Thanks to Nature’s Tea Leaf for a generous sample.
I’m not that experienced with black teas beyond the basic Assam and Darjeeling, but I was excited to try this and expand my horizons. I didn’t steep this for too long for fear the bitterness would ruin my enjoyment. There is also a smokey undertone, but it’s definitely different than a Lapsang, where it’s not overwhelming.
This tea has some complexity to it. As others have mentioned, I am getting the cocoa and malty notes. It’s definitely a hearty and enjoyable tea on it’s ownn
Because it’s so strong and hearty, I decided to throw some soy milk in there to see how the taste changes. The milk definitely smooths out the harsher tones and it becomes more of a silky treat. It almost now tastes like a mild coffee to me.
Both ways are enjoyable in their own way. I look forward to exploring teas like this more.
Sounds like a good tea.
Was is reminiscent of the bold Assams in any way?
I love this kind of tea in the morning with cream and sweet. So, so good!