Sip down. The dry leaf is soft and fluffy. 2m steep w/ boiling water. The aroma coming out of the press is intoxicating. Ok, not literally, even though it has a bit of a hard drink aroma. It just smells really good. This is CTC which is typical of black tea but this is not typical black tea. This is very rich and malty. To my tastes this smooth tea has no sharp edges, meaning I don’t find it what I would call brisk, bitter, or astringent. It kind of reminds me of the one Yunnan I have had, with a hint of Darjeeling like wine notes without the bite, and baked yeasty bread, with a fruity aftertaste. My description does not do this justice. I find black tea promises so much and usually leaves me feeling meh. This is one of a handful of black teas that I think deliver on the promise. 2nd steep was as delicious as the first. Thank you again Ashmanra for this tea.