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804 Tasting Notes

Shui Jin Gui Wuyi Oolong from Verdant Tea
100

Full review will post on http://sororiteasisters.com/ on the 1st of March but here are my snippits:

The first word that comes to mind while I sniff the dry leaf is sweet honey sugar succulent dripping with lust omgoodness! Okay that was more than one word, but seriously, I do love oolong, but some oolong are far superior to others and this is like the king of dessert-y oolong!

The caramel is perfection, the elderberry brightens the cup and makes it just a tiny bit “zippy” the honey note gives the tea its depth of character adding to the caramel aspect its like something sinful. There is even a spicy note within this tea. Then there is a wondrous floral note that just gracefully lingers all over the tongue, roof of mouth, back of mouth, its dancing around everywhere with sugar berries, caramelized honey, earthy elderberry, and the nuttiness of almond that also adds a slightly, but never bitter astringency, yet this tea remains so smooth all at the same time.

Banana Matcha from Red Leaf Tea
89

Really needed a pick me up as I only got about 4 hours of sleep last night. I wanted to sleep in longer but woke up after four hours ready to go, because I had a killer idea for a screen play which I started writing, but then it hit me after I had been up for a couple of hours, but then it was too late to go back to bed, and do you like my run on sentence? Its the matcha’s fault. ANYWAY … yeah this is good stuff! Not my favorite from Red Leaf but geesh with so many to choose from they cant ALL be favorites.
I really want the new Apple Pie and Berry Pie matchas but geesh when does it END? LOL never that is when … the crux of the tea addiction.
YAY….

Sweet Potato Pie from Handmade Tea
87

I am going to let this sit a bit longer to meld but so far I enjoyed two steeps of this tea.
It has a nice flavor of marshmallow and in the second steep I got a nice spiciness but I do feel it has room to develop yet.
I am not sure how far in advance Caleb blends his teas before they are shipped but I have a feeling this has yet to come to its full potential.
I will say this however. It is one of the best Sweet Potato Pie blends I have had to date.
TONS of marshmallows, TONS of sweet potato bits, and a good oolong base.
I am so happy I signed up for this subscription!
The only down side which is really not a downside is that the tin is SO air tight I could barely get the lid off. :)

Jardin Bleu from Dammann Freres
86

This is such a lovely tea. Thank you Ysaurella for this one!
I just got a steal on another Dammann Freres tea today on Fab but this was another option. I love this one and almost got it but the curious creature in me decided to go for one I have not had before.
Ysaurella sent me a generous sample of this one.
Its fruity but light, not overpowering with artificial flavors. Quite smooth, and a wonderful strawberry flavor with a tangy zest. Second steep is also delicious!

Organic Gyokuro from Aiya
98

Full review will post on Sororitea Sisters on the 27th but here are my snippits:

I feel very centered and balanced when I sip this tea, and it makes me feel like I am doing something really wonderful for my body, and mind. Gyokuro is known for its balance of sweet and bitter, even when steeped properly there is a slight astringency in the sip. Yet, it is sweet as well, which brings this perfect harmony to the cup. Its the perfect balance indeed.

There is just something special about Japanese Green Tea, something that only high quality companies that have high standards can bring us as tea lovers. Aiya brings us some of the best examples of excellent Japanese Green Tea.

Phoenix Dan Cong (Snow Flakes) Oolong Tea from China Cha Dao
89

Full review on http://sororiteasisters.com/ on the 26th but here are the snippits:

I prefer the second steep to the first, and in the future would probably even do a quick rinse, like one would do with pu-erh, before sipping.

The aroma is that of flowers, orange, and grapefruit. The liquid should be rather pale, be sure not to over steep this one. Gong Fu brewing is recommended.

This is a unique tea with a completely different flavor profile from any oolong that I have ever had. I can see where some would adore this tea and where others may not care for it. I think those who adore it will want it in their stash at all times, however for those we do not, they should at least experience an oolong like this once.

Three Friends (Orange, Marshmallow, Chocolate) from Butiki Teas
95

You know what sucks about this tea? The fact I had only a sample of it. Augggg NEED MORE!

Mon Secret from Nina's Paris

I agree – this one had to have lost a lot of flavor somehow. I read Kittenna’s review so I didn’t steep as long as I normally would but when I didn’t get flavor I went ahead and put the basket back in.
I never got the astringency or plastic taste that Kittenna got which is good but I still never got flavor.
Not rating as I fear something is wrong with this tea and would be happy to give it another chance.

Lemon Souffle from White Lion
100

Full Review forthcoming on http://sororiteasisters.com/ on the 25th – here are the snippits:

I have searched high and low for a tea like Lemon Souffle from White Lion. This tea is exceptional. I knew I wanted something creamy, because I am a big fan of lemon desserts, and I knew I wanted something some what sweet for that reason.

