Assam Marangi

TeaGschwender makes great claims for this tea, which I am still trying to validate. It is light, and the lack of bitterness allows the fruity/nutty flavors to come through, but I’m still partial to the Mangalam Estate teas, maybe because I feel they have a greater foundation. I’m not sure Iike the direction toward which many Assams and Darjeelings are moving—striving for delicacy on the top notes, while sacrificing body in the process. Still, in the scheme of things, this is a satisfying Assam.

Made my way over to Ann Arbor this weekend and stopped by the Tea Haus. The tea cupboard was a little empty. Really like this tea even if it’s a little pricey. I love the carmel, malty flavors. One can pick out the fruity flavors as well. Great for sipping on an overcast gloomy spring day.

I always try and get the most out of my leaves, so I steeped the same leaves for a second time. Not bad, really, just not as good as the first steeping.

Beautiful stuff with delicate, fruity-floral/nutty depth. As far as value for money, though, I’d say that this tea is a bit over-priced. You can get an excellent Meleng or Mangalam for two thirds, maybe even half the price. I’m not sorry I sampled this one, though!

Rich, malty, notes of caramel, and nuts and like the description suggests, almost ale-like. Reminds me of scotch ale or even a fine Belgian Tripel (of course without the alcohol). Complex heady cup to start the day. Delicious.

I really liked this tea. I can’t describe whether it has carmel or malty flavors, but I really enjoyed it. The dryness (astringency) is noticable but not pronounced. I steeped it for three minutes – I don’t think I’d want to go longer and am confident I’ll be able to go with a shorter time, too.

Humm…..I’m going to have to try this a few more times I think. First brewing I didn’t believe the suggested 3 minute brew time so brewed for 4.5 minutes and it was quite bitter. I reduced the brew time to 4 minutes and used one heaping tsp/cup as suggested and it was pretty blah. Tried a third brewing at 4 minutes with two rounded tsp/cup and it was better but still a very light assam. I didn’t really pick up malt from it – it seemed more bright flavored and fruity. I might try again at 4.5 minutes and see how it turns out.

One of TeaGschwendner’s best Assams. There are malty, fruity and some candy (yes, candy!) notes, which make this Assam interesting.

One of TeaGschwendner’s most expensive offerings, this malty Assam has a complex flavor that borders on the fruity and floral. It is, however, like most Assams, bitter and astringent.

Lighter, fruitier and sweeter than I expected. This is not a bad thing.

I love the balance of malt & fruitiness.