This green tea fascinates me. The leaf looks like black tea – very small dark pieces. It calls for nearly boiling water and a less than 30 second steep. That just seems all wrong. The wet leaf is small torn pieces and remains dark. The brew has an orange tint and is quite dark for a green. By the look I expect a heavy brisk smoky flavor. Instead, it is mildly roasted with just a hint of smoke. In mid sip the flavor shifts and reminds me of some of the shengs I have been drinking – including the mouth feel. The biggest difference is in the late sip as this leaves you with a dry mouth which I guess indicates astringent but not at all bitter. I think if there were a mild green Keemun this might be what it would taste like. I would also venture to guess if you don’t follow the steeping instructions this could get overwhelming in a hurry.
