The dry scent is creamy and sharp with nutmeg spice, while in the cup, the nutmeg fragrance mellows and sweet cream takes over. Infused 1 teaspoon in 8 ounces of water about 15 seconds off the boil for ~3 min 30 sec, which produced a medium reddish liquor. The taste is smooth and accessible, the nutmeg and cream blending seamlessly and subtly into the tea flavors. Medium body, mildly bright without aggressiveness, and extremely drinkable without milk or sweetener. The subtle nutmeg taste lasts for quite a while after a sip.
I’m simultaneously interested in trying it sweetened and milked, and hesitant to alter its serene simplicity. I’ll probably give in and try it enhanced later … but for now, I have half a cup of untouched goodness that remains to enjoy.
Poetic waxings: I think of a cool, sunny spring morning in a mountain temple, with silence and green slopes and the fullness of the living world all around.
Additional infusions: Tried a second infusion at 4 min. The resulting liquor is a touch lighter in color and the fragrance seems minutely more floral. The taste is definitely lighter, too, and not one I think would stand up well to milk or sweetener, but the liquor is significantly sweeter on this infusion to balance things out. Better on second infusion than some teas are on first infusion, so I’ll take that.
Flavors: Cream, Nutmeg, Spices
