Wenshan Bao Zhong Winter Tea, Lot 880

At last, the long-awaited Winter Bao Zhong is here. As we ran out quite early of this year’s spring offering, this was a much awaited Lot this year. All who were waiting will be well-rewarded, this is a good Lot! It is produced by our long time collaborator, Mr. Ong. Winter Bao Zhong teas from the Wenshan area just east of Taipei garden are possibly the easiest teas to drink. They are mellow, silky and buttery with a distinctive sweetness that is not so prevalent in Spring teas. The cooler Fall weather contributes to the thicker texture of this year’s winter offerings. The aroma of buttered green beans with distinctive floral overtones is definitely there. Nothing aggresses the senses. The liqueur is smooth, refreshing, and very pleasant. As is our usual practice, we performed a light in-house oven baking/drying of this tea. This is to get rid of the humidity that often contaminates Northern Bao Zhong teas as they sit in the tea sorting factories awaiting they turn to be sorted after production. This brings back the aroma of the tea and stabilizes it for better storage. As usual, this is sunshine in a cup that comes at a time when many of us are in need of extra warmth for the soul, mind and body. Enjoy!