High mountain tea refers to premium varieties of Taiwanese oolong tea cultivated in the high-altitude mountain regions of central Taiwan. These teas are commonly known as Gaoshan tea (高山茶) or Gaoshan oolong. The term Gao means “high,” while shan means “mountain,” and cha means “tea,” collectively referring to tea grown at elevated altitudes.

High mountain oolong tea is typically cultivated at altitudes above 1,000 metres (3,300 feet) above sea level. These elevations create ideal growing conditions that contribute to the tea’s refined aroma, smooth texture, and complex flavour profile.

The origins of Taiwanese high mountain tea can be traced back to the late 18th century, when tea cultivars were brought from mainland China and adapted to Taiwan’s mountainous terrain. Despite this long history, high mountain oolong tea only began gaining widespread recognition and popularity in the 1990s.

Major High Mountain Tea Regions in Taiwan

Some of the most well-known high mountain oolong tea regions in Taiwan include:

• Alishan

• Yushan (Jade Mountain)

• Dayuling

• Lishan

• Wushe

Each region produces tea with distinct flavor and aroma characteristics, influenced by terroir—the combination of environmental factors such as altitude, climate, soil composition, weather patterns, and the craftsmanship of local tea farmers.

Taiwan’s mountains are often shrouded in mist and clouds, creating a cool, humid environment that slows leaf growth and enhances aromatic development. This unique ecosystem plays a crucial role in shaping the elegant and layered flavors of high mountain tea.

Why High Mountain Tea Thrives in Taiwan

Taiwan’s geography makes it uniquely suited for high mountain tea cultivation. As a mountainous island, Taiwan has one of the highest densities of mountain peaks in the world, with elevations reaching over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) and more than 280 mountain summits.

Regions such as Nantou and Chiayi counties benefit from:

• Frequent natural precipitation

• High humidity

• Cool temperatures

• Large day–night temperature differences

These conditions reduce bitterness, increase sweetness, and allow tea plants to develop thicker leaves rich in aromatic compounds.

Cultivation of High Mountain Oolong Tea

High mountain oolong tea plants grow more slowly due to thin air and cooler temperatures at high altitudes. This slow growth is essential to developing the tea’s signature floral fragrance and creamy mouthfeel.

Most high mountain tea is hand-harvested, which significantly limits annual production and increases its value. Harvest seasons are generally divided into two main periods:

• Spring Gaoshan – harvested around mid-June

• Winter Gaoshan – harvested in late October

While a summer harvest does exist, it is typically limited and has lower commercial value due to harsher growing conditions.

Production Process of High Mountain Tea

After hand-picking, processing a single batch of high mountain oolong tea can take up to 40 hours. The process emphasizes craftsmanship over speed.

1. Fresh leaves are spread out to wither naturally, often outdoors when weather permits.

2. During this stage, floral aromas such as jasmine, rose, and geranium begin to develop.

3. The leaves are gently bruised and folded to initiate partial oxidation.

4. They are then transferred to trays and allowed to wither and ferment for approximately eight hours.

5. Once oxidation reaches the desired level, the leaves are heated to halt fermentation and lock in flavor.

High mountain oolong tea is known for retaining its nutrients while avoiding the grassy notes often found in green tea. Farmers focus on quality over quantity, prioritizing flavor clarity, balance, and aroma.

Flavor, Appearance, and Character

High mountain tea is celebrated for its elegant appearance and refined taste. Depending on the region and harvest, the brewed liquor ranges from pale gold to light amber.

Common flavour characteristics include:

• Floral notes

• Creamy, buttery textures

• Soft sweetness

• Clean, lingering finish

Grown in a pristine and elevated environment, high mountain oolong tea represents one of the finest expressions of Taiwanese tea craftsmanship. Its balance, complexity, and smoothness make it a favorite among tea connoisseurs worldwide.