2 Tasting Notes
1st steep releases the bomb of mint, very loud and up-front. Which is great for a peppermint fan; just be prepared for it.
2nd lets the full orchestra come into play. The pu-erh earthiness builds and forms a backbone while the vanilla, cinnamon and licorice do their jobs as balancing condiment spices. To note, I think some are perhaps mislead into thinking that because a flavor is listed in the name of a tea that it should be singled out as a major taste in the profile—I feel that the vanilla is a minor note that is perfectly represented in balancing the earthy with the tart in this blend. The proportions couldn’t be better.
3rd & 4th steeps let the mint recede and the full character and balance shine through. An interesting take on pu-erh and herbals, and though I found it quite unique and well-made, I’m not sure it would enter my regular rotation.
Well-paired with a VaPerO or Va/Oriental blend such as GL Pease Cairo or Peterson Irish Oak, to counterpoint the earthy spice and upfront pepper & sweetness.
Preparation
Light sunshine-golden color on 3-to-5-minutes steep, deepening to clear honey after 8. Yes, heresy; I like them well-steeped.
1st steep is light and mild, yet very full-flavored for all its subtlety. Absent of the palate-wrinkling acidity of most Darjeelings. Light notes of fruit and honey up front in the aroma, backed by a smooth and delicate sweetness of fresh-mown hay, heather, wildflowers and yes, caramel, honey and muscatel on the tongue. Remarkably light in the finish and body—and the purity is tangible, speaking well of the care taken in this organic offering. Patience and attentiveness are rewarded with this one for sure.
Well-paired with a light aromatic tobacco such as Peterson’s Sweet Killarney or Sterling’s Sweet Briar.