The vanilla and caramel essence do not take over the cup, but rather play supporting roles, helping the tea taste like a lemon creme brulee or lemon cream tart.

I had ordered only two sampler sized teas from White Lion and the box I received was simply awe inspiring!

Customer Service from White Lion has been excellent thus far.

If you want a tea, in a tasty white base, that reminds you of a gourmet lemon cream dessert, then don’t hesitate to try Lemon Souffle from White Lion. You will feel like royalty when you open your box, and be quite pleased with yourself for placing an order when you sip their teas!

Yunnan Beauty from Mandala Tea
95

Full review on http://sororiteasisters.com/ on the 24th but for now here are the snippits:

The sweet aroma is present both in dry leaf and when steeped. There is a wonderful sweetness in the taste of this tea not quite honey but not quite molasses, more like sourgum. This lends to the tea being somewhat wine like in flavor, but not muscatel. If memory serves this tea is similar to a barley wine, but it has been years since I have sipped barely wine.

At 6.00 per ounce, discounted to 21.60 if you purchase 4 ounces this tea is a steal for a high quality and totally unique oolong.

The flavor of this tea really coats your mouth leaving behind a long lasting delicious flavor and aroma that sticks in your nostrils. As you breath you can taste the tea even more.

Eggnog from Trail Lodge Tea
75

Full review on http://sororiteasisters.com/ on the 23rd but for now here are the snippits:

Eggnog from Trail Lodge Tea has a distinct aroma of spices and custard when steeped. From the visual aspect, white tea, is my favorite tea. The dry leaf is beautiful, downy, and whole.

There is a lacking in the sweetness for me personally, yet I did not try it with any added sugar, so I can’t say if that would have helped or not.

Overall this is a good eggnog blend and it does indeed taste like eggnog. Its creamy, and it has the right flavors with the spice and vanilla bean. I don’t know if this is one I would personally go right out and order, yet I would suggest if you enjoy this flavor profile to try some. I know Trail Lodge Teas has several other teas in their arsenal that I adore, so now and then I would probably add this to my cart before checking out.

Lady Londonderry from English Tea Store
96

Nothing like a cup of Lady Londonderry to warm up to on a very snowy day!

Peach Melba from Mahamosa Gourmet Teas, Spices & Herbs
92

Look for full review on SoroiTea Sisters on the 22nd!

Peach Melba from Mahamosa Gourmet Teas, Spices, and Herbs is a sweet, tangy, treat.

I want to address the hibiscus in this blend. Its done so well! I am not one to favor hibiscus in any amount. I see no need for it 99% of the time, however in this blend it actually does something good! To begin, it provides the right amount of tart to make this rather sweet tea balanced. Secondly, it does not cover all the other flavors in the tisane.

If you enjoy this tea hot you simply must try some on ice! It is something I can see myself serving in place of juice this summer and far more healthy!

Glenburn Estate Darjeeling from Butiki Teas
97

Full Review on SororiTea Sisters on the 21st but here are the snippits:

Glenburn Estate Darjeeling from Butiki Teas is a prime example of a quality first flush Darjeeling. If you are like me and generally prefer second flush you should still give this one a try, because it is worth it to have one of the best first flush Darjeeling’s as a tea lover and connoisseur.

The flavor notes are so laid back, mellow, but absolutely present. I love the light juicy sweet peach notes, the light lilting floral flavor, and that ever so subtle touch of ginger, which I pick up more in the aroma than the flavor but again, the flavor is there. I even get a honey aroma and note on the palate.

This has made it to my shopping list.

Organic Sencha from Aiya
90

Full Review will be on http://sororiteasisters.com/ on the 20th but here are my snippits:

I found this cup to have a nutty appeal, grassy of course, and just a slight seaweed flavor. While also vegetal, I find the vegetal notes to be somewhat tame.

This sencha also leaves a lovely floral essence on the palate. It is a surprising and delicious experience.

Butternut Pie Matcha from Red Leaf Tea
92

This is on my top 20 list which is saying a lot considering all the amazing flavors at Red Leaf Tea!

It has that nutty buttery flavor I love. I have never had butternut pie but I would sure love some after having this!

I made mine in a latte iced and it was so delicious and really helped that sweet tooth that has been bugging me this whole past week.

There is a creaminess and a rich sweetness to the tea but the butteriness of the matcha is a perfect match for the nutty and buttery goodness of this flavor.

I got mine in robust flavoring with the basic matcha grade.

I do love RLT’s higher grade of matcha so much but honestly in the flavored matcha I am quite fine with the basic grade as it is excellent as well.

You can order this matcha here:
http://www.redleaftea.com/matcha-tea/butternut-pie-matcha.html

Some of my other favorite matcha flavors include Boysenberry, Butterscotch, and Macadamia Nut. Now if only they could make a BACON flavored matcha!!

