Bamatea Oolong Tea (八马茶)

Why it is worth considering

Bamatea (八马茶业) was founded in Shenzhen in 1997, growing out of a tea-making family that traces its craft back to 1736. Today it runs more than 3,700 chain stores across China, with Tieguanyin oolong as its signature and a full range of other tea categories.

For a visitor, the appeal is practical: Bamatea stores are everywhere in Shenzhen, including the major malls, and staff will brew and let you taste several grades side by side before you commit. It is the least risky way to buy decent oolong in a city that is not a traditional tea town.

Before you buy, check

• Ask staff to brew and taste several Tieguanyin grades side by side — the difference between grades is obvious in the cup.
• Check the production date and sealed packaging, especially if you are flying home.
• Confirm the per-unit price at the counter before paying — tea prices vary widely by grade, and we have not verified current shelf prices.

Good to know

• Keep the tea sealed and away from strong smells in your luggage — it absorbs odors easily.
• Jasmine-style scented teas lose their aroma within a year; check the production date and drink it fresh.