About Red Panda Oolong
Hidden among the misty forests of Mai Pokhari Tea Estate in eastern Nepal, where endangered red pandas still roam the surrounding wilderness, Red Panda Oolong represents one of the country's most celebrated artisan teas. Crafted by tea maker Man Kumar Mukhiya, this remarkable oolong is the result of decades of dedication and an unwavering pursuit of perfection.
Inspired by the legendary oolongs of Taiwan and China, Man Kumar spent more than 14 years adapting traditional oolong craftsmanship to Nepal's unique Himalayan terroir. His work helped establish an entirely new style of tea in Nepal, making him one of the country's pioneering oolong producers. Even today, during harvest season, he often spends 16 to 18 hours a day carefully guiding each batch through every stage of production.
Every leaf is hand-plucked and transformed through a meticulous two-day process of withering, controlled fermentation, oxidation, fixing, rolling, and slow drying. Unlike our GABA Oolong, Red Panda Oolong undergoes a shorter oxidation, allowing the tea's naturally sweet, citrus-forward character and delicate floral notes to shine while preserving its smooth, creamy finish. The result is a tea with exceptional balance, remarkable complexity, and a lingering sweetness that continues to evolve with each sip.
Like the finest wines, Red Panda Oolong is a true reflection of place. The cool mountain climate, high elevation, pristine forests, and mineral-rich soils surrounding Mai Pokhari all contribute to a cup that is vibrant, elegant, and unmistakably Himalayan. It is no surprise that Red Panda Oolong remains one of Man Kumar's most celebrated and sought-after creations.
Whether you're exploring Nepalese tea for the first time or are already a lover of fine oolongs, Red Panda Oolong offers an unforgettable expression of craftsmanship, terroir, and one pioneer's vision for what Himalayan tea could become.