I have now moved from Canada back to Europe and this is my first gong fu session. Since a lot of stuff is still packed, I brought out these convenient tuos to brew in my new silver teapot. I am amazed by the progression of this tea and am happy that I still have a couple of these left although they are now sold out (there is a 2019 version available).
Even though just 5 years old, this tea is now definitely well within the semi-aged sheng category. It brews dark orange and has a LOT of fast, woody sweetness that I don’t remember from before. Still, the profile is balanced even while being so pungent. The astringency is dialed down but very much present. There is also a nice bitterness of quinine & citrus zest as well as a fruity tartness. Further savoury notes include bread crust and burnt food. At the same time, the tea has retained some of its florals, which remind me of orange blossoms at the moment. Later steeps also have a strong nutty component with rapeseed florals.
Flavors: Biting, Bitter, Bread, Burnt Food, Citrus Zest, Floral, Fruity, Hay, Orange Blossom, Pleasantly Sour, Sweet, Tart, Wood
Preparation
Comments
Back in Europe, congrats. Bummer I couldn’t make my way to Toronto as hoped for. Perhaps a trip to Europe now that both you and Martin are there.
Thanks! Yes, I wish we could have met while we were on the same side of the Ocean, derk. Please do let me know if you ever find yourself coming over to Europe!
Welcome back in Europe!
Now I have partner in crime nearby :)
This tea sounds as usual very nice.
Congrats on your move!
Back in Europe, congrats. Bummer I couldn’t make my way to Toronto as hoped for. Perhaps a trip to Europe now that both you and Martin are there.
Thanks! Yes, I wish we could have met while we were on the same side of the Ocean, derk. Please do let me know if you ever find yourself coming over to Europe!
You are always welcomed here on Old Continent :)