I compared this to BTTC’s “Old Style” Dong Ding (i.e. green Dong Ding), just to see what’s up.
The roasted version is pretty good. I have to say that I don’t find it particularly active or dynamic in the mouth. The arrival and development are pretty much roasted peanut and some dry minerality. A little flat for my palate, really.
The finish and aftertaste become more dynamic. Sweetness and fruit flavors arrive and stick around for a while.
I’m no Dong Ding expert (any Dong Ding experts out there – feel free to chime in), but I did have a similar taste experience with another Dong Ding from a different company. A little flat in-mouth, a much better finish and aftertaste.
I can see the appeal of Dong Ding, as it is definitely an approachable easy drinker. If you are searching for a wallop of flavor, though, I don’t think this is your guy.
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Dry leaf – roast peanut, dried parsley/dill. In preheated vessel – roast peanut gets stronger, notes of cherry-infused dark chocolate
Smell – roast peanut, black tea blend, some slight phenolic and medicinal notes, but pleasant
Taste – Arrival/development: roast peanut, black tea blend, slight minerality. Finish/aftertaste: hints of cherry chocolate and Mexican hot chocolate (cinnamon); sweet citrus, lemongrass, some pleasant sour candy flavors.
