Cadence

Cadence is a traditionally-processed oolong from Li Shan (梨山), “Pear Mountain,” in Taiwan. All tea is its environment. As Wu De often says, “The leaf is the tree’s expression of its relationship with its environment.” A healthy environment is a requirement of fine tea, in other words. Grown at almost 2,000 meters above sea level, this beautiful garden is a great place for tea.

Cadence comes from a small, artisanal and organic farm full of rich minerals, daily mists and plenty of rain. There is nice biodiversity there with plenty of undergrowth, flowers, insects and wildlife. The altitude also affects the tea, creating a strong uplifting energy and beautiful aroma. This tea is made from Qing Xin (青心), or “Gentle Heart” varietal trees, which thrive at this altitude.

Cadence was masterfully processed and charcoal-roasted in the traditional way. All of Master Tsai Ming Xun’s teas sit for several months, allowing the roast to cool down and creating a full-bodied and complex aroma and flavor, without any trace of the roast itself. The ideal roast does not leave any roasted or burnt flavor, but rather brings out the potential of the tea. The quality of oolong tea is as much in the processing as it is in the raw material (terroir and season).

This is the youngest tea we have offered from this farm. Where Melody shows what these leaves become after two decades in a sealed jar, Cadence is the same garden at the beginning, bright and open, the roast newly settled. It is a beautiful tea to drink now, and a rare chance to lay one down yourself and watch it travel the same road. Like Euphony and Chorus, each cup is transcendently complex, pulling you in as layer upon layer of fragrance and aroma carry you away.