties, including distinct flavours and aromas, while there is a wide selection of good Oolong teas that have different tastes depending on their level of oxidisation, with some being closer to green tea and others closer to black tea. For instance, green Oolong tea is the least oxidised so has a very light and floral flavour not too dissimilar to green tea, while darker Oolong teas have a deeper flavour and rich aroma.
This means you have plenty of choices, with all kinds of delicious flavours available. Moreover, the best Oolong teas are healthy as they are high in antioxidants and can increasing your metabolism after drinking.
How to choose the right oolong tea?
There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to Oolong tea - it’s all down to personal taste! That said, here are a few things to think about to help you choose the best Oolong tea if you are unsure what to look for:
- Oxidisation Level: Oolong tea can be oxidised to various levels and this greatly impacts the taste and aroma. For example, low oxidisation produces Oolong tea with a fresh, bright flavour, often with a subtle sweetness. Those with heavier oxidisation take a deeper and more mellow flavour with a woody undertone, and many fall in-between light and heavy, so you have many options to try out!
- Growing Location: Oolong tea is mostly grown in China but whereabouts in the country its grown can greatly impact its flavour and aroma. For instance, those produced in high altitudes like in the Wuyi mountains take on a distinct taste that is influenced by the higher, rockier growing conditions. Always look out for things like the altitude and province where it’s grown in China, and don’t be afraid of tea that is grown elsewhere! For example, Taiwan produces many popular Oolong teas.
What is the best kind of oolong tea in the UK?
In general, the best Oolong teas can be chosen by their growing area. Here are some of the most popular tea varieties available to buy:
- Dan Chong Tea: Grown in the Guangdong province, this Oolong tea is very popular and has a natural flavour with pleasant flora and fruity aromas.
- Ti Kuan Yun Tea: Grown in higher altitudes in Fujian, this tea is light with a subtle floral and honey flavours with a refreshing finish.
- Da Hong Pao Tea: This is one of the most expensive tea available but also very high quality, with a deep smoky flavour with hints of caramel.
Top 10 list of oolong teas in the UK 2024
The bestseller list compares brands and their oolong teas. Which tea is the best?
- Brew one tea bag per cup for 2-3 minutes.
- Perfect with Chinese food or a joy on it's own. Not bitter like green tea can…
- Popular as an aid to weight loss. No calories and gently raises metabolism.
- pour fresh boiled water into a cold vessel, add a full teaspoon of tea per serving…
- just enough caffeine for a gentle boost to the mind and body. Zero calories when…
- fresh picked tea leaves are dried and lightly oxidised then wrap curled to hold in…
- WE CARE FOR PEOPLE & PLANET - We are now a proudly carbon-neutral & a plastic-neutral…
- ETHICAL, DIRECT & FAIR-TRADE - Our innovative supply chain model ensures that…
- A BRAND WITH A BILLION DREAMS - VAHDAM India is one of India's largest digitally…
- Fujian China Chinese Oolong Tea 100 Teabags (200g) in sealed box
- Bites of Asia - Made in China
- Quantity: 1 package
- Product of Taiwan
- Serve both Cold or Hot ; No added preservatives
- Certified Halal Food
- WE CARE FOR PEOPLE & PLANET - We are now a proudly carbon-neutral & a plastic-neutral…
- ETHICAL, DIRECT & FAIR-TRADE - Our innovative supply chain model ensures that…
- A BRAND WITH A BILLION DREAMS - VAHDAM India is one of India's largest digitally…
- pour fresh boiled water into a cold vessel, add a full teaspoon of tea per serving…
- Oolong has just enough caffeine for a gentle boost to the mind and body. Zero calories…
- freshly picked tea leaves are dried and lightly oxidised then wrap curled to hold…
- 100 percent Natural Oolong Tea is from the Anxi District of Fujian, China, which…
- Between green & black
- Made using whole leaves
- An amazing tea which everyone should try, drink without milk
We participate in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For the list of the best teas, we consider only products that are available on Amazon while the ranking is based on factors such as customer reviews, number of sales and keyword. Last Update: 2023/12/09.