Very dark green, almost black, long rolled-up leaves. (Dachi Tea describes this as a black tea.)
My favourite thing about this tea is the heavenly smell. The fragrance is harmonious––a rich blend of chocolate, floral, fruit, honey, and vegetal scents. This is the first tea I’ve ever made in a gaiwan, so I’m glad it turned out well.
On the first infusion, the overpowering flavour of this Honeysuckle Oolong is a dark, bitter chocolate. The tea smelled good but tasted bitter and the tea leaves smelled bitter (I feared I had burnt it) so I threw out most of the first infusion.
But it brightens up by the second infusion, and the fruity notes (kumquat, plum) and vegetal notes are out in full force by the 3rd infusion. Oh my goodness I love this tea. On the 5th and 6th I’m really noticing the vegetal / herbal notes more, but also more astringency, dryness though. I don’t think it can handle a 7th infusion.
–– Pairings ––
This tea goes great with pastry to counter and complement the sugary-sweetness of a baked good. I feel like I’m pampering myself when I have this with my breakfast.
Flavors: Cocoa, Honey, Plum, Vegetal
