Mike G Send Message

I am a fan of Oolongs, especially Ti Kuan Yin, and I’m currently in a personal quest trying to taste all Tikuanyins possible to see which one will earn a permanent spot in my cupboard. I came across this particular one after ordering some tea from H&S’s website. The description intrigued me but the steep price ($54 for 2oz) put me off. Luckily, my girlfriend gave me this tea as a gift for Christmas and I was very excited to try it. My first brew was a disappointment. The tea was flavorless and tasted nothing like any other Tikuanyin I’ve had before, but I acknowledge that I brewed it with the incorrect leaf-to-water ratio and in a regular mug. The second brew, this time done correctly in a Gaiwan and correct leaf-to-water ratio, was very interesting.

This tea tastes very different from other Tikuanyin’s I’ve had, different but very good. The tea brewed a pale yellow-green cup. It was sweet, buttery and very floral with a delightful aroma. The taste is subtler than the other Tikuanyin’s I’ve had, but it was the sweet buttery lingering aftertaste in the back of your throat that makes this tea unique.

Overall, this is one of those teas you have to sit down and enjoy it by itself, savoring each sip, otherwise you might not pick up its subtle flavors. I was disappointed a little due to its high price and colorful description, I guess I expected a bit too much.