I’ve been sampling various teas today, but this one puts them in their place. So many good qualities I don’t know where to start! The dry leaves have an enticing floral scent which becomes more pronounced after the rinse. Initial steeps have an intense honeysuckle sweetness and notes of arugula, pistachio, and mustard greens. This one is very active in the mouth—-I noticed an interesting peppery spiciness. Very nice mouthfeel, lasting huigan, and body feel that continues through the steeps.
Its flavor profile reminds me of the 2015 YS Huang Shan Gu Shu, but I picked up some key differences. Structurally, the Da Qing has more up-front qi that moves upwards to my head whereas the Huang Shan’s qi settles and moves down to my core. Da Qing has more peppery spice whereas the Huang Shan is cooling/numbing and possesses more body, as well.
My cheeks feel flushed and my body is relaxed…almost to the point of feeling indifferent about the pile of work due tomorrow night. Almost.
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I liked both these gu shu as well. Really nice stuff isnt it
It’s interesting to compare these two teas. I would purchase a cake had I not already grabbed a few HS cakes prior to trying the sample, but I think I made the right choice. Beyond taste, the underlying characteristics of the HS are more suited to my tastes.
Nice review. I agree with your comparison.. I also opted for the HS but am quite fond of both. Had more of a stable base/body.
Huang Shan was eye-opening for me… I don’t look at the Da Qing with as much excitement or interest. Great review!
The HS and DQ both bring me to my happy place. Seriously, hats off to Scott for his pressings. They cover a wide geographic range and are by far the best value/$. He really does go off the beaten path to find these delectable hidden treasures.
I liked both these gu shu as well. Really nice stuff isnt it
It’s interesting to compare these two teas. I would purchase a cake had I not already grabbed a few HS cakes prior to trying the sample, but I think I made the right choice. Beyond taste, the underlying characteristics of the HS are more suited to my tastes.
Nice review. I agree with your comparison.. I also opted for the HS but am quite fond of both. Had more of a stable base/body.
Huang Shan was eye-opening for me… I don’t look at the Da Qing with as much excitement or interest. Great review!
The HS and DQ both bring me to my happy place. Seriously, hats off to Scott for his pressings. They cover a wide geographic range and are by far the best value/$. He really does go off the beaten path to find these delectable hidden treasures.