Mariage Frères Advent Calendar 2022 – Day 16
It looks like this lavender-heavy blend used to have a black tea base; it appears that MF has since subbed it for a green oolong with blue pea flowers. The first cup I had late last night was maybe too potent – lavender, citrus, and vanilla perfume is soothing but also a lot, especially when the tea broth is so blue…
The second steep this morning is more aligned with my preferences. The lavender is toned down but still dominant – whilst the vanilla and citrus (could be yuzu, grapefruit, bergamot, a mix, or neither) add brightness and and decadence to the cottage flower. The oolong base magnifies the milky, floral, and incense notes. There’s a fresh mouthfeel and a hint of something peppery; it’s a surprisingly round cup and I like it.
Steep Count: 4 good subsequent steeps!
Flavors: Berry, Butter, Citrus, Floral, Fruity, Lavender, Milky, Mineral, Perfume, Smooth, Vanilla, Vegetal, Violet