Crab Leg ~ Goldfish

Traditionally called “Hairy Crab” (Mao Xie), this Anxi (Fujian) cultivar Oolong is very odd-looking. Mao Xie’s serrated edges and spiny little hairs gifted it the name hairy crab (though Goldfish has decided to call theirs Crab Leg). Much Greener and less-oxidized than other Chinese Oolongs, Mao Xie is known for its fruity bouquet.  I’ve read that if you enjoy Ti Kuan Yin, this cousin may also be to your liking (but honestly it doesn’t remind me at all of Ti Kuan Yin… >.>).

Full disclosure, I’ve never brewed Mao Xie before today. I can’t drink Oolong anymore, so buying something expensive like Mao Xie isn’t generally where I’d want to sink my money. This time however, I was buying from Goldfish, and I like them and want to keep them in business (and you should too!).

Crab Leg’s liquor does indeed have quite a bit of spiny hair particles clinging to the surface. In terms of Oolongs, the yellow-tined White colored Liquor is definitely a new one on me. In scent, Crab Leg smells like gooey marmalade and Thai tea. The flavor of marmalade and french macaroons entices the taste buds. Crab Leg also has a smooth aftertaste of cut grass. I can definitely feel the spiny hairs building a unique and fun grit. If you find yourself given the chance to try this tea, I’d recommend you totally jump at it.

1. Aroma – 97
2. Taste – 92
3. Texture – 92
4. Spunk – 96
5. Price – 87
6. Availability – 94
7. Appearance – 89

Mean score – 92%