The streets of Hanoi are buzzing with a peculiar new beverage—duck-dropping oolong tea. Its bizarre name has left many with mixed emotions, sparking curiosity yet hindering the courage to actually try it. Well, today, Có Như Lời Đồn steps up to the plate and gives this strange concoction a taste test.
Duck-dropping tea has taken social media by storm: Its unconventional moniker leaves many “constipated” while they ponder a sip.
According to Ah Ma Hand made Vietnam, the brand behind this eccentric beverage, duck-dropping tea’s main ingredient is “duck-dropping” Dan Cong, a special type of oolong tea. The unusual name stems from tea farmers in Ping Keng Tou Village (Guangdong, China). The soil there is characterized by its unique brown-yellow hue, which the villagers jokingly attribute to duck droppings. Ironically, these droppings are said to contribute to the distinct flavor of the oolong tea grown in their fields. Hence, the tea from Ping Keng Tou became known as “duck-dropping” tea.
Duck-dropping oolong tea has made waves online
Before reaching Vietnam, duck-dropping oolong tea had already been sold in various parts of China, causing quite a stir on social media due to its peculiar name. But now, Có Như Lời Đồn is here to give Vietnamese tea enthusiasts the inside scoop on this unusual beverage.
What’s Unique About Duck-Dropping Oolong Tea?
Based on Có Như Lời Đồn’s tasting experience, duck-dropping oolong tea has a pleasant aroma but, compared to other oolong teas, it lacks a distinctive flavor. Perhaps only experienced tea connoisseurs would be able to discern its unique characteristics.
Nevertheless, the different variations of duck-dropping oolong tea offered by this brand do provide some interesting twists.
Duck-dropping oolong tea with cream cheese: Mildly sweet and refreshing (additional sugar is recommended), with a subtle tea flavor. The cream cheese, however, falls short of expectations, lacking the rich taste found in other brands due to its blandness.
Duck-dropping oolong tea with cream cheese
Duck-dropping oolong milk tea: Very mildly sweet, allowing the tea and milk flavors to shine. However, it’s worth noting that the standard sweetness level at the store is very low. It’s advisable to add extra sugar to suit your taste.
Duck-dropping oolong milk tea:
Duck-dropping oolong tea with lemon: This tea offers a taste reminiscent of the popular hand-crushed lemon tea trend. However, the combination of lemon essence and duck-dropping oolong tea elevates the flavor, making it more enjoyable. Out of the three duck-dropping oolong tea variations offered, this one is the most值得一试—aromatic, flavorful, and balanced in sweetness.
Duck-dropping oolong tea with lemon
Simple and Understated Ambiance
Currently, Ah Ma Hand made Vietnam, the brand offering duck-dropping oolong tea in Vietnam, has only two locations in Hanoi. The one Có Như Lời Đồn visited, situated in the heart of the city, offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The décor is simple yet comfortable and inviting.
