Jin Xuan tea, commonly known as Milk Oolong tea or Taiwanese Oolong tea, is one of the most popular and distinctive oolong teas in the world. Originating from Taiwan, Jin Xuan has gained international recognition for its naturally creamy, buttery flavor, smooth mouthfeel, and elegant aroma.

Unlike flavored teas, high-quality Jin Xuan oolong develops its signature milky character naturally, making it a favorite among both new tea drinkers and seasoned oolong enthusiasts.

Origin of Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong) Tea

Jin Xuan tea was developed in the early 1980s at the Taiwan Tea Experiment Station by renowned tea researcher Wu Zhenduo, often referred to as the father of modern Taiwanese tea cultivation.

The cultivar was officially registered as TTES No. 12 and named “Jin Xuan” (金萱) in honor of Wu Zhenduo’s grandmother. The name translates to “Golden Daylily,” symbolizing elegance and longevity.

This cultivar was specifically bred to:

• Produce higher yields

• Resist common tea plant pests

• Thrive in Taiwan’s mountainous climate

Because of these advantages, Jin Xuan quickly became one of the most widely cultivated oolong tea varieties in Taiwan and later in Thailand.

What Makes Jin Xuan Tea Unique?

Jin Xuan tea leaves are light green, oval-shaped, and thick, contributing to a smooth, creamy liquor once brewed. Compared to many other oolong cultivars, Jin Xuan produces a higher yield while maintaining excellent flavor quality.

Taiwanese Milk Oolong tea contains moderate caffeine levels and is prized for its:

• Naturally creamy and buttery taste

• Soft sweetness

• Clean, refreshing finish

These characteristics result from careful cultivation, altitude, and expert processing, not from the addition of milk or dairy.

Where Milk Oolong Tea Is Grown

Although Jin Xuan tea originated in Taiwan, it is also grown in select regions of Thailand. It should not be confused with Tieguanyin, which originates from Fujian and Anxi in China and has a very different flavor profile.

Key Growing Regions

Taiwan

• Zhushan (approx. 2,000 ft / 600 m)

• Alishan (approx. 4,000 ft / 1,200 m)

Thailand

• Chiang Rai, particularly Doi Mae Salong (approx. 4,600 ft / 1,400 m)

High-altitude cultivation plays a crucial role in developing Jin Xuan’s bold aroma, creamy texture, and layered flavor, thanks to cooler temperatures and slower leaf growth.

Production Process of Milk Oolong Tea

Despite its name, Milk Oolong tea contains no milk. Its creamy flavor is a natural result of cultivar genetics and processing techniques.

Production Steps

1. Hand-plucking of fresh tea leaves

2. Withering to reduce moisture

3. Gentle bruising to initiate oxidation

4. Partial oxidation, turning leaves slightly brown

5. Heat fixation to stop oxidation

6. Rolling and shaping before drying

This careful process enhances the tea’s natural buttery and milky notes, while preserving freshness and sweetness.

Flavor and Aroma Profile

Once brewed, Jin Xuan oolong produces a light yellow to pale golden liquor with a fresh, inviting aroma.

Flavor characteristics include:

• Creamy and buttery notes

• Soft sweetness

• Subtle floral and grassy undertones

Milk Oolong tea is especially known for “Nai Xiang” (奶香)—a natural milk fragrance that is most pronounced during the first three infusions, gradually softening in later brews.

Flavored vs. Natural Milk Oolong

Lower-quality or low-altitude Jin Xuan teas may lack natural creaminess. In such cases, some producers add edible flavoring to enhance the milky taste. While this is not inherently bad, reputable tea sellers clearly label flavored Milk Oolong teas.

A simple way to tell:

• Natural Jin Xuan: subtle aroma when dry

• Flavored Jin Xuan: strong, sweet, milky scent before brewing

How to Brew Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong) Tea

Western-Style Brewing

• Tea: 3–5 g (2–3 tsp)

• Water: 5–10 oz (150–300 ml)

• Temperature: 185–200°F (85–93°C)

• Steep time: 3–5 minutes

Leaves can be re-steeped multiple times.

Gongfu Brewing Method

Using a gaiwan or Yixing teapot:

• Tea: 7 g

• Water temperature: 85–93°C

• First infusion: 25–45 seconds

• Increase by 15 seconds per infusion

This method yields 6–7 infusions, each revealing evolving layers of creaminess and floral sweetness.

Enjoying Milk Oolong Tea

Jin Xuan tea can be enjoyed year-round. In warmer months, it also makes an excellent iced oolong tea, offering a refreshing and naturally sweet summer drink.

Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong) tea represents one of the finest expressions of Taiwanese oolong craftsmanship. Naturally creamy, smooth, and aromatic, it is a tea that bridges accessibility and sophistication—perfect for both everyday enjoyment and mindful tea sessions.