I had the 2016 version of this tea and am told by the vendor they are very similar, but that waiting a year for it to develop will change it and is preferred.
My notes will echo to BigDaddy’s. These leaves were skillfully processed and are from good terroir. The honey, orchid, and wild rose fragrance of the brewed leaves is pungent and intoxicating. It reminds me of what a proper, upper tier Dan Cong should be. I used my chaozhou pot, gaiwan, and glass tumbler at work—while the chaozhou clay enhances the purity and depth of the tea, the experience consistent across brewing devices.
Definitive and distinct structure in both texture, flavor, and depth — it coats the center, sides and back of the tongue revealing an interesting confluence of rock sugar, orchid florals, crisp peach, and complex wood and mineral notes presented together. There is real depth and presence that is felt in the sides of the tongue and back of the throat. This one is something to experience and won’t empty your wallet.
