When it comes to defining good tea, opinions abound.
Some claim that high-mountain tea is inherently good; others argue that rare varieties, organic teas, or teas produced by multi-generational tea farmers fit the bill.
While these ideas are not entirely correct, they’re not entirely wrong either.
From a consumer’s perspective, what truly matters is taste and personal preference.
For those who wish to delve deeper, here are some general standards for evaluating good tea:
Basic Requirements
- No Off-Flavors or Strange Tastes
Good tea should not have unpleasant tastes such as bitterness, off-flavors, raw or stale notes, or even moldy aromas. The key is a smooth, comfortable drinking experience without distractions.- Astringency: This is a special case. While high-quality tea, especially oolong, generally avoids bitterness or astringency, certain types like green tea can develop bitterness, and Ruby Red tea can exhibit astringency. Appropriate levels of astringency can enhance the depth of tea liquor when it quickly fades without discomfort.
- Distinct Varietal Characteristics
Taiwan alone offers dozens of common tea varieties, each with unique attributes (e.g., Jin Xuan tea should have milky or pineapple notes; Ruby Red tea should feature cinnamon and mint; high-mountain oolong should exhibit floral and mountain freshness). Achieving these requires both high-quality leaves and precise crafting techniques. - Rich Extractable Substances
Beyond aroma, the composition of a tea matters. Rich extractable compounds like pectins, amino acids, and minerals create a more dynamic flavor profile. Generally, high-mountain teas contain more of these substances than lowland teas, giving them an advantage in this category. - Bright and Clear Liquor Appearance
A clear, vibrant tea liquor often indicates stable leaf quality, which is strongly associated with overall tea excellence. - Complete, Elastic Tea Leaves
After brewing, examine the tea leaves. Intact, springy leaves are a sign of good raw materials and proper processing. Leaves that are overly fragmented or mushy usually reflect lower-quality leaves or suboptimal production.
Our Standards
- A harmonious blend of aroma, flavor, and aftertaste characteristic of each tea.
- A distinctive quality that sets the tea apart from standard market offerings.
Bonus Points (Not necessarily tastier, but often pricier)
- Origin or altitude of production.
- Crafted by a renowned tea master.
- Award-winning teas.
For beginners, adhering to the basic requirements is sufficient for selecting good tea.
For those with a keen palate, discerning tea quality at higher levels becomes possible with experience.
As for bonus points, they depend on personal preference and budget.
Cloudy Valley, Formosa tea 
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