Seriously though this is a good one! If you are looking for something a little different to satisfy that sweet tooth look no further!

Pineapple Cilantro Cream from Butiki Teas
100

Is it possible that Stacy is getting even BETTER at blending teas? I think so! This is NUM NUM NUMMY!

Creamy Eggnog from Butiki Teas
100

Full review on the 19th here http://sororiteasisters.com/
For now the snippits:

There is such a sweet and subtle spice in this tea but the vanilla cuts it so that it does not come off on the palate as a spiced tea at all. I get just a hint of a note of nutmeg in the cup. The tea sits somewhat heavily on the palate and the mouthful is very creamy indeed. So unexpected from such a light colored tea, which is a clear, and pale, sunny yellow.

I tell you, this tea is screaming to be created into a latte with some frothed milk or milk substitute sitting on top! Add a little nutmeg or cinnamon – sinful … I’m going to go do that right now!

This is not actually in the review on SororiTea sisters but Steepsters – GET SOME it is SO SO SO Good!

Nina's Paris from Nina's Paris
93

Full review on the 18th on http://sororiteasisters.com/ but here are the snippits:

The initial sip evokes the cherry flavors in such a pleasant way. Nothing like a medicinal cheery or artificial cherry flavor. As a matter of fact the flavors in this tea are delicious and quite natural with no residual “oily” look or texture floating on top of the cup. In fact the tea is so clear that I am highly pleased as I anticipated some type of oils from all the varied flavorings.

It is wonderful how lovely the flavors meld, I can distinctly pick up all flavors of peach, strawberry, and cherry, and they blend in harmony.

Anxi Superfine Tie Guan Yin “Iron Goddess” Oolong Tea from Teavivre
100

Good golly this is amazing! The floral aspects are perfection but there is a melon-y aspect that is surprising and delicious!
This goes on the TO ORDER list!
This may just end up being a staple as well.
We will see how much I continue to crave it after my first order.

Bao Zhong from The Persimmon Tree Tea Company
94

I am so happy to have this tea again! I only had a sample back in the day when I reviewed it the first time. I have more knowledge about teas now and I ADORE this tea! I love a great pouchong!
Full review on sororiteasisters.com on the 17th!

Wuyi Dark Roast from Samovar
74

Passing this along in trades. Its a great intro to Wuyi Oolong but sadly I feel this is one of Samovar’s lesser teas. I love Samovar when I can afford them but I feel this Wuyi is a little lacking. Its good, don’t get me wrong, but as I said a good starter Wuyi. Its not as complex as it could be. Sipdown of the tin I had and still have a box to dig out and pass on as well.
Flavor notes:
Mineral
Honey
Cocoa
Salt
Roasted Notes
Floral after taste.

Monk's Blend from The London Tea Room
87

The first time I logged this was 11 months ago when I first got started on Steepster. I have tried hundreds of teas since then but this one still holds up to being a really excellent tea.
Fruity, a creamy mouthfeel, good with or without sugar and creamer, even just a tiny tiny bit smokey.
A rich full cup.
I still love you Monks Blend and that is more than I can say for many of my “first teas”.

Coconut Oolong from The London Tea Room
80

Sipdown. It was lovely. Stayed fresh considering it is one of the first loose leaf teas I ever purchased. London Tea Room seems to have a ton of new teas. I think I will hit them next month for an order.
This … was delicious!

Profile

Bio

Most of my reviews will be “snippits” of full reviews that can be found at http://sororiteasisters.com/
Posted every evening at 6 EST.
I usually try to post the exact date that the full reviews will post however sometimes post dates need changed so it may not always be correct. Generally the dates are correct however.

About Me:

Most of my reviews, although not all, will be quite favorable of the tea. This is not because all tea is excellent, but more so because I generally will not waste my time on an inferior tea. If I do not care for a tea I won’t continue to drink it let alone spend time reviewing it. If you see a review by me you basically know it is a quality tea. Granted it may not suit your specific taste buds, we all like different things, but as for a tea on the whole it is a good one, from a good company.

I am a spiritual advisor by profession.
I have two “young adult” children.
Four cats and three dogs.

Some of my hobbies include gardening, essential oil therapy, natural perfumery with essential oils, and cooking.

I look for complexity overall in any tea, dimensions to the flavors.

I believe tea should evoke a feeling, thought, emotion, or attitude.

I enjoy most all oolongs, blacks, whites, and greens.

I always love to try a good yellow tea.

I favor unadulterated teas but I do have my longings for a good flavored tea now and then so I don’t rule them out by any means!

I enjoy green rooibos don not like red rooibos.

Find me on facebook and twitter – Azzrian Visions

Location

Kansas

Website

http://www.azzrianvisions.com

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