Mai Oolong Tea

Man Kumar's journey is steeped in a passion for tea, particularly the elusive oolong. Inspired by the renowned oolongs of Taiwan and China, he embarked on a 14-year quest to replicate these exquisite teas in the unique Nepalese climate. But his dedication went beyond mere replication. For the past 7-8 years, his singular focus has been on perfecting the art of oolong. During peak season, he devotes a staggering 16-18 hours a day to meticulously crafting these exceptional teas.

Man Kumar was a true innovator. He was one of the first people in Nepal to ever make oolong tea, starting a whole new tradition. His unwavering commitment and artistry are evident in every cup of oolong tea he has ever crafted.

Our Mai Oolong's tale starts with hand-picked, mature tea leaves bursting with flavor potential. To unlock this essence, we meticulously extract 20% of their moisture through a gentle withering process. Next, the leaves are left inside a shaking machine for around two to four hours. This action helps to release the natural enzymes within and prepare them for their glorious transformation.

Unlike our Mai Gaba Oolong, the fixing process for Mai Oolong is swifter. This allows the leaves to retain a more vibrant character. Next, instead of rolling, we employ a gentle pressure machine to shape the leaves into small balls. This technique encourages even oxidation during the final drying stage. Finally, the expertly crafted tea is vacuumed in its packaging, and ready to be brewed.

Jasbire Tea Village, Maipokhari, Nepal

This handcrafted tea caters to adventurous palates with its musky notes and melody of fruity sweetness. It is perfect for those who appreciate mature-leaf tea, its quality, craftsmanship, and a delightful surprise in every cup. Whether you're a seasoned tea explorer or simply seeking a delicious and uplifting cup of oolong, Mai Oolong is ready to take your taste buds on a journey.