This was a pretty solid raw puerh – ordered this and a few others to try some of YS’s wetter stored teas. On none of my sessions did the first few steeps really speak to me – they were slightly musty and a bit leathery. Thankfully that flavor is not too long-lived in this tea, and even when it is present, it does not make the early infusions undrinkable. The next few infusions are a decently thick earthy flavor.
My favorite part of this tea was the second half of the session, where it transitioned into a really clean and sweet woody flavor. It reminded me quite a bit of a bourbon without the alcohol – not quite as thick either, but did exhibit some pleasant texture. I didn’t pick up much of any qi from this one.
I would say this tea’s a pretty good one that is totally drinkable now – kind of a daily drinker-aged sort of thing. I don’t know if it would get much better with more age, but I don’t have the experience to say. A good sample which I enjoyed every session of, but not one I want a cake of really.
Flavors: Earth, Leather, Musty, Sweet, Wood