Tie Luo Han rock oolong

Tie Luo Han – "Iron Warrior Monk"

Tie Luo Han (鐵羅漢) , or “Iron Warrior Monk”, is one of the oldest and most characteristic members of the Four Great Rock Teas (四大名欉 – Si Da Ming Cong ) of the Wuyi Mountains. According to legend, a warrior monk from a monastery discovered this special tea plant among the caves and rocks of Wuyishan – making the tea a symbol of inner strength and quiet depth not only in its taste but also in its spirituality.

This tea is like a story that slowly unfolds. From the first sip, you can feel that it is full-bodied, deep, fiery , but with each infusion it becomes softer, sweeter, and more nuanced . The first infusion is dominated by roasted hazelnuts, caramel, cinnamon, and cocoa beans, while later on, ripe fruits , cedar wood , dried flowers , and the subdued aroma of damp forest litter emerge.

Tea profile

• Origin: Wuyishan National Park, Zhengyan (inland growing area)

• Harvest: May 7, 2023.

• Processing: Medium oxidation, three times medium charcoal roasting (last: August 25, 2023)

• Producer: Chen family, from older tea trees

• Category: Ming Cong – one of the four original breeds

The tea has a strong cha qi (茶气) – a feeling of heat, energy, physical and mental presence. Its flavor is deep, long-lasting, and resonates in the mouth even after the last pours.

Recommended preparation

Asian style (gaiwan or yixing pot):

• 5–6g/100ml

• 95–100 °C water

• Short (5–10 sec) multiple pours

• The 2nd–3rd pours show the greatest complexity

In Western style:

• 3g / 250ml

• 90–95 °C water

• 2–3 minutes, up to 2–3 pours

With cold soaking:

• 5 g / 500-600 ml cold water

• 8–10 hours in the refrigerator

• A silky, surprisingly aromatic, cool drink

Name meaning and symbolism

The “Iron Warrior Monk” is not only a mythical figure, but also an exact reflection of the character of the tea : strong and massive on the outside, delicately spiritual on the inside. It is not easy to indulge, but those who approach it attentively will receive a special experience. Tie Luo Han is a true companion for quiet tea drinking, contemplation , or for those who have already gone beyond the search for surface aromas and desire a deeper resonance.