Arbee Ceramics

Gongfu!

Sipped on this while working from home this afternoon! I think it was the memories of warm and cozy caramelized orchard fruits that I remembered from past sessions with this tea that were calling out to me today, and this stunning Thai oolong delivered. Though it tastes a steep or two to settle into its own, this gorgeous amber coloured liquor has a soothing mix of poached pear, quince jam, and caramelized baked apple notes with subtle cinnamon, nutmeg, and the spice undertones. Very, very smooth with a medium body and a finish that tastes of rich, dark woods and incense. So fragrant and honestly very forgiving while steeping, which is kind of the best case scenario for a work from home tea. I was able to stretch this session out and enjoy it throughout most of the afternoon!

Tea Photos: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5jhU-OumQ9/?img_index=1

Song Pairing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkrFCQrK0wo

Started my morning with a lovely session of Ruby Oolong in a stunning new teapot!! I’ve wanted a solid red teapot for years, but up until now I just haven’t found one in the right capacity with a shape and finish that’s appealed to me. This one really just took my breath away – the shape is unlike anything else in my collection and the rich red colour and semi-matte finish just pops!! I have several ceramic pieces from Robin, including multiple pots, a gaiwan, and a chawan, but this is the first I’ve purchased since he relocated to Thailand over a year ago. His work has always been beautiful, but the refinement to his craftsmanship does not go unnoticed; everything is sleek, perfectly symmetrical, and the lid fit is incredible!!

The tea was included as a free sample with my order, so thank you for the inclusion!! Definitely very thoughtful to include a Ruby Oolong for a beautiful Ruby teapot! It has a wonderfully cozy, medium body with warming notes of cinnamon, raisins, freshly baked bread, poached apples and Quince, incense, and exotic woods. Really lovely; and it was nice to get to take this pot for its first spin with a tea carried by the same vendor!

Tea Photos: https://www.instagram.com/p/CrRGsCFOgYV/

Song Pairing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD0_hhLpTes