(Caveat: The sample I received was labeled “Golden Yunnan” and advised steeping @ 200 for 5 minutes. I hope/assume it’s this tea).
Wow. What a smooth, full-bodied, flavorful cup this is. I brewed it for the full five minutes suggested, all the while worrying it might turn bitter, but such was not the case. No bitterness whatsoever. I did not get the tobacco notes — which is fine with me, because I’m not fond of tobacco or anything smoky — but I did sense honey, dark chocolate, caramel and a hint of fresh-baked bread. The mouth-feel is sort of thick and heavy, in a pleasant way, but there is no aftertaste. The liquor is golden-reddish-brown.
This is robust without being rough. Elegant, even. But not delicate. It’s bursting with smooth, addictive flavor. This is how black tea should taste. I’d love to have more of this.