Key Facts
- Oolong is semi-fermented, Pu-erh is fully fermented.
- Both originate from China, but differ significantly in taste and effect.
- Oolong: floral, creamy, balancing
- Pu-erh: earthy, deep, digestive
- Both teas can be steeped multiple times, revealing new nuances each time.
Oolong tea – the balanced middle ground
Oolong tea lies between green and black tea in terms of flavor and oxidation. Its spectrum ranges from floral and mellow to mineral and lightly roasted. Traditionally produced in Taiwan and China, oolong offers a complex aroma.
Typical characteristics:
- Partially fermented (15–70%)
- Complex aroma: floral, creamy, nutty
- Balancing and mildly stimulating
Known varieties:
- Tie Guan Yin: floral & classic
- Gabalong: soft, with a high GABA concentration
- Oriental Beauty : elegant, fruity
Oolong is suitable for quiet afternoons, focused work, or moments of mindfulness.
Pu-erh tea – fermented, matured, full of character
Pu-erh originates from Yunnan province and is unique due to its fermentation and maturation process. It is processed either raw (sheng) or mature (shou) and can be stored for years. During this time, the flavor becomes deeper, rounder, and earthier.
Typical characteristics:
- Fully fermented (post-fermented)
- Can be stored and matures over years
- Earthy, smooth taste with a dark cup color
Variants:
- Sheng (Raw): young, fruity-tart, matures over time
- Shou (Ripe): round, soft, ready to drink immediately
Pu Erh is ideal after meals, for digestion, or for deep meditative moments.
The difference at a glance
| feature | Oolong | Pu Erh |
|---|---|---|
| fermentation | Partially (15–70%) | Complete (post-fermented) |
| The taste | Floral, creamy, slightly nutty | Earthy, deep, mature |
| Effect | Balancing, gently stimulating | Soothing, aids digestion |
| preparation | 85–95 °C, 2–3 min., refill several times | 95–100 °C, 20–60 sec., multiple cycles possible |
Our recommendations from the Noema range
Oolong teas |
profile |
| Tie Guan Yin | Floral, classic, refillable |
| Milky Oolong | Creamy, soft, slightly sweet |
| Oriental Beauty | Fruity, slightly oxidized |
Pu-erh teas |
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| Yunnan Pu Erh (Shou) | An earthy classic for everyday life |
| Mini Tuo Chas (Shou) | Practical & round, ideal for travel |
| Menghai Five Years (Sheng) | Mature, complex, collector's item |
| Pu Erh Chai | Spice infusion with depth |
