This tea comes from Mai Pokhari Tea Estate in Jasbire, Nepal, a biodiverse region known for its pristine forests and the red pandas that roam freely in the area. Gaba Oolong and Red Panda Oolong remains among producer Man Kumar Mukhiya’s best-selling and most celebrated teas.

Oolong Tea (Camellia Sinensis)

Oolong teas undergo a longer and more intricate production process than other tea types, requiring careful attention at every stage to develop their depth and character. This Gaba Oolong is made from the Tagda 78 cultivar and follows a heavily oxidized oolong style.

Hand-plucked leaves are withered until they lose about 30–35% of their moisture, followed by an initial fermentation of 10–12 hours. The leaves are then placed in a setting machine to promote further oxidation for several hours.

The next day, the leaves undergo a second fermentation of 10–12 hours. Once the desired aroma and flavor profile develop, they are transferred to a fixing machine, similar to the enzyming step used in green tea production. Fixing is done at temperatures above 300°C for 10–15 minutes to halt oxidation.

After fixing, the leaves are lightly rolled for a few minutes, shaped into pearls, then dried for approximately 20 hours before sorting and packaging.

Gaba Oolong comes from Mai Pokhari Tea Estate. Man Kumar's journey is steeped in a passion for tea, particularly the elusive oolong. Inspired by the renowned oolongs of Taiwan and China, he embarked on a 14-year quest to replicate these exquisite teas in the unique Nepalese climate. But his dedication went beyond mere replication. For the past decade, his singular focus has been on perfecting the art of oolong. During peak season, he devotes a staggering 16-18 hours a day to meticulously crafting these exceptional teas.

Man Kumar is a true innovator. He is one of the first people in Nepal to ever make oolong tea, starting a whole new tradition. His unwavering commitment and artistry are evident in every cup of oolong tea he has ever crafted.

If you are someone who appreciates the delicate sweetness of figs and the vibrancy of floral notes, Gaba Oolong will suit your taste buds. This isn't just any oolong; it’s the most unique oolong. It's a testament to dedication and years of expertise, perfect for adventurous tea enthusiasts and those who value quality and a complex flavor profile.