961 Tasting Notes
TeaTiff TTB #31
I kept a few small 1-cup samples and single teabags from the box to throw in my desk drawer at work, this being one of them. I love almond flavoring and don’t tend to care for cherry, so amaretto is always hit and miss for me. This one, unfortunately, is a miss. The flavor definitely tips more cherry than almond and is pretty mild overall. The base tea is rather brisk and astringent, leaving me wishing I had some milk to smooth it out. Not a fan!
Flavors: Almond, Astringent, Brisk, Cherry
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #29
This is my favorite oolong…and one of my favorite teas!…that I tried from this TTB. I’m not educated enough on oolong to know what Guei Fei means or what it’s “supposed” to taste like, but this one reminded me of a Yunnan black tea in the best way! It had that distinctive buttery-smooth mouthfeel of an oolong, but the flavor was much more robust than I’m used to, with a bit of maltiness and a hint of sweetness. I’d say the flavor reminded me of a slice of toast with honey. My second steep was as delicious as the first and I think these leaves still have more to give! I’d definitely consider purchasing this one at some point in the future!
Flavors: Bread, Honey, Malt, Smooth, Sweet, Toast
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #28
I pulled a few small oolong samples from the TTB to try before sending it off. This was one that had barely enough for 1 Western-style mug left. I’m guessing someone who enjoys floral tea would love this one, but for me it was that really intense floral flavor that borders on drinking perfume, so I wasn’t the biggest fan.
Flavors: Floral, Flowers, Smooth
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #27
Mmm, this is nice! It almost reminds me of a black tea with its rich, toasted bread flavor. But it also has that distinctive buttery smoothness of an oolong. I haven’t tried much from Rare Tea Company, but most of what I’ve had has been exceptional. I would definitely consider ordering this one in the future!
Flavors: Bread, Butter, Smooth, Toast
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #26
This reminded me a LOT of one of the chai blends Teavana used to always have on sample at their stores…I think it was called White Ayurvedic Chai? I liked that one, but didn’t love it, and I feel the same about this blend. It’s very pleasant, with a well-balanced mix of spices on a light, smooth white base tea. Nothing too exciting, but an enjoyable cup!
Flavors: Cardamom, Cinnamon, Ginger, Lemongrass, Smooth, Spices
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #25
I’ve never tried a tea with jalapeño in it, so I had to give this a shot! I actually quite enjoyed the balance of smoky and spicy, but the sour note coming through from the hibiscus somewhat ruined the experience for me. Still, such an interesting blend!
Flavors: Smoke, Sour, Spicy, Tart
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #24
This is one of the smoothest, lightest black teas I’ve ever tried! The flavor is quite fruity with a bit of citrus brightness followed by a lingering honey sweetness. Though I tend to prefer something more robust, I really enjoyed sampling this one!
Flavors: Citrus, Fruity, Honey, Smooth, Sweet
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #23
I love a good coconut tea, so I had to grab this one from the box! Despite the other ingredients in the blend, all I’m really tasting is coconut flavor on a smooth black tea base. Nothing special, but it’s hitting the spot to get me through my last hour of work today.
Flavors: Coconut, Smooth
Preparation
TeaTiff TTB #22
I’ve never had “Scooby Snacks”, but to me this tea smelled like Teddy Grahams when I opened the bag. My hopes were high, but the actual flavor was rather disappointing. I got a hint of cinnamon and something that vaguely reminded me of cookies, but it was pretty faint. The base tea blend is nice and smooth, though!
Flavors: Cinnamon, Cookie, Smooth