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.
205 °F / 96 °C
