I’m finishing the last of this sample that I procured from Adagio. I think that this may just be the best cup of this yet! The aroma is nice – strong black tea, but a nice lingering essence of the citrus as well.
The flavor is that of a strong black tea. Adagio uses a Ceylon unlike any other that I’ve encountered – most Ceylons tend to possess a smooth, mild character but this is much more robust, with hints of a somewhat smoky character, and even a little malt. Not a bad thing – just different.
The flavor of the tangerine still competes a bit with the strength of the tea base, but, as I drink it, the flavor develops. A pleasant sweetness, very nice!
I decided to give this tea another go, since last night my cup was a little too bitter for me. This time, I brewed it just 3 minutes, and this seems to be about right for this tea.
I don’t know what it is about Adagio’s black tea base – but, it certainly is unlike most Ceylon teas that I’ve encountered. It has a very dry astringency to it, and I can even detect a malty note and even the slightest smoky characteristic to it. It’s much more robust than a typical Ceylon.
I think that this tea would be much better if the black base wasn’t so strong – because it would allow for some of the more delicate tangerine notes to be tasted. As it is, I can taste the tangerine, but, only mere hints of it.
I like it ok, but it is not my favorite. I am currently working on my review of this tea for the Tea Review Blog.
