And now we’re back to Darjeeling for a little while. I polished off the last of this prior to going to work this morning, so I have been getting a feel for this tea for the last 3-4 days. I have to say I really like it.
Prior to infusion the leaves show a dark green with delicate aromas of grain, must, and Muscat grapes. After infusion, the resulting liquor is a dark golden amber. Aromas of Muscat grapes, toast, grain, straw, honey, malt, caramel, and must are evident on the nose. In the mouth, notes of caramel, toast, malt, and honey quickly give way to notes of grain, must, and straw. Pronounced Muscat grape notes pick up just before a balanced, layered finish of straw, honey, toast, malt, and grape. Bitterness and astringency are mild to moderate.
I really like this Darjeeling. It is a little rough around the edges, but it displays quite a bit of depth while remaining approachable. Compared to the Dooteriah Estate Darjeeling offered by Simpson & Vail, this tea is not as smooth, but is more complex and displays greater character overall. I could get used to having this around the house.
Flavors: Caramel, Grain, Honey, Malt, Muscatel, Musty, Straw, Toast
