With Steepster’s recent update wonkiness, I decided to stop trying new teas and return to some comforting classics. Now that Steepster appears to be back to normal, I’m happy to return too! I apologize for my absence but, man, I’m glad all those bugs are finally gone! It was just too much for me to handle at the time.
Now I have a lot of catching up to do on everyone’s notes! Please don’t feel neglected if I haven’t gotten to you yet. And feel free to write a comment here to remind me. Ever since reaching over 100 followers, it’s been steadily harder to keep up with everyone. But I promise I do love you all. :)
ON TO THE TEA!
Assam is hit or miss for me. I haven’t quite figured out why. But some assam varieties I’ve had tasted like dirty diapers. Well, this is not that! (Thank goodness). This assam is a hit! The dry leaf aroma is vanilla-y and floral. The brewed tea aroma is strongly vanilla.
The taste sans additions is mostly vanilla and a smooth black base. The caramel comes in with the aftertaste. With a bit of Truvia added, more of the caramel buttery sweetness comes through sooner. The vanilla is still nice and strong and in the forefront, but now I get a nice side helping of caramel too.
I thought this base was going to be really assertive and require milk, so this smooth calmness is a nice surprise. I prefer this tea sweetened, although it is quite enjoyable plain too. I just have an insatiable sweet tooth. ;) I suspect most people would enjoy this tea best sans additions.
Mmmm, this is just sooo good! It is very cleverly and masterfully flavored by Stacy. The re-steep for 5.5 minutes was just as flavorful and delicious as the first. Thank you very much to JustJames for providing me with a very generous sample! This could be my new favorite vanilla black! :D
mmmm love this one still!
Dirty diapers! That’s a new one for me. I’ll try not to think about that whenever I drink Assam.
LOL! It’s been a rare occurrence but never a pleasant one.