Silver Jade

I have been anxiously awaiting my turn to review this companies tea. Today, they finally worked their way to the front of the line. I love the way this is packaged. Others have mentioned it as well but it is a nice touch, making the experience seem more special.

Silver Jade is a white and green tea blend. When you open the bag that is obvious as there is white downy buds mixed with darker green leaf. It smells and looks fresh. Mostly I am picking up on the scent of white tea with just the lightest hint of citrus from oil of bergamot.

I steeped a large scoop for about 3 minutes in steaming water. The result is a golden green cup. The taste is mostly what I think is white peony. The green I can’t really separate out but it does add heft to the cup. It reminds me slightly of White Monkey. Late in the sip and far in the distant background is the faint touch of citrus. The more the cup cools the more the citrus is sensed, but it never reaches a point where you would think ‘bergamot’. As another review noted, it seems more a part of the tea than an addition.

It is slightly milky and sweet with notes of honey. They call this cup a smooth, mellow, fresh taste. I would agree. A nice refreshing take on white tea.

I still can’t get over the charming packaging for the promotional samples (see link for photos). The citron oil is light and natural,I really couldn’t tell it was added as opposed to an inherent flavor. It seems hard to conservatively use Bergamot without being undetectable.

It reminds me of some Bi Lo Chuns, with a savory tone from the white tea. This is light and perfect for re-hydrating and relaxing when sensitive to stimulae, especially after the superpowered rush of much matcha!
Full review and photos:
http://sabiisphere.teatra.de/?p=58

Thanks to The Tea Merchant for the chance to try this tea!
I was a bit concerned when I saw the recommended steep time and temperature, but I went ahead at 205 degrees for three minutes. It turned out well! This is a nicely balanced tea. I can taste both the green and white tea, and the bergamot is light, especially after the first steep. I wouldn’t use this tea when I’m craving Earl Grey but it is a good relaxing cup. Which really is why I like tea, sooo..I like it! :-)

This was one of several samples The Tea Merchant included with my order. Such a nice surprise!

I really enjoyed this one. It has a lovely, delicate, complex blend of scents and flavors. The bergamot is subtle—this tea is not trying to be an Earl Grey. It’s just enough to provide a hint of citrus. The teas themselves are a nice blend of sweet and vegetal, with subtly floral notes.