2005 Bu Lang Ancient Big Tree Silver Tip Cake (Sheng)

I received a shred of this from Seykaykay – also a surprise. It was – I believe – a white bud sheng, and it caught my eye by title. She was generous enough to impart some to me. The liquor brewed to a brilliant amber after a four minute steep. Steam nose was pungently floral, like jasmine without the bite. The scent also had a faint feeling of Pinot Gris to it; dry yet fruity. The taste was a little harsh on the front, but settled warmly into a maple/vanilla-like palate on the back. It’s a superb sheng, through and through.