12 Tasting Notes
Another great sample from Garret!
Definitely get vanilla throughout all the steepings that gets creamier the longer you steep.
For some reason I couldn’t get the flavor strength to my liking, despite some extended steep times(4 and 6 minutes after the initial 45sec.)
I still have 4g left, going to experiment with the last bit with even longer steep times and will update afterwards.
Flavors: Cream, Leather, Vanilla
Preparation
My first review on Steepster :)
Who knew dirt could taste so good? The earthiness of this Pu-erh is unlike any I have ever had, in the best possible way. I am typically turned off by earthy or grassy teas, but this one completely changed my mind on the former. Garret at Mandala Tea included this sample with my first order from them and I am very grateful. Will definitely pick up a cake of this after I finish the others I purchased from Mandala.
1st Steep(45 sec): I tend to start pretty short on steep times so I can be sure it doesn’t come out too astringent. My first thought was mushrooms covered in dirt, and I realize that may not sound tasty but it was exceptional.
2nd Steep(1min30sec): This one came out a bit more rich but just as smooth as the first. Started to catch some hints of toasted caramel on the finish.
3rd Steep(3min): Richness started to fade but the sweetness started to come through even more. This is where I started to taste something more akin to leather than earth.
Flavors: Caramel, Earth, Leather, Mushrooms
I can see the vanilla note now that you mention it. I accidentally left my Puer to steep way longer than I wanted and it still didn’t have a really strong flavor. I think with ripe Puer you’d do better to use more leaf than to steep it longer. It’s really hard to brew it stronger based on time, but I guess if all you have is a sample that makes it difficult. Maybe use less water?