I steeped this one a little longer today after reading that going up to 7 minutes can release some new, subtle flavors. I wasn’t too brave, so I only took it to 6 min. 15. sec. instead of my usual 4 to 4 1/2 minutes. It certainly did not get bitter. I think I detected a little smoke, as expected from a keemun but very light, and this time I picked what I believe should be called toasted walnut! Maybe that is how the extra time affects the cocoa notes. There was also a light, fruity scent at the beginning that I didn’t notice as much as the tea cooled. I will resteep these leaves, and see how it goes leaving it for 7 minutes. In the meantime, I am finishing this 22 oz. pot sans additions, and it is very smooth. I kept it just under the boil, as I read here that is how they are doing it at Harney Soho.
