Having a sample of this tea from Bana this afternoon.
Steeping method: xiying teapot after doing a quick rinse
First infusion: 45 seconds. earthy, slightly musty, a hint of smoke and bitterness. Shiitake mushroom aroma. hmmm
Second infusion: 60 seconds. Color is now darker. The tea has a very round mouthfeel and whatever bitterness I was sensing is now gone. The liquor is a gorgeous reddish brown. The flavor is very mild and soothing, woodsy. A tiny bit of sweetness present. Somewhat lighter in flavor than some other shus I have tried recently and a bit uninspired in terms of flavor, but definitely no offensive aromas/flavors.
Third infusion: Sweetness and richness is increasing with no noticeable loss of flavor. I am getting a bit of fruitiness along with some more wood sensations.
Not my favorite shu from Bana so far but still very nice, I enjoyed trying it. I think this would benefit from a few more years of aging perhaps.
