Despite my meh feeling towards roasted oolongs, I still buy Wuyi because I like it in bubble tea and a few have been quite memorable. This tea wasn’t much to brag about initially until I ignored brewing directions and dialed the leaf quantity way down to about 1 tsp/1 gram.
That may be weak for some, but for me it was perfect. It brought out the tea’s best flavor without the overbearing roastiness that can ruin it. There is a smooth, roasty oak flavor complemented with a slightly sweet minerality and notes of cacao nibs. I’ve noticed the latter is characteristic of many of Verdant teas. As it cools, it develops more sweetness and complexity.
Bumping up my rating as I now enjoy this after finally getting the steeping right.