After a field day testing out some new teas at the Soho location, I ended up picking up a tin of this and Heavenly Gyokuro. I wanted a strong cup so I let this brew about 6 minutes and the risk paid off – the tea brewed up dark and strong, and as noted elsewhere had hints of Golden Monkey flavor. But it is just a tad spicier/smokier, giving it an intriguing and unique aftertaste which I rather enjoyed right off. I have tested different brewing parameters and suggest the full 5 minutes or more – at this point it grants a hint of assam to your palette. The aroma also fills your inhale and generates the commensurate desire for the tea. The extra brewing time also provides the creeping complexity I found lacking with a shorter steep.
Boiling
4 min, 45 sec