Nepali Oolong Tea from Ilam, Nepal (Loose Leaf, Hand-Rolled)
Looking for nepal oolong or nepal oolong tea that’s smooth, fragrant, and not harsh? This collection features Nepali oolong tea from the high-elevation gardens of Ilam—hand-rolled, small-batch, and naturally layered (often floral, honeyed, or gently toasted).
If you’ve searched for oolong tea in Nepal, Nepal tea, or Ilam tea with a refined, silky finish, you’re in the right place.
- Amber + stone-fruit warmth for an easy daily cup
- Floral + silky complexity with clean sweetness
- Toasty / smoked depth for cozy, bold brewing
- Layered flavor: honeyed, floral, and gently toasted notes (not flat or grassy)
- Balanced caffeine feel: many drink it for a calm lift and steady focus
- Whole-leaf value: re-steeps 2–4 times, so one serving can become multiple cups
- Boston-based, woman-owned
- Since 2012
- Single-origin, small-batch
- Air-freighted for freshness
- Ships via USPS or UPS
Explore Four Oolong Styles
Pick your flavor direction. If you’re new and want a “safe first buy,” start with amber-style oolong. If you’re hunting for the best oolong tea for cozy evenings, go smoked.
Smooth, amber comfort with gentle sweetness.
- Profile: honeyed, aromatic, gently toasty
- Best for: first-time oolong buyers and everyday sipping
- Iced tip: brew slightly stronger, pour over ice
Richer, silky, dessert-leaning notes without heaviness.
- Notes: toasted pecan, honey, stone fruit
- Best for: afternoon focus and a more indulgent cup
- Brewing: shorter steeps keep it extra smooth
Bright-golden, fragrant, and clean on the finish.
- Notes: floral, nutty, gently fruity
- Style: uplifting and aromatic without grassy edges
- Try this: 2–3 minute steeps for maximum lift
Bold oak-smoked depth for cozy evenings.
- Notes: smoked oak, dark caramel, burnt sugar
- Best for: after-dinner sipping and savory pairings
- Tip: keep steeps shorter for smoother smoke
How to Brew Oolong Tea Smoothly
- Water temperature: 185–205°F (85–96°C)
- Leaf amount: 1–2 tsp per 8 oz
- Steep time: 2–4 minutes (shorter = brighter; longer = deeper)
- Re-steep: 2–4 times for most whole-leaf oolongs
- Iced tip: brew slightly stronger, then pour over ice
| Style | Water | Time | What you’ll notice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Floral + aromatic bright, fragrant |
185–195°F | 2–3 min | More lift and perfume, less intensity. |
| Amber + honeyed smooth, cozy |
195–205°F | 3–4 min | Rounder body, deeper sweetness. |
| Smoked + bold oak depth |
200–205°F | 2–3 min | Cleaner smoke when you keep steeps shorter. |
| Re-steeps 2–4 rounds |
Same | +30–60 sec | Flavor evolves: aroma first, then warmth and sweetness. |
We source directly from smallholder farms in Nepal’s Ilam region with a focus on traceability, quality, and long-term relationships. Ruby Organic Oolong and Annapurna Amber Oolong are USDA Organic certified. Other oolongs may be grown using organic practices but may not be certified—check each tea’s product page for the most accurate status.
Shop USDA Organic Teas
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Annapurna Amber Organic Oolong Tea
Nepali Oolong Tea FAQs
Caffeine, brewing, and organic info—quick answers about oolong tea from Nepal.
What is oolong tea?
Oolong is a partially oxidized tea that sits between green and black tea. That “in-between” style creates a layered cup—often floral or honeyed, with a smooth body and a clean finish.
Is oolong tea closer to green tea or black tea?
It can lean either way. Lighter oolongs feel more floral and bright (closer to green), while more oxidized or roasted oolongs taste deeper and toastier (closer to black).
Does oolong tea have caffeine?
Yes. Oolong naturally contains caffeine, and many people describe it as a balanced, steady lift. The exact amount varies most by how much leaf you use and how long you steep.
How do I brew loose leaf oolong tea so it stays smooth (not bitter)?
Use 185–205°F water, about 1–2 teaspoons per 8 oz, and steep 2–4 minutes. Start shorter for brighter, floral styles and go a bit longer for deeper, toastier lots. Most whole-leaf oolongs re-steep 2–4 times.
Which Nepal oolong tea from Ilam should I start with?
For an easy, amber, naturally sweet daily cup, start with Annapurna Amber Organic Oolong. For a silkier, richer profile with dessert-leaning notes, try Ruby Organic Oolong. If you love smoky depth, Tihar Smoked Oolong is the bold pick.
What does Nepali oolong tea taste like?
Nepali oolongs from Ilam range from honeyed and gently toasty to floral and fragrant, with a smooth texture and a clean finish. They’re loved for feeling rich without tasting heavy.
How many times can I re-steep oolong tea?
Most whole-leaf oolongs can be re-steeped 2–4 times. Many people enjoy the first steep for aroma, then later steeps for deeper sweetness and warmth.
Which oolong teas are USDA Organic certified?
Ruby Organic Oolong and Annapurna Amber Organic Oolong are USDA Organic certified. Other oolongs may be grown using organic practices but may not be certified—check each product page for the most accurate status.
How should I store oolong tea to keep it fresh?
Store oolong in an airtight container away from heat, light, moisture, and strong odors. Keep scoops dry and reseal tightly after each use for the best flavor.