This was a recent purchase for me at Red Blossom, it almost felt like they were trying to talk me out of purchasing this one, after reading the description I am a little scared… lol. Regardless the only other gunpowder I’ve had was Numi’s and I liked that version.
I steeped this gong fu style for only about 30 seconds, I think that was probably enough for me, I’m not sure it would need to be much stronger. The smell is smoky and very nutty and the flavor is definitely assertive, must be the strongest bodied green tea I now currently own. I’m not normally a huge fan of smoky teas (or of pungent ones)! I am getting walnuts, smoke and some hearty green vegetal notes, roasted artichoke or even brussels sprouts. It also has a nice richness which I can only liken to olive oil. If green teas were like musical instruments this might be the tuba… lol. I think without the slightly sweet richness playing a part this would almost be unbearable but it works.
I did get a second steep put of this and I’d imagine I could even one more perhaps.
Anyway since I’ve been drinking so much sheng lately I’ve gotten used to some of these flavors. The BF who normally doesn’t have much of a reaction to green teas thought this one was good. I cannot see drinking this first thing in the morning or with a stomach ache, but it would be good in the afternoon, or perhaps with a meal. Definitely recommended for adventurous types & is much stronger than the Numi teabags. :)
