Harvested just once each spring from Lao Cong (Old Bush) tea bushes growing at approximately 1,000 meters in the mountains of Phoenix Mountain (Fenghuang Shan), Guangdong Province, this exceptional Mi Lan Xiang (Honey Orchid) oolong showcases the finest traditions of Phoenix Dan Cong tea.
Limited to a single spring harvest each year, this tea reflects the perfect union of mature old bush material, high-mountain terroir, and the artistry of an experienced tea master.
"Lao Cong" (老枞), meaning "Old Bush," refers to mature tea bushes (80+ yrs) that have spent decades developing deep root systems within Phoenix Mountain's rocky soils. These established bushes draw minerals and nutrients from deep below the surface, producing leaves prized for their exceptional depth, balance, and complexity.
Unlike younger bushes, genuine Lao Cong teas are celebrated for their silky texture, layered aromas, lingering sweetness (hui gan), and the distinctive "old bush character" of floral, honeyed, woody, and mineral notes that unfold throughout multiple infusions.
At 1,000 meters, cool temperatures, frequent mountain mists, and mineral-rich soils slow leaf growth, allowing the tea to develop exceptional aromatic intensity and remarkable depth of flavor. This unique environment gives the tea its vibrant minerality, clean finish, and lasting complexity.
This tea is harvested only once each year during the spring, when the leaves have reached their peak balance of sweetness, aroma, and structure. Restricting production to a single annual harvest results in naturally lower yields while preserving exceptional quality.
After careful harvesting and traditional processing, the leaves undergo a slow, meticulously controlled roast by an experienced tea master. This patient roasting enhances the tea's natural floral aromatics and honeyed sweetness while adding body, warmth, and remarkable smoothness without overshadowing the character of the leaf.
True to its name, Mi Lan Xiang (Honey Orchid) offers captivating aromas of wild orchid and golden honey, complemented by notes of ripe stone fruit, gentle citrus, warm roasted sweetness, and subtle mountain minerals.
The liquor is rich, silky, and full-bodied, revealing layers of honey, orchid, tropical fruit, and mineral complexity. Each infusion finishes with a long-lasting returning sweetness (hui gan), rewarding multiple Gongfu-style infusions with evolving flavors and aromas.
Although this is a Spring 2026 harvest, it is not intended to be consumed like a fresh green tea whose delicate flavors fade within months. Traditional Phoenix Dan Cong oolongs are carefully oxidized and expertly roasted for longevity. When stored properly, they retain their character and are valued for the way their floral, honeyed, and roasted notes become beautifully integrated over time.
Whether enjoyed today or cellared for future enjoyment, this rare Spring 2026 Lao Cong Mi Lan Xiang is an outstanding expression of Phoenix Mountain's old bush heritage, high-elevation terroir, and masterful craftsmanship.
