Ok, I feel this tea has the same review and attributes as the Silver Needle except for a few minor tweaks. The only difference is in lieu of the crispiness and apple undertones, it is replaced with a creaminess. All White Peony teas remind me of a Chardonnay wine; the creaminess, the light buttery texture [or in tea’s case, mouth feel]. You can only really detect a minor mouth feel with Adagio’s White Peony, not like Steven Smith Teamaker’s which is a little more pronounced.
The aroma is very similar, but with more of a butter-cream mixed in with the fruit…it is a gauzy, transparent creaminess. I realize this description may sound like an oxymoron, but it fits.
The longer this tea steeps, it just slightly improves; it does not get strong or bitter at all.
The aftertaste is where the butter and cream show up for the party, but stays in the background. There is a slight linger on the tongue but dissipates quickly like a light breeze.
In conclusion, I do like and enjoy this tea, but there are better iterations out on the market, one in particular, Steven Smith Teamaker…his tea is absolutely delicious and sublime leaving you with wanting more. I would concur with other tea enthusiasts out there, Adagio Teas is a good starter for beginners wanting to steep themselves in the enjoyment and world of tea.
Update: My initial taste and review stands [1st infusion only], however, as with the Silver Needle, I used a smaller cup with less water and the flavor intensified. With this varietal, you can tell the difference between 1st and 2nd flush; because White Peony is considered the 2nd flush where as Silver Needle is the 1st flush and only the buds, therefore, this has a hint more “green” taste to it, since it is mixed in with the two top leaves along with the buds it possess the “green tea” characteristics. It is still delicious and delightful. I highly recommend this tea and brand.
