I received this tea in the mail today (along with my beloved Queen Catherine!!) and just had to try this first. I was hoping that it would be similar in taste to Chicago Tea Garden’s Golden Bi Luo (especially because this one from Harney is much more reasonably priced). However, this tea isn’t the same – but it is at least just as good. I initially tried this without additions and it was toasty, slightly malty and really does remind you of unsweetened cocoa. This tea is actually more similar to Premium Steap’s Emperor’s Red which is great since that is one of my favorite teas ever. I added a bit of sweetener and milk, but I think this tea is a bit too delicate. The milk really overpowered the tea, but it was still drinkable. I am working on the second infusion now at 7min and although there is a little less body, the flavors are still present without any bitterness. I really am enjoying this tea and I have to say that the small, delicate rolled leaves are so cute.
On a side note, I really thought that Harney and Sons only used black tins like the one in the photo, but my tin is gold! I have to say that was a nice surprise and a little fancy which may have influenced my choice of drinking this before the Queen.
