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“This was one of the first teas that I have drank an entire pot of before the tea became cool. It is one of my favorite black teas. The hints of smooth caramel are apparent but not over-powering....” Read full tasting note
“This morning’s work tea is this nice golden tea from Hunan province of China. It’s slightly twisted leaf is on the longer side and is colored mustard yellow, dark green and black. It is like a...” Read full tasting note
“This is a pretty smoky smelling tea. It’s not overpowering like some I’ve had but as I’m not a fan of smoky tea, it’s enough. The flavor is a little caramel, a little smoke and a little something...” Read full tasting note
“A full bodied, slightly malty black with mild astringency. Stands up to repeated steepings very well. The flavor becomes deeper and more complex when brewed gongfu style.” Read full tasting note
This special tea is mostly golden bud and leaf with a deep, rich aroma. It brews up very full-bodied with a definite sweet earthiness to it, and an almost caramelized quality to the dark flavor. Totally unique and wonderful.
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This was one of the first teas that I have drank an entire pot of before the tea became cool. It is one of my favorite black teas. The hints of smooth caramel are apparent but not over-powering. Black Bud would be an excellent alternative to a morning breakfast blend or everyday black tea, due to its’ drinkability.
Tea source never ceases to amaze me – wonderful company and so easy to work with too. When my husband and I travel to Minneapolis, MN area (where Teasource is located), we love to stop by local coffee shops that sell tea source teas. I am yet to be disappointed.
Very pleased with this tea. I would like some right now too!
This morning’s work tea is this nice golden tea from Hunan province of China. It’s slightly twisted leaf is on the longer side and is colored mustard yellow, dark green and black. It is like a golden yunnan tea, and has the hint of smokiness in the aroma of the dry leaf and in the taste of the brew. The malty caramel-ish brew is very good. This is highly recommended for those liking this variety of tea.
This is a pretty smoky smelling tea. It’s not overpowering like some I’ve had but as I’m not a fan of smoky tea, it’s enough. The flavor is a little caramel, a little smoke and a little something else I can’t quite place. It’s a decent enough tea, just not one for me.
A full bodied, slightly malty black with mild astringency. Stands up to repeated steepings very well.
The flavor becomes deeper and more complex when brewed gongfu style.
Flavors: Malt, Tea, Umami, Vegetal
My aunt was put off by the smell—she likened it to cat piss. I wouldn’t quite put it that way, but it is pungent—very smoky. It does taste a lot better than it smells though. A bit chocolate or caramel in taste, with the earthiness I’m beginning to realize is very characteristic of most China Black teas. I think I’m getting more used to that taste, but I think its absence is precisely why I tend to prefer Indian teas.
If you travel to Minneapolis, my favorite tea company is located there…Verdant Tea. (I believe Mandela Tea is there also). I think Verdant is sold or served at some local places but they are an online company of the highest quality. Most of what I know about tea comes from them.
Oh, wonderful information! I am putting those names in my phone now so that I do not forget. Hopefully I can get up there soon. thanks bonnie.
Hey- I’m ditto’ing Bonnie. (I live in the Twin Cities) Verdant has tea at several local spots, plus the Farmers’ markets in Linden Hills and Northeast. Verdant often has tastings in the warehouse district, so it’s worth checking out the mailing list or keeping an eye on facebook for future visits.
Mandala is currently located in Winona, MN (just two or three hours South along the river.. depending on how fast you drive), so it’s worth a stop if you’re ever visiting that region. Mandala is actually a whole wellness center, and the only downside is that they’re not normally open on the weekends.
They’re both busy guys, but also very welcoming, so it might be worth dropping them an e-mail if you’re ever in town, even if only to get recommendations of things to do, places to eat, etc.
It’s been quite awhile since I’ve had TeaSource tea. Is this one Chinese or Indian? I know the owner is really passionate about Indian teas (which I’ve unfortunately yet to fall in love with). If I find myself in the shop, I’ll keep this one in mind. Thanks for the recommendation!
Keep the tips coming! I am so excited for my next trip to the cities. And Mandala sounds incredible.
As far as whether or not this is Chinese or Indian – I am not quite sure. I’m a sucker for simple, tasty black teas and this one does the trick for me!
That sounds nice to me!