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Method: Improvised Gaiwan (I say this because I broke my fav gaiwan so I am waiting on a new one from China, obviously long wait, so I am using my great grandmother’s houhin! Not really different but not a gaiwan!

8 grams

2 rinses

First Several Steepings: Began with 15 sec infusions and the aroma is thick and earthy, but not overwhelmingly. Relaxing, like wet forest floor after crisp dew is first cast by day’s new morning. The flavor reminded me of my visit to Yosemite National Park a few years ago during the months of drizzle and gentle touches of summer but before the full broil of mid summer. Relaxing, invigorating but inspiring. Earthy, bit of soil and a hint of mushroom with a finishing raisin note. Pleasant and simply pure. Really enjoying this pu erh and excited for later infusions.

Middle and Final Steepings: I lost count by this point. The liquor is still dark but slightly beginning to lighten, the aroma gentled but the flavor is still bold. Still earthy but sweetening. Feeling more energized but not wired, calmed and content. Just enjoying the moment and brew. After a few more infusions my fresh order of Tupelo honey caught my attention just glistening its flowing, amber, precious liquid incased in clear glass allowing the sun light to beam through just beckoning me to experiment. I am a mischievous and curious soul, as I am told; I stared at my dark brew clasped in my hand the white porcelain enhancing the color of this precious pu erh, a moment of inspiration touched my awakened mind. Why not? I said to myself as I tenderly poured but a small gesture of Tupelo into my cup then the pu erh. I never done this before with pu erh but I was so curious! The moment it tickled my lips, caressed my tongue I felt so happy! The flavor transformed into a completely different tea, so many more hidden notes felt enhanced and a slight touch of the honey flavor, wow, all I can say is wow! Dessert in my hands and now slipping down my tongue!! Oh wow! This is why I love pu erh! Thousands of teas in one changed in a moment! I am pumped! Loving every moment! Infusions from now have Tupelo and some I do not bother adding, just enjoying tea. Day is becoming vesper, almost foreshadowing the last remains of my fun brew. The flavor fading, more flower notes, liquor cleansing itself of the sunny day I finish off this pu erh almost sadly, but tomorrow always will dawn again the freshly born rays glistening my tiny pu erh blade for another battle on a long war I personally wage!

Thank you so much Garret for this magnificent brew!! Will be ordering more!