Exploring the Tea Cultivars Created by Taiwan’s Tea Research and Experimentation Station (TRES)
Taiwan is world-famous for its exceptional teas, and much of this acclaim is thanks to the Taiwan Tea Research and Experimentation Station (TRES). Over decades of research, TRES has developed a range of tea cultivars tailored to Taiwan’s unique environment. These cultivars are celebrated for their flavor profiles, resilience, and ability to thrive in Taiwan’s high-mountain regions.
In this article, we’ll explore the most iconic TRES cultivars, their unique characteristics, and why they’re beloved by tea enthusiasts worldwide.
What is a Tea Cultivar?
A tea cultivar refers to a specific variety of the tea plant, developed for unique characteristics like flavor, aroma, resilience to pests, and adaptability to specific climates. The tea cultivars created by TRES are highly regarded for their balance of innovation and tradition, combining scientific expertise with Taiwan’s rich tea heritage.
The Most Famous TRES Cultivars
Here are some of the standout tea cultivars developed by TRES, each with its own story and flavor profile:
1. TTES No. 12 – Jin Xuan (金萱)
- Nicknamed: Milk Oolong
- Flavor Profile: Creamy, buttery, and smooth with floral undertones.
- Development: Released in 1981, Jin Xuan is one of TRES’s most famous creations. Its unique creamy flavor has made it a favorite among oolong tea drinkers worldwide.
- Best Grown In: High-mountain regions like Alishan and Lishan, where cooler temperatures enhance its buttery notes.
2. TTES No. 18 – Ruby Red (红玉)
- Nicknamed: Ruby Black Tea
- Flavor Profile: Bold and sweet with notes of cinnamon, mint, and honey.
- Development: Released in 1999, this cultivar is a hybrid of native Taiwanese tea plants and a Burmese Assam variety. Its distinct flavor profile has made it a standout in the world of black tea.
- Best Grown In: Sun Moon Lake, where the humid climate and high altitude create the perfect conditions for its robust flavors.
3. TTES No. 13 – Tsui Yu (翠玉)
- Nicknamed: Jade Oolong
- Flavor Profile: Fresh and floral, with a clean, slightly sweet finish.
- Development: Released alongside Jin Xuan in 1981, Tsui Yu is prized for its elegant and refreshing flavor.
- Best Grown In: Mid-elevation tea farms like those in Nantou County.
4. TTES No. 8 – Assam Hybrid (阿薩姆)
- Flavor Profile: Rich and malty with hints of fruit and spice.
- Development: Aimed at producing a Taiwanese version of Assam tea, this cultivar is ideal for creating bold, full-bodied black teas.
- Best Grown In: Puli Township and other low-altitude regions.
5. TTES No. 21 – Hong Yun (红韵)
- Nicknamed: Red Rhythm
- Flavor Profile: Fruity and mellow with a subtle sweetness and smooth texture.
- Development: Released in 2008, Hong Yun is a hybrid of Indian tea plants and native Taiwanese cultivars, designed to thrive in tropical climates.
- Best Grown In: Low to mid-altitude regions.
Why Are TRES Cultivars So Special?
Tailored for Taiwan’s Climate
Taiwan’s unique climate, with its cool high-altitude regions and humid subtropical lowlands, requires tea plants that can adapt to specific conditions. TRES cultivars are developed with these challenges in mind.
Flavor Innovation
Each TRES cultivar is bred to offer a distinct flavor profile, whether it’s the creamy notes of Jin Xuan or the bold complexity of Ruby Red.
Sustainability
Many TRES cultivars are designed to be more resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions and supporting sustainable farming practices.
How TRES Cultivars Are Revolutionizing the Tea Industry
The work of TRES has elevated Taiwanese tea to global prominence. By focusing on:
- Scientific research to improve plant health and resilience.
- Flavor profiling to meet global consumer tastes.
- Education and training to help farmers adapt to new cultivars, TRES cultivars have become staples in high-end tea markets worldwide.
How to Enjoy TRES Cultivars
- Jin Xuan (Milk Oolong): Perfect for tea lovers seeking a creamy, rich oolong. Brew it lightly to let the buttery notes shine.
- Ruby Red (TTES No. 18): Best enjoyed as a full-bodied black tea, either plain or with a touch of honey.
- Jade Oolong (TTES No. 13): Ideal for a refreshing and floral tea experience.
Where to Find TRES Cultivars
TRES cultivars are widely available in specialty tea shops and online retailers. Look for high-mountain teas from regions like:
- Alishan
- Lishan
- Sun Moon Lake
- Nantou County
Conclusion
The tea cultivars developed by the Taiwan Tea Research and Experimentation Station are more than just plants—they represent the artistry, innovation, and dedication of Taiwan’s tea industry. Whether you’re enjoying the buttery smoothness of Jin Xuan or the bold spice of Ruby Red, each cup is a testament to TRES’s legacy.
Would you like to dive deeper into specific cultivars or their brewing methods? Let us know in the comments!
