This is a tea that I have stashed away and don’t drink often. I only drink it when I am looking for a change or really want something different. The smell isn’t pleasant to the nose at all…pure bark and dirt smell. The coloring is light brown. It has a very earthy taste to it, indeed, maybe even a little smokey. I’m neutral on this one. I’m careful not to over steep, however, then it would be pretty nasty.