Iron Goddess Archetype

Tieguanyin cultivar was introduced to Taiwan from Fujian during the era of Japanese occupation. Tea makers who migrated to the island believed the terroir between the two towns, Anxi and Muzha, to be similar, allowing for the production of a delicious crop in Taiwan.

Instead of replicating a lightly oxidized oolong with delicate floral and grass notes they knew from home, a few tea makers began experimenting with higher oxidation and repeated roasting to transform the flavor. The result is a seductively tangy and delicious roasted oolong that's full of caramelized fruit. Over a few decades, the roasted Tieguanyin became the archetypal Iron Goddess oolong of Taiwan.

This version is from one of our favorite Iron Goddess producers. They sell strictly based on connection, with no storefront, and are almost impossible to locate even if you're standing just a few blocks away. There are only a handful of families left in Muzha making the original Iron Goddess, and undoubtedly, they all know one another and share the same last name.

We suggest brewing this classic version in a clay pot with boiling water to deepen the aroma. The taste is present in all its characters: toasty, fruity, tangy, and unmistakably sassy.

Learn more about Tie Guan Yin or check out our Tea Brewing Guides.