I find myself torn with this tea.
In reading the description I was so excited to try, even though I had never actually had star of anise before. I got so excited I almost bought it without even smelling it at the David’s store (new location on 6th ave!!) However at the last minute I noticed that licorice notes were in the description and that can go either way with me. However, it still smelled delicious enough, so I had to give it a try.
We have a small teaball at work, and although not my usual, preferred method, I couldn’t wait to try it. It was a challenge just packing what appeared to be a good representation of the blend into the teaball. I decided to stick with the tealeaves and coconut in the ball and allow a single star of anise to float freely in my cup. It looks very fancy!
I love the initial flavors, however the aftertaste reminds me of mints I had when I was younger (and despised). They were chalky white, but when you sucked on them a black, bitter/licorice-tasting and seed-like filling was in the center. I just can’t shake the comparison.
I think I need to try a few more cups before I make this decision – I do so want to like it!!
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Tea balls are evil. :P They never let you use the right amount of leaf or let it open up properly.
My cup to go was muddied with soy milk and I think this altered the flavour too much for me, so I am on the fence too. I am also not a licorice fan but was told the licorice flavour in here is not dominant.
I know! I keep meaning to bring in my David’s Perfect Mug so I can let the leaves expand properly! Soon enough I’ll have one to spare and won’t have to sacrifice at work! How did your second cup go?
Much better with cow milk. My last infusion had a big star anise in it so I pulled that out before adding the hot water, knowing it would add more licorice notes to the finished brew.
Tea balls are evil. :P They never let you use the right amount of leaf or let it open up properly.
My cup to go was muddied with soy milk and I think this altered the flavour too much for me, so I am on the fence too. I am also not a licorice fan but was told the licorice flavour in here is not dominant.
I know! I keep meaning to bring in my David’s Perfect Mug so I can let the leaves expand properly! Soon enough I’ll have one to spare and won’t have to sacrifice at work! How did your second cup go?
Much better with cow milk. My last infusion had a big star anise in it so I pulled that out before adding the hot water, knowing it would add more licorice notes to the finished brew.