Oolong丨Duck Shit

“Duck Shit” tea, or Ya Shi Xiang (鸭屎香), is a well-known variety of Phoenix Dancong oolong tea from Guangdong province. Despite its rather crude name, it is highly prized for its intense aroma and refined flavour. 
“Duck Shit” tea has become famous both for its memorable name and its exceptional fragrance, making it one of the most talked-about and enjoyable Chinese oolong teas.
 
🌱 Why the unusual name?
There are a couple of popular stories:
One is that farmers gave it its unappealing name to discourage others from trying to steal it
Another theory links the name to the yellowish soil (鸭屎土 “duck dung soil”) in which the tea bushes grew
 In reality, thankfully, the tea has nothing to do with actual duck waste! 😄
🌱 Flavour profile
Highly aromatic: Often floral (orchid, gardenia) and fruity
Sweet and smooth: With a lingering aftertaste
Complex layers: Can include honey, spice, or creamy notes
🌱 What makes it special?
Part of the Dancong (“single bush”) tradition, meaning each batch can express unique characteristics
Grown in the Phoenix Mountains (凤凰山 Fenghuang Shan)
Carefully processed to highlight its natural fragrance
🌱 How is it prepared?
Best brewed with hot water 
Ideal for gongfu-style brewing with multiple short infusions
Aroma evolves beautifully across several steepings
 
Recommended water temperature 90-95°C