Got this tea from a swap with the generous Matu. I have a little complex with this tea—because it’s a gift I really want to like it. But as it is…the tea’s not great. It’s just very, very watery, with none of that interesting salivation or thickness going on.
Funny to think that I see salivation as a good thing, since before getting into pu’erh the idea would’ve grossed me out. But I dunno, sampling something like the 2013 Hui Run, I’ve come to love that saliva feel. Anyway!
This tea has sort of an anemic color, which along with the bitter note of smoke makes me think it’s less fermented. Probably could use more time either way.
As far as flavor, this tea has some up-front bitterness that’ll probably fade with age. Under that is a little fruitiness, and some sweet notes. My main beef is it’s just so…watery. I might try cold brewing this and seeing where it goes.