I seem to be developing quite a penchant for white tea. Its flavors are subtle and delicate, but can be exquisite, now that I’ve begun to distinguish them. Many white teas have a good resteep in them, IF the first pass is appropriately short (a long 1st steep will get bitter, anyway). For this first steep, I moistened the bag and its contents with a splash of cool water and let it sit a minute before pouring in the hot. This seems to protect delicate teas from getting bitter and astringent. (I credit the Guarani people of Uruguay for this idea, which they traditionally use for their yerba mate.)
Stash Fusion Honey and Ginseng is a brilliant white tea blend with a complex aroma and ample sweetness, just as-is. The light amber liquid is nutritious and delicious — it must be said. The honeybush flavor is akin to rooibos but less tart. For once, the ginseng comes along without creating a fuss. As a bonus, this plucky little bag took a 7 min resteep and produced a righteous 2nd cup!
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Note: I’m open to offers to swap tea samples. If you can’t message me, just comment on one of my tea notes, and I’ll respond.
I am fascinated and deeply impressed by the artistry and skill which coaxes such an array of qualities from one species of leaf. In 2009, I founded San Antonio Tea & Herb Enthusiasts. In 2014, a move to Southern California creates both upheaval and new horizons. The best part is that now I live quite close to my son and his family.
For intimate tastings with a small gathering, I’m practicing Asian-style tea service along the lines of Chinese gongfu cha. It is a joy to share good tea!
The most recent sign of my conversion to the deeply-steeped side: I’ve turned three large file boxes into “tea humidors” for aging pu-erh cakes and bricks at 65% humidity. Remote sensors within the “pumidors” relay the temperature and humidity readings to a base station on my desk. It satisfies my scientist aspect and keeps tea pretty well, too.
Location
Southern California, USA
