It took several sips to get used to how strong this is. I’d like to try steeping it for 3m instead of 4 next time. There is first a strong bright citrus bite that lingers through the whole sip. At the end the smoke that had been laying low comes out in the finish. Adding cream mutes the citrus and it’s strength. It blends the citrus with the smoke throughout the sip and finish. I like this tea, but I’m not sure if I prefer it straight or with cream. It is similar to another Russian type tea that I like and I think I prefer the other, but I’m sure I’ll enjoy this bag too.
205 °F / 96 °C
4 min, 0 sec