Darjeeling Extra Fancy Kalimpong

I went to the foot doctor today and this was my treat to myself for being a good patient! There is a Peet’s nearby.

I wasn’t expecting much but this was really good, esp. for a 2nd flush darjeeling. I tried to take the tea sac thing out after about 3 or 4 minutes had passed, I didn’t want to oversteep it. The tea liquor was a burgundy color and it was deep and woody in flavor, with a nice fruitiness and a hint of muscatel. It wasn’t too astringent or pungent at all, which can be an issue with 2nd flushes. I would happily drink this again, it was good!

Training videos… O_o

Messed up my timer, so my steep time may have been off. I’ve had this a few times, and have yet to be wowed by it, but have also yet to be disappointed by it. This time seems a bit understeeped, but I’ve definitely oversteeped this tea in the past. I’d say more experimentation is necessary with this one.

This is a really fine and consistent Darjeeling. For many years it was my daily tea. It is smooth and deep without being bitter. While I love the first flushes, this tea has the depth that I love on a daily basis.

Steeped as directed (boiling water, 4 min). Aroma was wonderful, was looking forward to exploring it. But tea was slightly bitter (though above average overall). Will try again at 200 for 4 min.
200/4: lighter flavor, same bitterness
200/3.5: more of both
190/4: good flavor, least bitterness
Cannot figure out this tea. Did I get a bad batch? Can’t seem to escape that bitterness.

Tried and tried but finally dumped it. What a bummer.

Very brisk with a lingering finish. Pleasant notes of grape.