Tie Guan Yin Guo Xiang “AA” (Iron Goddess of Mercy with Fruity Aroma), 2025

Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) is one of the most well-known Chinese tea varieties today. Its origin is in the southern part of Fujian Province, Anxi County. In modern times, this oolong is celebrated for its light, juicy, and refreshing taste (notes of lilac, abundant fresh greenery, and meadow flowers) and its “positive,” life-affirming tea state. A classic among Chinese oolongs that rarely leaves anyone indifferent.

“Guo Xiang” translates as “fruity aroma” — a variation of Tie Guan Yin with hints of fruit and tropical sweetness.

The dry leaf modestly offers aromas of freshly cut, slightly dark grass and meadow flowers. The leaf itself shimmers with dark emerald tones, interwoven with lighter areas and reddish spots. Along the edges, a red rim appears — zones of higher fermentation, a characteristic feature of oolongs.

The taste is juicy and refreshing, full of restrained floral notes and barely noticeable grassy tartness. Across infusions, it changes very little, maintaining a consistent profile of a freshly blooming spring meadow. The effect is even and calm, with a gentle uplifting of mood.

It is well suited as a balanced morning tea, especially when strong stimulation is not needed, but rather a light tone and harmony.