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Dry leaf aroma: Cocoa and malt, with subtle dark fruit notes.
Dry leaf appearance: http://instagram.com/p/skt-BhlcEs/

Wet leaf aroma: Slightly smoky.
Wet leaf appearance: http://instagram.com/p/skyyn2FcLx/

Preparation: Brewed western style in a ceramic infuser mug.

First steeping: 5 minutes at 210 degrees. Such a delightful mixtures of aromas – cocoa, malt, dark fruit, and a subtle smoky undertone. At first the smokiness scared me after my previous smoky Keemun experience, but this is a sweeter, more subtle smokiness, not a raw in-your-face smoky. The taste is just as complex as the aroma with notes of cocoa, malt, smokiness, prunes, and something I can only identify as a biting spiciness (pepper?). The aftertaste is slightly bitter with a lingering tartness. After the cup has cooled I notice a breadiness to the flavor and the smokiness is weaker.

It is somewhat odd to me that this tea hasn’t been reviewed in 3 years. C’est la vie! I did a second stepping but was so stuffed up after my husband mowed the lawn that I don’t trust my nose or taste buds to accurately post notes about it. It was good though! I keep calling this tea sultry, it seems to fit.

I am still amazed at how much the same general style of tea can vary. I think this is part of my attraction and I certainly enjoy the discovery of each variation!