Lao Guan Yin

Laoguanyin translates as "old Tieguanyin" and in this case it means that the Teaguanyin has been produced as it was in the old times, before the leaves were shaped into lumps. This tea was produced at Mount Bijiashan, in the south west of the City Anxi.

This tea has been produced traditionally, and contrary to modern Tieguanyin it has been wilted for a longer period, oxidised at room temperature, and the red rims of the leaves that result from the oxidation have not been removed. Then the tea was formed in a slightly twisted leaf and medium roasted - the appearance reminds of Wuyi Rock Tea, which is why it is also called Guan Yin Pao in reference to Dahongpao.

The varietal Tieguanyin is named after Guanyin (in India: Avalokiteshvara), hence in the west this tea is sometimes also called "Iron Buddha of compassion", as the name would translate.