Not quite what the name implies, these leaves aren’t actually pearls at all. They’re light whispy dark green leaves with plenty of visual character. The aroma is light and vegetal, smooth and savory. Hints of fresh spinach with the sweetness of steamed bok choy.
When you brew this tea, you get a clear yellow liquor with an aroma that’s pleasant but lacking in additional subtleties compared to its dry counterpart. This isn’t necessarily bad though. Predictability and consistency are the stalwarts of perfection.
The flavor is light and thin at first, but seems to gain weight through the sip. There’s no astringency here. Instead, you’re presented with a very smooth brew. Overtones of steamed bok choy take the forefront while hints of a buttery sweetness seem to pop in and out.
RE: your 1st sentence… sad day!