What is Phoenix DanCong Oolong? A Guide to the Legendary Duck Shit Aroma

What is Phoenix DanCong Oolong?

Phoenix DanCong Oolong (凤凰单丛) is one of China's most celebrated teas, grown exclusively in the high-altitude gardens of Wudong Mountain (乌岽山) in Guangdong Province. The name "DanCong" (单丛) literally means "single bush" — each tea is harvested from individual trees, many of which are hundreds of years old, giving each cup a uniquely complex character.

The Famous "Duck Shit Aroma" (鸭屎香)

Among the many DanCong varietals, Ya Shi Xiang (鸭屎香) — translated as "Duck Shit Aroma" — is perhaps the most intriguing. Despite its unusual name, this tea is prized for its extraordinary floral fragrance, reminiscent of orchids and honey, with a clean, lingering finish. The name was reportedly coined by a farmer who wanted to keep his prized tea trees a secret from neighbors.

What Makes Wudong Mountain Tea Special?

Altitude is everything. Wudong Mountain's gardens sit above 1,000 meters, where cool temperatures, misty clouds, and mineral-rich soil create the perfect conditions for slow leaf development. This results in:

• Intense floral aroma — natural orchid, honey, and fruity notes
• Complex layered flavor — sweet, slightly roasted, with a smooth finish
• High-altitude purity — minimal pesticide use, traditional farming methods

How is DanCong Oolong Processed?

DanCong undergoes a meticulous traditional process: hand-picking, solar withering, indoor withering, tossing, oxidation, fixation, rolling, and roasting. The degree of roasting — from light to heavy — dramatically shapes the final flavor profile. Our teas feature a light roast to preserve the delicate floral character of the leaves.

How to Brew Phoenix DanCong

DanCong is best enjoyed using the Gongfu method with a small Yixing clay or porcelain teapot:

• Water temperature: 95–100°C
• Tea amount: 5–7g per 100ml
• First steep: 20–30 seconds, then increase by 10–15 seconds each round
• Steepings: Quality DanCong can yield 8–12 infusions

Each infusion reveals a new layer of aroma and flavor — this is the magic of single-bush tea.

Explore Our DanCong Collection

At Orient Cha, we source directly from Wudong Mountain's high-altitude gardens, working with families who have cultivated these ancient trees for generations. Every batch is carefully selected to bring you the authentic taste of Phoenix DanCong.