Thank you TeaEqualsBliss for sending me some of this tea.
This is one of the most unusual silver needle teas that I’ve seen. When I think Silver Needles, I think of a bunch of silvery green needle-like buds, but, there are open leaves in there too, dark in color, reminding me of bai mu dan. It is almost like a blend of bai mu dan and silver needle, and maybe even some shou mei too.
The flavor is also quite different from other silver needle I’ve tasted. While most silver needle tends to be on the delicate side, this tea is definitely more forward in its flavor. It has notes of vegetation, as well as fruit and flower, and a nutty undertone. I even taste a hint of malt to this, kind of like infused hops. A very unique Silver Needle, indeed, but I’m enjoying it.
It’s good when it’s hot, but I think I like it even better when after it’s cooled.