Tea Information:
Leaf Type: Oolong
Where to Buy: Drink T
Product Description:
Gaba tea is a relatively new type of tea with special health benefits. It was first discovered in 1987 by Japanese researchers looking for a way to preserve food. They discovered a process that produced high levels of gamman-amino butyric acid (GABA), an amino acid which occurs naturally in the human body. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter found in the nervous system and also in the retina, which helps prevent the over-firing of neurons. Meaning, GABA can help reduce stress and anxiety. Today, Gaba tea is very popular in Japan and is prized for it many health benefits as well as providing a calming effect when consumed.
Our Gaba tea is grown and produced in Taiwan according to strict standards set by the Japanese government, and meets or exceeds the Japanese standard of 150 mg of GABA per 100 grams of tea.
Gaba tea brews to a dark brown color with a pleasing, light taste of cinnamon. It can be served either hot or iced. To enhance the subtle flavor, try it hot with a cinnamon stick.
Taster’s Review:
I admit that I’ve not had a lot of experience with Gaba Oolong tea. But, since I love Oolong, I was certain I’d also love this. Of course, I love this!
That being said, it tastes a bit different from a typical “green” Oolong, and different from a more oxidized Oolong (what I often refer to as a “darker” Oolong). But if I were to compare it to the two, I’d say this one tastes more like a darker Oolong. It has a roasted, nutty flavor with hints of fuzzy peach taste, as well as a subtle spiced undertone.
It’s that subtle spicy taste – not exactly spicy as in spicy-hot, but more like a sweet cinnamon taste – that is the most surprising flavor profile of this cup. It is a mellow taste, but it adds such a delightful layer of flavor to this tea.
I really enjoyed this tea – and as I sipped it, I could feel my muscles start to relax, as if the stress were somehow evaporating from my body. A refreshing, calming tea that is also delicious!
