Very smoky aroma, also a slight musty smell, although the dry leaves are in perfect condition— not surprising considering the slow drying process— I can almost picture them damp and out of sight somewhere.
First steep is the color of light amber with a pronounced smoky flavor. Burnt hay, not in a bad way. Not getting any peanut or sweetness. As it cools more… brown butter, very buttery especially at the finish of a sip.
Second steep is all brown butter; with the buttery flavor and dark tea dust at the bottom of the golden liquid, I could almost believe I am drinking a cup of brown butter. The mouth feel is not heavy, though.I let the third steep go extra long, and it is a little more bitter tasting, but wow even more buttery and some saltiness. Broth-like quality— I keep expecting to see a layer of sheen on top but there is no actual oiliness here. Less smoky, this is my favorite steep. Strangely like a gourmet popcorn now, with brown butter and a little salt.
Very, very interesting.
Flavors: Burnt, Butter, Salt, Smoke
Comments
Wow – I’m amazed at how differently you’re experiencing this tea! You’re getting the butter, not the peanut, and I’m the other way around. And I didn’t get any smokiness, either! Now I’ve got to brew up some just to see if I can get any of the flavors you did!
No smoke? No way! :). That is curious. It’s a particularly familiar smoke flavor, too, and I just can’t place it. Not wood or cigar— now I need to try it again, too!
mmmm this sounds deliciously up my alley…
Huh. Pretty neat flavour profile, there!
Wow – I’m amazed at how differently you’re experiencing this tea! You’re getting the butter, not the peanut, and I’m the other way around. And I didn’t get any smokiness, either! Now I’ve got to brew up some just to see if I can get any of the flavors you did!
No smoke? No way! :). That is curious. It’s a particularly familiar smoke flavor, too, and I just can’t place it. Not wood or cigar— now I need to try it again, too!
i can’t wait to try these :)
I’m betting that one of you uses more of the leaf than the other.