1015 Tasting Notes
I’m back!!! I’ve been lurking for awhile, but it is finally getting to be tea weather again down here in Texas. I went home early from work today almost doubled over in pain because of some stomach bug I probably caught from my students. If I hadn’t made up this tea earlier I’d probably still be in pain and having to call in to work tomorrow – but pu-erh to the rescue! I seem to be getting everything the kids have this year which is strange because after teaching for a few years your immune system is usually pretty strong. It was strong last year at least. So glad I got a flu shot because otherwise I’d probably get the flu also.
Anyways, on to the tea. After a thorough 30 sec rinse in boiling water, I steeped it for 3 min 30 sec. I added a little sugar (just a tad) and this lovely, earthy tea was ready. I don’t crave pu-erh super often, but I’m always asking myself why I haven’t had it in so long once I get around to making it. Unfortunately, I only have one cute little bird’s nest left so I’ll probably be saving it for another bad tummy day. This stuff is a miracle when it comes to that.
Preparation
I think I got this out of the TTB ages ago. I wasn’t expecting much based on the lack of aroma, but this is pretty good. The vanilla is most prominent with a slight tart kick at the end from the grapefruit. I’m also glad to see that the white tea isn’t lost under the flavoring.
My precious- while this tea may not be that perfect for summer in Texas, it sure is great in the AC watching a Star Trek marathon. That reminds me, I need to start my Fall/Winter tea shopping list…
But this tea- very smoky and full-bodied with a nice sweetness lingering in the background. If you like smoky tea, you need to get your hands on this.
I don’t think I’ve ever had eucalyptus in a tea, but I really like it. This is a very relaxing tea despite containing yerba mate. It is making a nice addition to reading also. I’m trying to finish up Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister- its good, but honestly Wicked was way better.
Yeah, I’m drinking bagged, grocery store tea AND I’m having a black tea at 10:30 at night AND I’ve been talking to my cats way more than can possibly be normal- is it sad that this is my idea of a wild night?!?
Anyway, I love this malty, strong tea- and I think I’ve had too much caffeine today.
I’m back! I’ve been drinking tea in my absence, but not as much as usual. I pulled this out of the cupboard tonight, gave it a good rinse, and steeped for about 1.5 minutes. Overall, its pretty good. Nice and earthy, but not too earthy. There is a hint of sweetness as the cup cools slightly. I like it, but it isn’t knocking my socks off tonight.
Well, I must say I have been quite impressed with the selections from Whispering Pines Tea Company! Everything I’ve had so far has been quite enjoyable. This tea is no exception. It is delightfully minty (but luckily a non-toothpaste mint) with just a hint of jasmine. I’m not noticing the green tea base much but it adds a bit of heft that this blend wouldn’t have if it was an herbal. This is a great way to end my day and prepare for another work week.
Preparation
This was one of the mystery selections from the recent Whispering Pines Tea promotion. I can’t locate it on their website, but hopefully it will show up soon. This is a really good oolong. There isn’t much of an aroma dry, but as soon as the water hits the oolong pellets there is a wonderful floral aroma. After brewing it up, the liquid is a medium green-gold. This is a very flavorful, floral (I want to say orchid or magnolia)oolong but at the same time it feels light. There is no cloying aftertaste like I’ve experienced with some floral teas. The tea has a very clean feel to it and is easily drinkable.
