TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A young Miaoli tea maker, Jacky Chang (張家齊), was recently named among the “World’s Top 20” tea brands by TasteAtlas, per CNA.

His brand, Formocha (福爾摩茶), was the only Taiwanese tea brand selected. The recognition caps a remarkable year for Chang, who has also earned top honors at three major international tea competitions.

Miaoli County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin (鍾東錦) met with Chang on Tuesday to commend his innovative approach and contribution to Taiwan’s tea-making tradition. Chung praised Formocha’s sparkling tea for its smoothness and distinctive flavor. “You can tell it’s a fine product right from the start,” he said.

Chung said the county government actively supports young farmers and entrepreneurs in developing local brands. He added that Formocha’s creative techniques have elevated both the quality and international reputation of Taiwanese tea, making it a source of pride for Miaoli and for Taiwan.

Coming from a family specializing in tea-making equipment, Chang carefully monitors every step of production. He records ingredients as well as roasting temperatures and humidity levels to achieve what he describes as “unprecedented depth of flavor.”

The 40-year-old has achieved what some call a “Grand Slam” of global tea awards, including the Great Taste Awards in the UK, the World Green Tea Contest in Japan, and the AVPA Teas of the World Competition in France. His tea is also served in EVA Air’s business class cabins.

TasteAtlas, a global food and flavor encyclopedia with more than one million followers, selected Formocha as one of its “Top 20” tea brands for 2025, based on performance in global competitions, expert reviews, and consumer feedback. Only two Japanese tea companies were included on the list.

Chang said he was stunned when he received the news. “I was truly surprised and delighted,” he said.