This is the last one of the TTB, and I was saving the best for last. This tea is fantastic! These leaves inside the package do not seem to decadent, but once I brought them out and gave them time to breathe, they’re one of beauty. The dry leaves are made up of little twisted knots ranging from a dark reddish brown to a brilliant gold. They carry an almost non-existent scent of smoke and cacao. I placed this gorgeous twigs in my gaiwan and brewed eastern (finally). I washed the leaves to bring out the aroma. This brew begins with a roasted red potato scent. This hearty essence filled my tea room. The scent then begins to sweeten and become more of a light rum. The taste is delicious. It begins bold and malty with a dark cacao rush. I steeped in increments of 5 seconds so as not to become bitter. This malty robust brew then sweetens and becomes a succulent syrup. It is placed as a dark grape and mahogany flavor. This tea is known as a “high end Lapsang Souchong.” Once I entered the third or fourth steep I could see how this was apparent. The smokiness blends with sweetened twigs forming a tasteful brew. This tea has distinct undertones of earth and sugarcane. This was truly a perfect way to end my experience with this TTB, and I am glad I saved this for last. I highly recommend this for anyone wanting a treat.
Flavors: Cacao, Dark Wood, Rum, Smoke, Sugarcane
