There are many different styles of Tie Guan Yin oolong tea, which all come from various parts of Anxi in Fujian province.
Here we look to explain some differences between the traditional Tie Guan Yin teas, which are more oxidised, and the modern Tie Guan Yin teas, which are lighter.
Jade Tie Guan Yin is a name given to the more modern style of Qing Xiang Tie Guan Yin. "Qing Xiang" means light and fragrant. Within this category there are grades with prices to match. The top grades are called Guan Yin Wang or King of Tie Guan Yin / Tie Guan Yin Emperor.
Qing Xiang (Jade) Tie Guan Yin is very light and floral. Floral tastes include orchid notes and hints of fruit. These teas also have a delightful aroma.
Zhong Huo Tie Guan Yin is a traditional style of Tie Guan Yin. These teas are oxidised for longer, so are darker in colour and fuller in taste. These teas are ideally suited to ageing and, when stored correctly, can be kept for decades. However, they are also great for drinking in the year of harvest.
The primary difference between Zhong Huo Tie Guan Yin and Qing Xiang (Jade) Tie Guan Yin is the baking time; much longer for the former than for the latter.