#011 Wenshan Baochung｜文山包種

2026 Spring Fresh Tea – Newly Arrived!
 
The Chin-Shin-Oolong cultivar grown in Pinglin District is widely recognized as the designated variety for the prestigious Wenshen Paochong Tea Competition and is highly regarded for producing its elegant orchid-like aroma.
 
As the Spring Tea Competition has not yet been held this year, this tea is not a competition-winning entry. However, it comes from a lot intended for future competition submission, and its quality is considered close to the Excellent Award level. It is an excellent choice for those who would like to enjoy this year's Wenshen Paochong Tea before the competition season begins.
 
About Wenshen Paochong Tea
 
Historically, the region known as "Wenshen" referred to what is now Wenshen District and Nangang District in Taipei City, as well as Xindian, Pinglin, Shiding, Shenkeng, and Xizhi in New Taipei City. Some of these areas lie close to the city, making them among the few remaining tea-producing regions in the greater Taipei area.
 
For example, tea gardens can be reached in as little as 20 minutes by car or bus from Nangang Station, a major transportation hub served by Taiwan Railways, High-Speed Rail, and MRT lines. This close proximity between urban life and tea plantations is exceptionally rare. Another famous tea-producing area is Maokong, known for its Tieguanyin tea, which can be accessed by gondola from Taipei Zoo MRT Station in Wenshen District.
 
The Origin of Paochong Tea
 
Approximately 200 years ago, before metal tea canisters became common, tea leaves were sold wrapped in paper (while export tea was packed in wooden crates). At that time, the term "Zhong" referred to the Chin-Shin-Oolong tea cultivar, known in Taiwanese Hokkien as "Chong-á."
 
Tea made from this cultivar and wrapped in paper became known as "Paochong Tea" (literally, "wrapped cultivar tea"), which is believed to be the origin of the name.
 
Pinglin and Wenshen Paochong Tea
 
Among all Wenshen Paochong tea-producing regions, Pinglin is particularly renowned. Its mountain tea gardens, situated at elevations of approximately 400–500 meters, benefit from moist winds blowing inland from the Pacific Ocean, creating a stable, high-humidity environment throughout the year.
 
Pinglin is also known as a true "tea town," with around 80% of local residents involved in the tea industry in some capacity.
 
Aroma Characteristics and Production Method
 
The defining characteristic of Wenshen Paochong Tea is its naturally floral fragrance, despite having no flowers added during processing.
 
This aroma is developed during the withering stage, when moisture is gradually reduced from the leaves, followed by repeated tossing and agitation to ensure even exposure to air. Tea masters carefully adjust the intensity and frequency of agitation according to weather conditions and leaf characteristics, making craftsmanship a critical factor in determining quality.
 
This delicate floral aroma is the hallmark of premium Paochong tea. Teas with especially outstanding fragrance often receive high rankings at the spring and winter tea competitions and may command premium market prices.
 
Product Highlights
 
**Aroma:** Elegant notes of orchid, ginger lily, and fresh lemon
 
**Cultivar:** Chin-Shin-Oolong (青心烏龍)
 
**Origin:** Pinglin District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
 
**Elevation:** Approximately 450 meters
 
**Oxidation Level:** Lightly oxidized (★☆☆☆☆)
 
**Roasting Level:** Minimal roasting (★☆☆☆☆)
 
**Processing:** Withering → Tossing → Pan-firing → Rolling → Drying
 
**Harvest Seasons:** Spring (April) and Autumn (October)
 
Storage Recommendations
 
After opening, store the tea away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. For the best flavor and aroma, we recommend consuming it as soon as possible after opening.