I was a bit alarmed when I smelled a smokiness upon opening the tea package. After steeping I could smell some of the fruit flavor too. I was expecting the smokiness to have a very sharp taste, but it actually blends well and is more of a smoother flavor.
Over time, I’ve grown to appreciate this tea more~ I don’t know if the tea has aired out a bit and isn’t as pungent/smokey as before but it is quite nice now.
I don’t have a sensitive palate but I do tend to shy away from harsh and bitter flavors. For instance, I can’t stand raw celery and olives – the smell/taste is way too intense. I find coffee to be too muddy/earthy, tea is light and crisp.
I find plain, black tea to be either too bitter or a bit too bland – unless I’m adding cream and sugar. I love flavored black teas; flavored rooibos is great as an evening drink; and light, grassy green teas are wonderful. Oolong and Pu-erh teas are good too but haven’t had as much exposure to them. White teas I’m still on the fence – one day I hope I’ll find one that I’ll like. I don’t like the spiced teas (e.g. chai)
My Grading Scale:
80-100 – Excellent Teas. These are the Teas I crave all the time, even when trying out new teas.
60-79 – Good Teas. I drink these occasionally.
50-59 – Passing Grade. These are worth a try again
Below 50 – Would not recommend, and probably will never try again
US
