Teaoria generously included this sample in my order!
I thought this was hojicha, but it’s actually medium-dark green tea leaves as opposed to the brown stems of hojicha. Neat!
The taste is very roasty and toasty with hints of sweetness at the end of the sip. There is a subtle flavour of raw hazelnut. I easily get three steeps from this tea. I haven’t yet tried for more steeps, but perhaps it’s possible.
1st steep 2 minutes 30 seconds
2nd steep 4 minutes
3rd steep 5 minutes 30 seconds
I am happy for you that you didn’t find it smoky as you were afraid of it.
I remember trying it on their stand.