Drinking the 2006 ‘hush hush’ from Toby in this last curated box from Taiwan because I want to see if it’s something I want to buy and store myself.
Water hit 100c and I washed the tea. Let the tea sit for three minutes and then smelled it. There’s a clear smoky note to the tea as it opened up so I went ahead and rinsed it once more so the brews are more consistent. Another three minutes of sitting to open up, dropped the water down to 95c, and we are all set to start!
Steep 1: The liquid has a wonderful color to it. The brew came out clean. The smoky smell is still there. Some good legs on this tea. The leaf is a bit darker than I thought a 2006 would be at this point. Up front tang (like the tart of a raspberry) that isn’t as noticeable as the smoky aspects creep in from the taste. From the first steep there is no dry mouth stuff going on which is a plus. Pretty strong brew that captures your taste buds, however I want the smoke to go away and give me something of an aged sheng puerh.
Steep 2: Took a few sips and was surprised that it was bitter after a 3 second brew. Letting the cup sit for a minute to see if that dies out.
Yeah, no thanks. That tea got bitter after only 3 seconds. On to the next brew.
Steep 3: Flash brewed. Not bitter, but some astringency in the mouth feel now. The smoke is still the main aspect to this tea which isn’t as enjoyable :/
Some mouth dryness coming through at this point. Hoping that this all teeters off and gives me something that isn’t so palate killing in terms of astringency and smoke.
Steep 4: Dropping to 90c for a few steeps. Not much progress though just yet. Color, aroma, and taste still the same; this is a good sign because the leaf is strong and committed to being what it is.
Steep 5: The hue of the brew at this point has actually changed. Whether it is to do with the water or the leaf, who knows. A tad easier to sip down, but still a bit rough. Going to stop for a bit for a water break.
Water break thoughts:
Steep 6: Dangit.
At this point I am going to brew it for 60 seconds, discard, and restart this whole experience.
Steep 7: Tonight, 7 is not perfect. Going to call quits on this tea at this point.
This tea is for someone who likes that strong mouth feel, medium astringency, and smoke. Beyond those notes, I’m unable to make any remarks because it zapped my tasting ability for a bit.
