2 Tasting Notes
This is a really lovely and rather interesting oolong. It’s certainly complex and also somehow milder than most oolongs I’ve had. The tea tastes slightly smokey, but not overwhelmingly so. In fact, overall it seems more light than smokey. It tastes slightly of citrus fruit and, at times, is even a little bit floral. It does kind of have a “kick” to it while retaining its smoothness. It isn’t bitter at all. The taste of this tea lingers but it is pleasant. I wish I had a better vocabulary to explain this one. I’m looking forward to my second steep.
Flavors: Citrus, Floral, Honey, Smoke, Wet Rocks
Preparation
Plantation Mint has a name that doesn’t really recommend it. It also comes out of the packaging smelling like chewing gum, which was a bit disconcerting, but at least makes it clear they do really seal in the freshness with those little pouches. Once brewed, the scent becomes more subtle. Upon tasting, the mint is still a dominant flavor and leaves a bit of a pleasant aftertaste. Though this tea is a blend, the black tea in Plantation Mint is smooth and not particularly noticeable. The tea’s flavor is not at all bitter and is pleasant to drink completely unsweetened. I don’t drink mint tea everyday, but this one is surprisingly good for the price and it may become a mainstay in my cabinet. In sum, this is a smooth, sweet and inexpensive change from the more typical peppermint teas that line grocery store shelves. Bigelow’s done good with this one.
Note: For those looking strictly for a herbal or decaf tea, please note that is has a black tea and contains a fair amount of caffeine.
Flavors: Spearmint