Taiwan GABA Oolong Tea 2026, 25g | Taiwan

GABA oolong was first developed in Taiwan, where it is also known as Jia Ye Long (佳葉龍). Our Yunnan GABA teas from Tengchong are made in this style, and this tea comes from the Taiwanese tradition that started it. The fresh leaf is processed without oxygen, typically in a nitrogen-filled chamber, which naturally raises its GABA content and changes how the tea oxidises. Offered loose in 25 g packs, a smaller portion than our 50 g Tengchong GABA range.

The anaerobic step gives GABA oolong its distinctive profile, quite different from an ordinary oolong. Expect a warm amber liquor with a gently tangy, fruity sweetness: notes of dried fruit such as raisins, apricot or currants, a soft woody or honeyed base, and a smooth texture with very little astringency. The character changes noticeably across infusions as the fruity tang gives way to a rounder sweetness.

It brews well gongfu style with short steeps and also makes a forgiving, smooth cup in a Western pot. Water just off the boil brings out the fruit; a slightly cooler temperature keeps the cup softer.

A good choice for comparing the original Taiwanese style of GABA oolong with the Tengchong GABA teas, and an easy entry point for anyone new to this unusual style.

Tea profile