This is a very tasty tea that I’ve enjoyed immensely so far. I get notes of apricots and plums from the raw leaf; which is deep steamed, slightly dusty, and extremely fragrant. I’ve got 4/5 solid steepings out of each session so far — the longest I’ve ever been able to “stretch” any of Den’s teas.
The first cup tastes smooth and vegetal, with a hint of that buttery umami taste that I usually get from gyokuro. Lower temperatures help to bring bring out that umami flavor; which usually peaks around the 2nd or 3rd dense, jade cup. This is when its astringency starts to shine through, but it doesn’t become overbearing until the fourth or fifth cup. Later steepings make for a surprisingly flavorful iced tea!
