Brewed: 1 tbsp of tea brewed loose in 2-cup pot with freshly boiled water.
First cup: Brewed for 5 minutes
The flavour has a bit of a dry quality to it, I think it’s between the coconut flakes and the vanilla… though I think (in mentally comparing it to DAVIDsTEA’s old Irish Cream tea) I can pick out the flavour (or at least the astringency) of the cornflowers.
Second cup: Same steep, approx 25 minutes brewed.
The flavours are stronger, though it doesn’t seem bitter-oversteeped. That being said I added milk to it after a few sips anyway. The addition gave it a rather smooth quality, and definitely brought out the butter part of the “buttered rum”.
Third cup: Resteep (a few hours later), approx 10 minutes brewed
Tastes rather watered down. Drinkable, but not something I’d really go after. So, more of a one-steep wonder. (I may try adding a black teabag to the resteep next time and see if that adds enough body while still letting a hint of flavour come through….)
Fourth cup: Same resteep, longer brewing time
Flavour stronger now (thankfully), but still not quite right with me. Still a little astringent, and coconut seems very predominant.
My overall impression: Not bad. Not great — I prefer teas that can steep better the second time, and while the flavour certainly wasn’t unappealing, it wasn’t something I would go out of my way for either. This isn’t surprising though, I’m generally not one for coconut when given the choice, or alcoholic beverages for that matter (though as with everything, there are exceptions….) I’ve also heard that this goes really well with some sugar. I’ll try that again, and may adjust my ratings/feelings if I find it better that way. But still, not bad overall.
My rating: B- 72%. Certainly passable, but not something I’d go out of my way for. May be far better enjoyed by a more rum-loving audience than I.
