How do you brew Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy)?

Brew Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) at 195°F (90°C). For gongfu style, steep 30-60 seconds; Western style, 3-4 minutes. Use Gaiwan or small porcelain teapot with 5g per 100ml (gongfu). Expect 5-8 infusions.

Where is Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) from?

Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) is produced in Anxi County, Fujian. Spring (May) and autumn (October). Autumn harvest has a richer aroma; spring is more delicate.

How much does Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) cost?

Entry-level Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) costs $8-15 / 100g (modern green-style). Premium grades run $30-80+ / 100g (traditional roast, high mountain, competition grade).

How do you brew Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy)?

Brew Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) at 195°F (90°C). For gongfu style, steep 30-60 seconds; Western style, 3-4 minutes. Use Gaiwan or small porcelain teapot with 5g per 100ml (gongfu). Expect 5-8 infusions.

Where is Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) from?

Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) is produced in Anxi County, Fujian. Spring (May) and autumn (October). Autumn harvest has a richer aroma; spring is more delicate.

How much does Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) cost?

Entry-level Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) costs $8-15 / 100g (modern green-style). Premium grades run $30-80+ / 100g (traditional roast, high mountain, competition grade).

Oolong Tea ← All famous teas

Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) 铁观音

Floral, orchid, creamy, lingering sweetness

Anxi County, FujianCaffeine: LowBeginner: ★★★★☆

Water Temp

195°F (90°C)

Infusions

5-8

Harvest

Spring (May) and autumn (October). Autumn harvest has a richer aroma; spring is more delicate.

Entry Price

$8-15 / 100g (modern green-style)

Flavor Profile

Taste & Aroma

AromaCaptivating orchid, lilac, light cream

TasteSmooth and creamy entry, blooming floral mid-palate, long sweet finish (hui gan)

ColorBright golden-green, clear

BodyMedium, creamy, coating

Brewing Guide

How to Brew It

Water

195°F (90°C)

Vessel

Gaiwan or small porcelain teapot

Gongfu Time

30-60 seconds

Western Time

3-4 minutes

Ratio

5g per 100ml (gongfu)

Infusions

5-8

Read the general brewing guide →

Buying Guide

How to Buy Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) Without Getting Scammed

The Chinese tea market is vast and unregulated. Here's exactly what to look for — and what to run from.

Entry Level

$8-15 / 100g (modern green-style)

Premium / Collector

$30-80+ / 100g (traditional roast, high mountain, competition grade)

Quality Check

Tightly rolled dark green balls that unfurl dramatically when brewed. Dry aroma should be intensely floral. Modern style is greener and more floral; traditional style has a light charcoal roast.

Common Scams

Low-altitude TGY from non-Anxi regions. Overly green versions with a seaweed note are poorly made. Pure Tie Guan Yin cultivar vs. blended Guan Yin style.

Search keywords that find the real thing

Tie Guan YinIron Goddess of MercyAnxi oolongTGY teaChinese oolong tea

For the general principles behind every one of these checks — harvest dates, origin specificity, red flags — read our complete buying guide.

History

Where It Comes From

Named after the Buddhist deity Guanyin. Legend says a poor farmer named Wei Yin discovered the tea bush beneath a Guanyin temple and was rewarded for his devotion. The most famous Chinese oolong, with a distinctive ball-rolled shape and intoxicating orchid fragrance.