The last several days I have been running tea marathons testing the steeping limits of new teas. Today I need a break, so I am returning to one of my everyday pleasure teas. I thought I would log this because of something I read in another review. I meant to write down who said it, but alas I have forgotten. This person avoids flavored teas until they have been out a few weeks so the flavorings have time to soak into the leaf. That made me aware what I was experiencing with this tea was not my imagination.
At first, the bergamot seemed overwhelming. To tame it I was cutting this tea with my Ti Kuan Yin. The intensity of the bergamot has since balanced so this is no longer necessary. I did learn to appreciate the Ti Kuan Yin (also Empire Tea Services) from this experience and was really glad when I could start enjoying it solo.
Now that the Earl Green has had time to settle, the emperors pride leaf is more pronounced (and delicious) and I realize it is in part responsible for the perfume notes. This is a more flowery bergamot more than it is citrus, even though there is orange rind in the mix. With a little age on the batch this has become a very good tea. Earl Grey was my favorite tea for years until I discovered Earl Green. Empire Tea Services is my current favorite. At least, until I find a green with this quality of leaf that leans a little more citrus.
In the time it has taken me to write this, I have finished my first cup. Shazbot, I hope my kidneys are up for another marathon!
