I think this is one of the more interesting teas in the “Les Calligraphies du thé” collection, and also one that is very easy to miss. This is because anise seeds give it a very strong fragrance that completely overpowers everything else, so there’s almost nothing to be gained from smelling the dry leaves. You have to steep it like a well oxidized oolong, in nearly boiling water, and then the real flavor comes out – a complex green tea somewhat reminiscent of classic Chinese green teas. Very difficult to describe, but perhaps like Pi Lo Chun without the smokiness. Anise plays a crucial part, bonding extremely well with the bouquet and not overshadowing any of the other flavors. Interestingly, this tea seems best when drunk quite hot, unlike most green teas.