I’ve just placed another order with Butiki (I’m calling it autumn/winter preperation, even though that’s debatable at best…), so it seemed the right time to begin finishing a couple of Butiki teas from previous orders. I did wonder at first how it would be possible to capture the flavour of melon in tea, but it’s achieved perfectly here. Even just opening the packet, I get a waft of sweet, juicy melon. Cantaloupe isn’t even my favourite in terms of the actual fruit, but it could be if it tasted as good as this smells! The dry mix is really pretty, with the greyish green Bai Mu Dan and the beautiful yellow helichrysum flowers. It was a treat to watch it as it brewed, which can’t be said of all that many teas.
To taste, this is absolutely perfect. The white tea base is light and delicate, mellow-tasting and slightly sweet. The melon is the true star, though, the flavour perfectly replicated and juicy besides. There’s a hint of cream, although it’s mostly in the background. Taken together, this is one of the nicest flavoured white teas I’ve had the pleasure of drinking this year. I’ve got a couple of cups worth left, so I’ll probably take this to work with me for when I need a treat to get me through the day. Beautiful stuff!
Isn’t Butiki wonderful :)