Yes, I am well aware that this is the lowest grade of white tea. But I wanted to try it plain as I’d only ever had it flavored. And hey, I really don’t care about grades. I like what I like, I don’t like what I don’t like. And I’ve had a few flavored whites that I believe use this as a base and it made me curious.
This is probably one of the least offensive teas I’ve ever tried. Very smooth, mouth feel is a little viscous (might be more pronounced if I steeped longer or used more leaf). No harshness, no bitterness, no astringency, no vegetal notes.
On the down side, there’s not a whole lot going for it either.
While there is a flavor to it, I am having difficulty really describing the flavors I do perceive. I’m not getting anything floral or earthy. Not really getting any sweetness either.
In fact, there are no flavors that really stand out, no real character other than the mouth feel. I can completely understand why this would be a choice for a flavored white tea. Its not going to compete with anything you mix it with. The thicker mouth feel can even add a little bonus.
Second steep is pretty much the same as the first.
Verdict: I like it, though I don’t know if its enough to seek this out again. However, its so cheap, you never know.
Might even try it out to see how it works as a cold brew or iced. I can imagine it being refreshing. My brain keeps wanting to add sliced strawberry to the glass.
Shou Mei is one of my favorite white teas!
I am certainly liking it. It has a simplistic delicacy that I find appealing.