This is a complex and well-balanced Tian Jian with a pungent aroma. I am likely to purchase more once I finish my sample.
Dry leaves smell of old books, nuts, old leather clothes and have a very noticeable cooling menthol quality, especially in the preheated gaiwan. After the rinse, I get further aromas of wood, tea tree oil, petrichor, and mushrooms. It is a very distinct and memorable scent, reminiscent of aged yancha and also a bit like a clean side street in a city after some rain.
The liquor is very smooth and comforting. It tastes sweet and metallic with a slightly sour finish and notes of wet earth. In the aftertaste I can taste sage and molasses, but it is quite nutty overall. The mouthfeel is another great aspect of the tea – it is creamy, smooth, and thick. Finally, the cha qi is not too strong, but I found it to be very nice too. It felt mind-clearing, sedating, and relaxing.
Flavors: Eucalyptus, Leather, Menthol, Metallic, Molasses, Mushrooms, Nuts, Nutty, Paper, Petrichor, Pleasantly Sour, Sage, Smooth, Wet Earth, Wood
