We usually tend to wait until Mr. Ong releases his Winter Competition Tea in late November to get to drink some Winter Bao Zhong. Not this year, we had a craving to fulfil and we know many of you will not mind as well! This fresh Lot 469 was made in the first week of November with leaves from the highest section of Mr. Ong’s garden. In fact, when we selected this lot, Mr. Ong confided in us that he will most likely present the remainder of what we didn’t purchase to compete at the upcoming competition. So there you have it: a competition tea without having to wait! We are sure that this Lot will meet the criteria to be awarded a high recognition. The aroma of buttered green beans with distinctive floral overtones is definitely there. Nothing aggresses the senses. The liqueur is smooth, refreshing, and very pleasant. The secret drying technique of Mr. Ong that lightly bakes the beautiful twisted leaves and seals the flavours and aroma of this tea and adds a very pleasant almond-like finish and taste. As usual, this is sunshine in a cup that comes at a time when many of us are in need of extra warmth for the soul, mind and body.