This early 2000s teacake is composed of white hairy buds that have been stored under natural conditions. The tea possesses a cheerful and uplifting character that makes for a fun drinking session. After a quick rinse the aroma of the age buds open up to a combination of wild honey and ripe fruits, noticeably apples and pears, with a dose of white port. Sipping the brew, the tea is rich and smooth in the mouth presenting a pleasant sweetness of rock sugar and wild honey, the flavors of ripen fruits accentuates that of pears, peaches, apples alongside a note of grape skin, layers of minerality and a touch of winey fermentation further elevates the senses. Altogether it is sunshine in the cup. Resting the brew serves to enhance the taste and texture of the tea soup.
Brewing Tips: This is a tea that rewards attention to detail in both its preparation and appreciation. For a delicate tea water quality, brewing vessel, heat, steeping time will have greater impact on the resulting brew. The aromatics coupled with the tea’s rich and subtle nuances are where the tea shines and brewing the tea with this in mind will be all the more rewarding. Personally I use a ratio of 5-6g/100ml with boiling water (rested for a few minutes). My advice is start light and work your way up. Proceed leisurely (even slowly), allowing time in between steeps for the brew to rest and develop. My tea session will last 3-4 hrs allowing plenty of time for the tea buds to open up, transform and thereafter be enjoyed. Once the initial light characteristics transform, the tea becomes richer with more dark nuances.
Brewing Tips: This is a tea that rewards attention to detail in both its preparation and appreciation. For a delicate tea water quality, brewing vessel, heat, steeping time will have greater impact on the resulting brew. The aromatics coupled with the tea’s rich and subtle nuances are where the tea shines and brewing the tea with this in mind will be all the more rewarding. Personally I use a ratio of 5-6g/100ml with boiling water (rested for a few minutes). My advice is start light and work your way up. Proceed leisurely (even slowly), allowing time in between steeps for the brew to rest and develop. My tea session will last 3-4 hrs allowing plenty of time for the tea buds to open up, transform and thereafter be enjoyed. Once the initial light characteristics transform, the tea becomes richer with more dark nuances.
Over 20yrs the buds have turned from white to gold
Wet leaves
Rich and delicate brew
